Aesthetics industry highlights growth, urges stronger regulation

Beneath the polished surface of innovation and global ambition, The Aesthetics Show Lagos 2026 has underscored the need for stronger regulation, training, and oversight in Nigeria’s aesthetics industry. At the centre of the industry’s forward push is Freda Edewor Francis, Executive Director of Medizone, whose prominence at the summit reflects the opportunities shaping the sector. […]

Beneath the polished surface of innovation and global ambition, The Aesthetics Show Lagos 2026 has underscored the need for stronger regulation, training, and oversight in Nigeria’s aesthetics industry.

At the centre of the industry’s forward push is Freda Edewor Francis, Executive Director of Medizone, whose prominence at the summit reflects the opportunities shaping the sector. Alongside other stakeholders, she is championing access to cutting-edge, non-invasive technologies, while conversations continue around the systems required to support their safe and effective use.

The Advanced Aesthetic Technology Symposium, which convened global manufacturers, local practitioners, and investors, was positioned as a milestone for Nigeria’s entry into high-end cosmetic medicine. Speakers at the event emphasised the importance of ensuring that institutional capacity keeps pace with industry growth.

“Growth without governance is a risk,” warned Hamza Arisekola Alao, in what he described as a call for balanced development within the sector.

While he praised Edewor Francis as representing world-class standards, he also highlighted the need for continued development of regulatory and enforcement frameworks as the industry expands.

Nigeria’s aesthetics market has grown significantly in recent years, driven by social media trends, rising middle-class spending, and increasing demand for non-invasive cosmetic procedures. However, stakeholders note that the regulatory architecture governing aesthetic practice is still evolving, with roles shared among health authorities and professional bodies.

This perspective was echoed by Felix Avajah, Founder and Chairman of the Association of Aesthetics and Spa Practitioners in Nigeria, who noted the importance of strengthening both technology adoption and knowledge systems.

“We are behind the aesthetics and spa trend seen globally,” Avajah said. “The world has moved far ahead with new technologies driven by artificial intelligence and advanced systems. Our challenge is not just access, but understanding and proper application.”

His remarks reflect broader discussions within the industry on the need for consistent training pathways and clearer certification standards. While symposium organisers emphasised education and capacity building, stakeholders noted the importance of aligning such initiatives with widely accepted standards.

The event featured demonstrations of emerging technologies, including oxygen-based skin therapies and other non-invasive treatments designed to complement or, in some cases, reduce the need for surgical procedures. Experts at the symposium emphasised that proper training and adherence to best practices are essential to ensure safe outcomes.

International participants highlighted Nigeria’s commercial potential, citing its large population, climate-driven skincare needs, and growing consumer awareness. They also emphasised the importance of building strong institutional frameworks to support sustainable growth.

For Edewor Francis, the focus remains on advancing innovation while supporting professional standards within the industry. Her leadership role places her among stakeholders contributing to ongoing conversations around both growth and structure.

The event, regarded as Nigeria’s first high-level symposium dedicated to advanced aesthetic technologies, brought together a cross-section of global and local experts, including Ravraj Sinha of Aesthetics Africa, Benjamin White of Accaro Medical, Dr Pranav Pancholi of Sofwave Medical, and international clinical trainer Brooke Taylor.