Kenya’s skincare market has entered a new phase following the official launch of global dermo-cosmetic brands Eau Thermale Avène and Ducray, expanding access to dermatology-led skincare solutions tailored to diverse and sensitive skin types.
The two brands, owned by Pierre Fabre Laboratories, were unveiled amid growing awareness of skin health across East Africa, a trend that has accelerated demand for clinically tested, dermatologist-endorsed products.
Industry observers note that the dermo-cosmetics segment is now growing faster than the wider beauty market, driven by consumers seeking fragrance-safe formulations and pharmacy-led skincare backed by medical expertise.
“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, said the move reflects a broader shift in African consumer preferences toward medical-grade skincare.
“Our expansion into Kenya reflects the growing demand across Africa for dermatologist-endorsed skincare. We look forward to working closely with Kenya’s healthcare community to deliver solutions designed for high-sun, high-humidity environments,” he said.
The market entry is being supported through a regional partnership with Groupe Ethica. Rosemary Ayieko, Head of East Africa at Groupe Ethica, described the collaboration as timely, citing rising demand for science-backed skincare. “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,” she said. “This collaboration is set to strengthen the region’s dermo-cosmetic landscape, particularly for sensitive and melanin-rich skin.”
Data from the Kenya Association of Dermatologists (KAD) underscores the relevance of the brands’ entry. Acne and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) affect up to 46 per cent of young adults in urban East Africa, with heat, humidity, pollution and high UV exposure contributing to flare-ups.
Eczema, dryness and atopic dermatitis account for nearly a quarter of dermatology visits in the region, often linked to climate changes and the use of harsh or unsuitable skincare products.
KAD also reports that up to 60 per cent of pigmentation cases are sun-triggered, increasing the risk of uneven skin tone and premature ageing. Against this backdrop, the arrival of Pierre Fabre, one of the world’s leading dermo-cosmetic and pharmaceutical groups, is being viewed as a significant boost to Kenya’s skin-health ecosystem.
Speaking at the launch, Dr Roop Saini, a committee member of the Kenya Association of Dermatologists, said the timing was critical. “Across Kenya, we are seeing high rates of acne, eczema, pigmentation disorders and hair loss, many of which require long-term management,” he said.
“At the same time, cumulative sun exposure is driving a rise in UV-related skin conditions, highlighting the urgent need for accessible and effective photo-protection. The arrival of Avène and Ducray is therefore timely.”
Avène, which specialises in 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, with nearly a century of dermatological innovation, is bringing targeted treatments for acne, eczema, hyperpigmentation, hair loss and chronic scalp conditions, including Keracnyl, Dexyane, Melascreen and Neoptide.
The brands say Kenyan consumers can expect clinically validated skincare protocols tailored for melanin-rich and sensitive skin, alongside sunscreens formulated for hot and humid climates.
Avène and Ducray products are now available at leading pharmacies and approved medical retail partners across the country.