The Country Manager, Beiersdorf Nigeria, Oladele Adeyole, has emphasised the urgent need for scientifically proven skincare solutions in Nigeria, warning that unregulated bleaching products pose serious danger to users.
He recalled that NAFDAC had in 2021 warned on the dangers of 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,” he said.
Adeyole spoke when Beiersdorf, a globally renowned skincare company and maker of NIVEA, officially introduced to the Nigerian market its life-changing dermatological skincare innovation positioned to address hyperpigmentation, acne, dry skin and for sun protection called Eucerin.
He highlighted Eucerin’s rich dermatological heritage and its commitment to efficacy and safety.
The event, which held at the Marriott Hotel in Lagos featured a scientific presentation by Prof Firas Al-Niaimi, a renowned UK-based Consultant Dermatologist and Laser Specialist, and panel discussions by skin care experts.
In his presentation, Al-Niaimi shared research-based insights on the emotional and physical impact of acne and skin concerns, underscoring Eucerin’s patient-centric approach.
Beiersdorf, he said, remains the only skincare brand in the world able to test human Tyrosinase, a key enzyme involved in melanin production, pointing out that inhibiting Tyrosinase helps treat hyperpigmentation from its root rather than relying on top-layer removal methods.
“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,” Prof. Al-Niaimi said.
Beiersdorf’s General Manager for Central, East and West Africa (CEWA), Mathieu Levasseur, reaffirmed the company’s long-standing presence in Nigeria through the NIVEA brand and expressed excitement about the launch of Eucerin.
He stated that even though Beiersdorf has been present in Nigeria for over 10 years with NIVEA, they are proud to introduce Eucerin, the first ever skincare brand in the world backed by over 120 years of medical science and research.
Regional Medical Manager for Africa and the Middle East, Nathalie Gemayel, took guests through Eucerin’s remarkable journey from 1882—when Paul C. Beiersdorf and three chemists pioneered dermatological skincare—to 2024 when it came into Nigeria, marking the brand’s latest breakthrough with Thiamidol, a revolutionary molecule proven to treat hyperpigmentation effectively.
“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,” she said.
Four facial products were officially launched at the event, namely: Even Pigment Perfector Dual Serum, Even Pigment Perfector Day & Night Cream for Hyperpigmentation, Demopurifyer Triple Effect Serum for Acne, and the sun protection ranges – Oil control sun gel cream; Pigment Control Sun Fluid and Photo-Aging Sun Fluid – For Oily prone Skin, Pigmented skin and anti-age.
These Eucerin products had already been introduced in Nigeria for a year, allowing some guests to share their first-hand experiences and testifying to the remarkable results they achieved using the Eucerin range.
The panel discussion led by Al-Niaimi, featured Prof. Ayesha Akinkugbe, Dr. Cynthia Ebie, and Dr. Omatighene Enovo Obaro.
The panellists explored product application, dosage, effectiveness, and the economic advantages for patients. They highlighted Thiamidol, the key ingredient in the launched Eucerin ranges, as the best human Tyrosinase inhibitor out of over 50,000 compounds tested.
Dignitaries and industry stakeholders present included Prof. 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, Prof. Adebola Ogunbiyi, Prof. Olusola Ayanlowo, Dr. Olakunle Odusote, and Pharm. Josephine Eyinma, CEO/Founder, NETT Pharmacy.
The event also saw the participation of numerous skincare doctors, enthusiasts, aestheticians, dermatologists, e-commerce professionals, and pharmacists.
