Medical aesthetic products. Unilever Nigeria to pull out of home care, skin cleansing categories

THE WHAT? Unilever Nigeria has announced that it is to exit the home care and skin cleansing markets by the end of the year, according to a report published by the Voice of Nigeria, quoting a regulatory filing.

THE DETAILS The move is part of a repurposing of the Dove manufacturer’s portfolio. Unilever said it would be ushering in measures to digitise and simplify processes and focusing more on business continuity measures, reducing its exposure to devaluation and currency liquidity.

THE WHY? The Nigerian arm of the FMCG manufacturer said it was changing its business model to accelerate growth and better meet the needs of shoppers, shareholders and staff, per The Voice of Nigeria.

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.