Medical aesthetic products. Unilever factories in China and Brazil awarded Lighthouse status

THE WHAT? Two of Unilever’s production facilities have been awarded Lighthouse statues by the World Economic Forum. The award recognises the factories’ use of technology to enhance productivity and efficiency as well as their environmental credentials.

THE DETAILS The Tianjin site in China and the Indaiatuba plant in Brazil have been singled out as benchmarks and replicable models for manufacturers of all sizes, across different geographies and industries. The UK-based FMCG manufacturer now has a Lighthouse across each of its business groups.

THE WHY? Reginaldo Ecclissato, Unilever’s Chief Business Operations Officer, reveals, “To be named a Lighthouse factory is one of the world’s most influential awards in the field of advanced manufacturing. It’s not only a professional endorsement but also means that we have advantages over our competitors in terms of better products and service. It will continue to help our business grow with digital-driven rapid response and deliver long-term value.”

Medical aesthetic products refer to a category of products used in the field of medical aesthetics, which combines medical practices with cosmetic procedures to improve the appearance of individuals. These products are typically used under the supervision of trained medical professionals such as dermatologists, plastic surgeons, or specialized nurses. They are distinct from over-the-counter cosmetics in that they often contain higher concentrations of active ingredients or require medical expertise for their application.

Examples of medical aesthetic products include:

• Dermal Fillers: Injectable substances used to restore volume, fill wrinkles, and enhance facial contours. These may include hyaluronic acid fillers like Juvederm or collagen-stimulating fillers like Sculptra.

• Botulinum Toxin (Botox): Injectable neurotoxins used to temporarily paralyze facial muscles, reducing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines caused by facial expressions.

• Chemical Peels: Solutions containing chemical exfoliants like glycolic acid, salicylic acid, or trichloroacetic acid, used to improve skin texture, treat acne scars, and reduce hyperpigmentation.

• Laser and Light Devices: Equipment used for various skin treatments, including hair removal, skin resurfacing, tattoo removal, and treatment of vascular and pigmented lesions.

• Prescription Skincare Products: Formulations containing active ingredients such as retinoids (e.g., tretinoin), hydroquinone, or prescription-strength antioxidants, designed to address specific dermatological concerns under medical supervision.

• Microneedling Devices: Devices that create tiny punctures in the skin to stimulate collagen production and improve skin texture and elasticity.

• Cosmeceuticals: High-quality skincare products that bridge the gap between cosmetics and pharmaceuticals, often containing biologically active ingredients with proven efficacy.