The introduction, which took place on Friday, March 28th, marks a significant step towards addressing prevalent skin concerns such as hyperpigmentation, acne, dry skin, and the crucial need for effective sun protection in the region.
Eucerin, a globally recognized and dermatologist-recommended brand, bases its product development on rigorous scientific research aimed at sustaining and restoring skin health. The launch event, held at the Marriott Hotel in Lagos, provided a platform for expert insights, featuring a keynote presentation by Professor Firas Al-Niaimi, a distinguished UK-based Consultant Dermatologist and Laser Specialist, alongside engaging panel discussions with leading skincare professionals.
Oladele Adeyole, Country Manager for Beiersdorf Nigeria, underscored Eucerin's extensive dermatological heritage and its unwavering dedication to both efficacy and safety. He emphasized the pressing need for scientifically validated skincare solutions in Nigeria, referencing the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control's (NAFDAC) 2021 warning about the dangers associated with unregulated bleaching products. "About three years ago, NAFDAC raised an alarm on the prevalent issue of bleaching in Nigeria. People resort to bleaching as a solution to a beauty problem, but today, beauty is no longer linked only to healthcare and well-being—it has become a moral issue that needs to be addressed," Adeyole stated, highlighting the societal implications of unsafe skincare practices.
Mathieu Levasseur, Beiersdorf’s General Manager for Central, East and West Africa (CEWA), reiterated the company’s long-standing presence and commitment to Nigeria through the well-established NIVEA brand. He expressed enthusiasm for the introduction of Eucerin, noting its unique position in the skincare landscape. "Even though Beiersdorf has been present in Nigeria for over 10 years with NIVEA, we are proud to introduce Eucerin, the first ever skincare brand in the world backed by over 120 years of medical science and research," Levasseur affirmed, emphasizing the brand's robust scientific foundation.
Nathalie Gemayel, Regional Medical Manager for Africa and the Middle East, provided attendees with a comprehensive overview of Eucerin's remarkable journey, tracing its origins back to 1882 when Paul C. Beiersdorf and a team of chemists pioneered dermatological skincare. She highlighted the brand's continuous innovation, culminating in the recent introduction to Nigeria in 2024, marked by the groundbreaking Thiamidol molecule. This revolutionary ingredient has been scientifically proven to effectively treat hyperpigmentation. "We sell a product every two seconds globally because Beiersdorf solutions work. Our commitment to science, proof, and efficacy is unwavering, with over 1,000 clinical studies conducted in the last six years," Gemayel asserted, underscoring the brand's global success and rigorous testing standards.
A key highlight of the event was Professor Al-Niaimi’s insightful presentation, where he shared research-backed perspectives on the significant emotional and physical impact of acne and various skin concerns. He emphasized Eucerin’s patient-centric approach, highlighting Beiersdorf's unique capability to test human Tyrosinase, a crucial enzyme in melanin production. Professor Al-Niaimi explained that inhibiting Tyrosinase offers a more targeted approach to treating hyperpigmentation at its root, contrasting it with methods that solely focus on removing the skin's top layer.
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| L-R: Country Manager, Beiersdorf Nigeria, Oladele Adeyole; Regional Medical Manager, Africa & Middle East, Beiersdorf, Nathalie Gemayel; Consultant Dermatologist, UPTH & President, Nigerian Association of Dermatologists, Prof. Altraide Dandeson; Commercial Marketing Manager, Central, East & West Africa (CEWA), Beiersdorf, Victor Okafor; Consultant Dermatologist, LUTH & Vice President, Nigerian Association of Dermatologists, Dr. Ayesha Akinkugbe; General Manager, CEWA, Beiersdorf, Mathieu Levasseur, and United Kingdom’s award winning dermatologist and laser consultant, Prof. Firas Al Niami at the launch of Beiersdorf’s Eucerin in Ikeja, Lagos recently |
"This treatment offers a safer alternative to hydroquinone and preserves natural pigmentation without interfering with normal melanocytes or natural black skin pigment. Unlike traditional bleaching agents, it does not cause melanocyte toxicity or disrupt the skin’s natural balance. It is safe for long-term use – even during pregnancy – does not enter the bloodstream, and is targeted to treat only problem areas, making it a preferred choice among patients with Skin of Colour," Professor Al-Niaimi elaborated, emphasizing the safety and suitability of Eucerin products for diverse skin types.
During the launch, four key Eucerin facial product ranges were officially introduced: the Even Pigment Perfector Dual Serum and Even Pigment Perfector Day & Night Cream, specifically formulated for hyperpigmentation; the DermoPurifyer Triple Effect Serum designed to address acne; and a comprehensive sun protection line including the Oil Control Sun Gel Cream, Pigment Control Sun Fluid, and Photo-Aging Sun Fluid, catering to oily-prone, pigmented, and anti-aging needs, respectively. Notably, these Eucerin products had been available in Nigeria for a year prior to the official launch, allowing some attendees to share their positive first-hand experiences and attest to the effectiveness of the Eucerin range.
A panel discussion, expertly moderated by Professor Al-Niaimi, featured prominent dermatologists Professor Ayesha Akinkugbe, Dr. Cynthia Ebie, and Dr. Omatighene Enovo Obaro. The panelists delved into the practical aspects of product application, dosage, and effectiveness, as well as the potential economic benefits for patients. They particularly emphasized Thiamidol, the star ingredient in the newly launched Eucerin ranges, highlighting its superior efficacy as the best human Tyrosinase inhibitor among over 50,000 compounds tested.
The launch event garnered significant attention from key dignitaries and industry stakeholders, including Professor Dasetima Altraide, President of the Nigerian Association of Dermatologists (NAD), along with the association’s Vice President and Secretary. Also in attendance were the association’s immediate past secretary, Perpetua Ibekwe, esteemed dermatologists Professor Adebola Ogunbiyi and Professor Olusola Ayanlowo, Dr. Olakunle Odusote, and Pharm. Josephine Eyinma, CEO/Founder of NETT Pharmacy. The event also welcomed a wide array of skincare professionals, including doctors, enthusiasts, aestheticians, dermatologists, e-commerce experts, and pharmacists.
Eucerin's entry into the Nigerian market, driven by a strong commitment to research-based dermatological solutions, signifies a promising new chapter in safe and effective skincare tailored to the specific needs of African skin, offering a science-backed alternative to potentially harmful unregulated products.