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Acne, a common skin condition in Kenya, is notably prevalent in both rural and urban regions.

A 2016 study by the International Journal of Dermatology found that approximately 11.2% of people in western Kenya suffer from acne, with urban adolescents experiencing rates between 28% and 38%. Contributing factors include pollution, high-glycemic diets, and strong equatorial sunlight, all of which worsen acne and leave lasting scars.

Dr. Roop Saini, a renowned Consultant Dermatologist and committee member of the Kenya Association of Dermatologists (KAD), highlights the increasing demand for dermatology-led skincare solutions in East Africa.

According to Dr. Saini, ingredients like thermal water and azelaic acid, which focus on strengthening the skin’s barrier, are particularly effective in the humid climate of East Africa.

These components not only address acne but also help with conditions like eczema and stubborn pigmentation marks without causing irritation.

Globally, acne affects about 9.4% of people, with a significant spike in cases among young adults aged 12 to 25, as reported by the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) study.

However, Kenya’s tropical climate and urban environmental stressors push the country’s acne rates higher, accounting for 10% to 30% of skin-related outpatient visits, according to the 2025 National Institutes of Health report.

A 2024 study conducted at Kiambu Level 5 Hospital examined 1,183 patients and found that eczema was the most common skin condition, affecting 25.5% of those surveyed.

Interestingly, many patients favored traditional skincare products like bar soaps and milking jelly over more conventional treatments. The same study revealed that up to 40% of clinical acne cases were complicated by hyperpigmentation caused by UV exposure and scarring.

Kenya’s skincare market is growing rapidly and is dominated by a variety of products, including face creams, moisturizers, sunscreens, body lotions, anti-aging serums, makeup removers, and more.

For individuals like 28-year-old Joyline Wairimu from Murang’a County, acne has been a persistent challenge for over seven years. Despite trying various over-the-counter products, the humid climate only worsened her condition, leaving behind visible acne scars.

Joyline shares her personal experience: “I often get asked about the dark spots on my face, which can be disheartening and impact my confidence. I struggled for years before finally finding products that worked for me.”

Her story is a common one for many Kenyans, with acne remaining a significant concern for youth and contributing to 11% to 38% of visits to dermatology clinics.

This surge in acne, eczema, and pigmentation issues has sparked a notable increase in demand for clinical skincare products, positioning Kenya as a pivotal market in East Africa for dermatological solutions.

According to Dr. Karimi Murage, Marketing Manager at Groupe Ethica, the skincare revolution is not only transforming the lives of consumers but also driving economic growth.

Groupe Ethica, the exclusive African partner of Pierre Fabre, a leading global dermo-cosmetic and pharmaceutical company, entered the East African market in November with their renowned brands Avène and Ducray.

The Kenyan skincare market is expected to reach USD 125 million by 2026, growing at a rapid annual rate of 11% by 2027. This growth is fueled by increasing disposable incomes, higher consumer awareness, better access to specialists, a wider range of affordable products, and supportive government policies. Kenya’s strategic location, growing middle class, and expanding dermatological healthcare sector bode well for continued growth in the dermo-cosmetics sector.

As more local and international players enter the market and consumer education improves, the outlook for Kenya’s skincare industry remains strong, with double-digit growth projected in the coming years.