Beiersdorf Nigeria has unveiled its latest skincare innovation, NIVEA UV Face Sunscreen, with a vibrant beachfront launch event in Lagos that brought together skincare enthusiasts, health experts, media personalities, and influencers. The product, specially formulated for African skin and designed to fit seamlessly into busy lifestyles, marks a significant step in addressing the growing concern around sun damage and skin health in Nigeria.
The event, held by the sea, created a perfect setting for a campaign centered around sun safety. Attendees enjoyed a mix of education and entertainment with interactive skincare stations, live music, dance performances, and wellness talks, all reinforcing the importance of sun protection in a hot climate like Nigeria’s.
Fiyin Toyo, Marketing Director for Central, East, and West Africa at Beiersdorf NIVEA, emphasized the urgent need to adopt daily sun protection practices, especially in tropical regions. “Nigeria is hot, and we’re exposed to the sun every single day,” Toyo said. “We’ve been seeing the statistics – more and more Black people are being diagnosed with skin cancer, melanoma, and other skin-related illnesses.”
She stressed that a widespread misconception exists that darker skin tones don’t need sunscreen, but the reality is quite the opposite. “We don’t protect our skin enough, and that’s why we’re seeing an increase in skin-related conditions. At Beiersdorf, we truly care about our consumers and want to help them live healthier, more protected lives. This new sunscreen is our way of showing that care.”
The NIVEA UV Face Sunscreen, she explained, was developed with the active Nigerian in mind, targeting men and women aged 25 to 45. “This group is constantly on the move—going to work, exercising outdoors, doing errands in the sun,” she noted. “If you don’t use sunscreen, you risk sunburn, hyperpigmentation, and premature aging. This sunscreen is light, absorbs quickly, and can be worn under makeup. It’s also very affordable.”
Wilson Okpani, a pharmacist and Medical Manager for Beiersdorf NIVEA in Central, East, and West Africa (CEWA), provided insights into the scientific and medical significance of daily sunscreen use. “The sun’s rays—especially UVA and UVB—can cause serious damage to your skin. Hyperpigmentation, sunburn, and even skin cancer are realities we need to start addressing, especially in Black communities,” Okpani stated.
He added, “Many people bleach their skin to ‘fix’ hyperpigmentation caused by the sun. But that wouldn’t be necessary if they protected their skin from the start. Sunscreen is your first line of defense.”
Okpani also dispelled myths that sunscreen is unnecessary indoors. “Even inside, sunlight penetrates through windows and affects your skin. You may not feel it, but it adds up over time,” he warned.
On usage during pregnancy, Okpani advised caution. “While sunscreen is safe for the general population, there is limited data on certain ingredients during pregnancy, so we advise pregnant women to consult their doctors before use.”
The NIVEA UV Face Sunscreen joins Beiersdorf’s broader skincare portfolio aimed at promoting healthier skin habits across the African continent. The brand continues to lead conversations on skin protection in environments where heat and UV exposure are high but awareness and usage of sunscreen remain low.
Industry watchers have praised the move, noting that sun protection is a critical but often overlooked aspect of skincare among Nigerians and Africans at large. With rising temperatures, increased outdoor activity, and growing skincare consciousness, the introduction of an affordable, accessible sunscreen product tailored for African consumers is timely and strategic.
As part of its outreach, NIVEA is expected to roll out nationwide educational campaigns in the coming months, partnering with dermatologists, pharmacists, and wellness influencers to further drive awareness on why sunscreen is not just for vacations—but for everyday life.
