L’Oréal looks to capture derma beauty market in India with debut of CeraVe

The dermocosmetics category in Asia-Pacific​ is rapidly evolving, as consumers increasingly seek clinically proven and dermatologist-recognised products.

According to Rami Itani, Director of L’Oréal Dermatological Beauty (L’Oréal India), a study conducted by the Indian Ministry of Health and Family Welfare showed that the country has one of the lowest ratios of dermatologists to consumers in the world.

To address this, L’Oréal recently introduced CeraVe to the Indian market, where it is now available in dermatology clinics, chemist stores, online pharmacies, and e-commerce platform Nykaa.

“We are excited to launch the L’Oréal dermatological beauty division in India, starting with CeraVe, one of the most trusted skin care brands globally. We believe that consumers deserve to have access to cosmetics that are effective and safe.​

“We have observed an increasing demand among consumers for skin care that is backed by science and recommended by healthcare professionals. With this launch, we aim to bridge the gap and meet the needs of consumers by providing expert dermatological care and skin care solutions with high efficacy,” ​said Itani.

As part of the launch, an event titled Skin Barrier Science - A Dermatological Summit​ was hosted by the brand in Mumbai.

It saw the attendance of renowned dermatologists, industry experts and partners from all over India and across the world, who highlighted the role of ceramides, a main feature of CeraVe’s products, in protecting the skin barrier and improving overall skin health.

Tried and tested​

Founded in 2005 and jointly developed with dermatologists, CeraVe can be found in over 40 countries worldwide. ​

Its line-up ranges from gentle cleansers to moisturisers and specialised treatments that cater to various skin concerns.

In a clinical study conducted in June 2023, its key product, Moisturising Cream, was tested on 120 Indian consumers. It was found to be safe and effective even for individuals with mild to moderate atopic dermatitis.

CeraVe claims to be the first and only brand to have a complete line of products containing three essential ceramides (1, 3, and 6-II), which are “skin-identical”, to lock in moisture and help restore the skin barrier function.

This is achieved by leveraging the patented Multivesicular Emulsion (MVE) technology, a delivery system that consists of multi-layer concentric spheres containing the ceramides and other moisturising ingredients, such as glycerin and hyaluronic acid.

Unlike the traditional quick-burst release found in most topical formulations, MVE spheres are similar to an onion with many layers that can be peeled away. Each layer slowly dissolves and the ingredients slowly released over time to offer long-lasting hydration.

L’Oréal’s dermatological beauty division is said to partner with global healthcare professionals, including leading dermatologists, to enhance product development, perform clinical research, and provide education and training.

Presently, its portfolio includes five brands, ranging from drugstore to premium ones — namely CeraVe, La Roche-Posay, Vichy Laboratoires, SkinCeuticals, and Skinbetter — Science, which aim to address “both pathological and aesthetic needs”.​