Medical aesthetic products. Natura &Co takes The Body Shop to Kenya

THE WHAT? Natura &Co’s The Body Shop brand has entered the Kenyan market, according to a report published by Capital FM.

THE DETAILS The ethical beauty brand cut the ribbon on its first store in Nairobi’s Village Market via franchisee The Mask Retailers and unveiled plans to launch an e-commerce platform later this year.

THE WHY? The Body Shop EMEA & LatAm Franchise Business Director, Sarah Jackson, told Capital FM, “The Kenyan consumer deeply cares about how ethically and socially conscious a business is across its entire value chain and also value for their money. The Body Shop is bringing the consumer more than 800 products that meet their need for high-quality, naturally inspired skin care, hair care and make-up, produced ethically and sustainably.”

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.