KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 7 (Bernama) -- Bursa Malaysia’s benchmark index rebounded from earlier losses to close at its intraday high on Wednesday, gaining 0.27 per cent in late trading as buying interest returned to selected heavyweights. At 5 pm, the FTSE Bursa Malaysia KLCI (FBM KLCI) advanced 4.48 points to 1,676.83 from Tuesday’s close of 1,672.35. The benchmark index opened 0.88 of-a-point lower at 1,671.47 and subsequently hit a low of 1,665.94 during the mid-morning session before gaining momentum toward closing. On the broader market, losers led gainers by 565 to 512, while some 526 counters were unchanged, 1,046 untraded, and 10 suspended. Turnover improved to 2.73 billion units worth RM2.76 billion versus Tuesday’s 2.66 billion units worth RM2.76 billion. Dealers said that investors were cautious following geopolitical developments in Asia.
Deflationary pressure in China, which has already pushed down prices of cars and fast food, is now reshaping the country’s US$38 billion medical aesthetics market.
So-Young Pushes Prices to Record Lows
So-Young International Inc has launched 33 clinics across major cities, offering chemical peels for 149 yuan (US$21) and skin boosters for 399 yuan. The company says there is further room to cut costs, moving closer to South Korea — the benchmark for affordable cosmetic treatments.
Average spending per customer at So-Young clinics is about 2,000 yuan, far below the sector average of 6,500 yuan, according to CEO Xing Jin. “As prices approach Korean levels, convenience will keep more consumers at home for treatments,” he said.
Rising Competition from E-Commerce Players
The push could ignite a broader price war. JD.com Inc has already opened two cosmetic clinics in Beijing, undercutting rivals on certain procedures. Internet platforms such as Meituan and Douyin are also expanding into medical aesthetics, adding pressure on margins.
Quality Concerns and Consumer Skepticism
Despite aggressive pricing, questions remain over product quality and safety. So-Young sells the Chinese-made Loviselle filler at one-third of its recommended retail price, but some consumers remain cautious about ultracheap treatments. Distrust of locally made healthcare products persists, with many clients still seeking procedures in South Korea or premium domestic clinics.
Financial Strain and Growth Plans
So-Young has reported losses in three of the past four years and is expected to remain in the red through 2025, even as beauty-clinic revenue surged 426% in the second quarter. To sustain growth, the firm plans to expand to 50 clinics by year-end and to 1,000 within eight years, aiming to place outlets within 15 minutes’ reach in major commercial hubs.
Outlook
China’s medical aesthetics industry is entering a new phase of hyper-competition. While lower prices may draw more clients away from South Korea, the challenge for providers will be balancing affordability with quality — and doing so without eroding profitability.
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