Global dermo-cosmetic brands Eau Thermale Avène and Ducray have officially launched in Kenya, positioning the country as a key gateway for dermatologist-led skincare solutions in East Africa amid rising awareness of skin health.
Kenya’s skincare market has entered a new phase following the official launch of Eau Thermale Avène and Ducray, two globally recognised dermo-cosmetic brands owned by Pierre Fabre Laboratories. The entry marks a significant milestone for Kenya’s growing skin-health ecosystem and reflects shifting consumer preferences toward clinically tested, dermatologist-endorsed skincare.
The launch comes at a time of heightened skin health awareness across East Africa, with the dermo-cosmetics category growing faster than the broader beauty market. Consumers are increasingly seeking fragrance-safe, pharmacy-led products backed by clinical research, driving strong demand for medical-grade skincare solutions.
Kenya as a regional anchor market
Pierre Fabre Laboratories identified Kenya as a strategic entry point for East Africa, citing the country’s established dermatology community, mature pharmacy network, and increasingly informed consumers.
“Kenya is the anchor market for dermo-cosmetics in East Africa,” said Pierre Behnam, Director of International Strategic Partnerships at Pierre Fabre Laboratories. “Its strong dermatology community, established pharmacy network, and informed consumers make it an ideal gateway for scaling responsibly across the region.”
Fernando Junoy, International Head at Pierre Fabre Laboratories, added that the expansion reflects broader continental demand.
“Our expansion into Kenya reflects the growing demand across Africa for dermatologist-endorsed, medical-grade skincare. We look forward to working closely with Kenya’s healthcare community to deliver solutions designed for high-sun, high-humidity environments,” he said.
Addressing regional skin health challenges
According to the Kenya Association of Dermatologists (KAD), acne and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation affect up to 46 percent of young adults in urban East Africa. Environmental factors such as heat, humidity, pollution, and high UV exposure are major contributors to flare-ups.
Eczema, dryness, and atopic dermatitis account for nearly one-quarter of dermatology visits in the region, often worsened by climate changes and the widespread use of harsh or unsuitable skincare products. KAD further notes that up to 60 percent of pigmentation cases are sun-triggered, increasing the risk of uneven skin tone and premature ageing.
Dr. Roop Saini, a committee member of KAD, said the arrival of Avène and Ducray is timely given these challenges.
“Across Kenya, we are seeing high rates of acne, eczema, pigmentation disorders, and hair loss, many of which require long-term management,” Dr. Saini said. “Cumulative sun exposure is also driving a rise in UV-related skin conditions, highlighting the urgent need for accessible and effective photo-protection.”
Products tailored for local conditions
Avène, known globally for sensitive-skin care, is introducing products such as its Thermal Spring Water, Cleanance range for acne-prone skin, Cicalfate+ for skin repair, and Ultra Fluid SPF 50+ sunscreen designed for equatorial UV exposure.
Ducray brings nearly a century of dermatological innovation, offering targeted treatments for acne, eczema, hyperpigmentation, hair loss, and chronic scalp disorders. Its product lines include Keracnyl, Dexyane, Melascreen, and Neoptide for hair loss.
Together, the brands aim to deliver clinically validated skincare tailored for melanin-rich and sensitive skin, effective acne and pigmentation protocols, and sunscreens formulated for hot and humid climates.
Strategic partnership and market impact
Rosemary Ayieko, Head of East Africa at Groupe Ethica, described the partnership with Pierre Fabre as a major step for the region’s dermo-cosmetics market.
“Partnering with Pierre Fabre allows us to bring advanced, dermatologist-backed skincare to East African consumers at a time when demand for clinically tested pharmacy-led solutions is rapidly growing,” Ayieko said. “This collaboration is set to strengthen the region’s dermo-cosmetic landscape and deliver products tailored for sensitive and melanin-rich skin.”
The products are now available nationwide through leading pharmacies and approved medical retail partners, expanding access to dermatologist-endorsed skincare for Kenyan consumers.
