Medical aesthetic products. Unilever invests €20 million in new Ukraine factory

THE WHAT? Unilever has announced that it will invest €20 million in a new production facility in the Kyiv region of Ukraine. Construction is due to start this year and the plant is slated to open by 2024.

THE DETAILS The new factory will create some 100 jobs manufacturing personal care products including shampoos and shower gels for brands such as Dove, Axe, TRESemme and Clear. Built to the highest environmental standards, the hub will initially supply the local market but has potential to export to European markets in the future.

THE WHY? Unilever said that the plant would support its growing business and demonstrate its long-term commitment to the country. Vasyl Bovdilov, General Manager, Unilever Ukraine, said, “This investment shows our long-term commitment to the country and its people, including our employees, customers and partners. It is also a fitting way to mark the 30th anniversary of our business in Ukraine, which we will celebrate later this year.”

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.