Medical aesthetic products. Univar acquires ChemSol; expands presence in Central America

THE WHAT? Univar Solutions has announced the acquisition of ChemSol Group. The ingredients and specialty distributor operates in Costa Rica, Guatemala, El Salvador, Panama and Honduras.

THE DETAILS Terms of the transaction were not disclosed. Ciro Guerra, Founder and General Director of ChemSol Group, said: “We are excited to join Univar Solutions and provide our customers and suppliers with access to more products, capabilities, and digital innovation that will help their businesses grow. Univar Solutions shares many of the values that are central to ChemSol’s culture and strategy, including a commitment to collaboration, innovation, and a deep respect for teamwork, making it a seamless fit for our commercial partners and the perfect place for our team to continue growing their skills and careers.”THE WHY? The acquisition of ChemSol will enhance the Company’s geographic footprint in the growing Central American region, as well as its formulation and commercial offering across a wide array of key growth markets. As Nick Powell, President of Global Ingredients & Specialties for Univar Solutions, noted, “The ChemSol business strengthens both our Ingredients and Specialties portfolio and our geographic reach, further enhancing Univar Solutions position as a strategic partner of choice to our suppliers and customers. We’re thrilled to help Central American customers solve some of their toughest challenges and stay ahead of industry-specific trends and regulatory changes by tapping into our continuous innovation, sustainable solutions, and global network of formulation and technical expertise, and commercial support.”

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.