Medical aesthetic products. Sephora calls off retail partnership with Reliance

THE WHAT? Sephora has reportedly called off a retail partnership with Reliance Retail instead continuing its allegiance with Arvind Fashions, according to a report by Mint. 

THE DETAILS The Sephora-Reliance tie-in was first reported in September last year, with Reliance said to be in advanced talks to acquire the master franchise rights for LVMH-owned brand. 

Had the deal gone through, it would give Reliance a bigger foothold in the Indian domestic premium beauty market. 

THE WHY? The Indian domestic market is growing apace, with brands vying to take a slice of the pie. While the partnership with Sephora has allegedly fallen through, Reliance is proceeding with its own multi-brand format under the Tira brand. 

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.