KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, June 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — With fewer than 200 trained dermatologists serving Malaysia’s 33 million people[1]—just one specialist for every 165,000 residents—qualified skin care is out of reach for many. This acute shortage fuels La Roche-Posay’s mission to bring dermatologist-approved skincare closer to those who need it.
The mission is already translating into action: La Roche-Posay recently spearheaded an outreach clinic in underserved Klang Valley communities, exposing Malaysia’s skin-health divide: many residents had never met a dermatologist and relied on home remedies to manage chronic skin conditions.
From severe cystic acne to occupational contact dermatitis and untreated childhood eczema, the findings underscore an urgent need for accessible care and education.
In response, La Roche-Posay donated RM 2 per product sold at Watsons Malaysia—raising RM 100,000 to seed long-term outreach programmes with the Malaysian Skin Foundation.
‘At La Roche-Posay, we know that healing skin has the power to change lives. For 50 years, we have been pioneering new breakthroughs to be at the service of people – from newborn babies to cancer patients and families living with chronic skin conditions. This RM 100,000 fund is our first step towards taking that science beyond clinic walls. Together, our mission is to improve the skin health for all Malaysians.’ Said Anissa Mokrani, General Manager, L’Oréal Dermatological Beauty (Malaysia & Singapore)
Led by dermatologists Dato’ Dr Noor Zalmy and Dr Nur Syazwin Sies, with support from brand advocate Hannah Delisha, the team gave residents their first experience of professional skincare – providing free consultations, personalised treatment plans, product donations and much-needed hope.
Patients spoke candidly about the toll of untreated conditions. ‘I’m awake most nights because the itch won’t let me sleep,’ said Fina, a contact-dermatitis sufferer. Farihih, battling cystic acne, added, ‘I avoid mirrors – I’ve lost confidence in my appearance.’
What the clinic revealed
- For many attendees, this was their first ever encounter with a dermatologist.
- Severe cystic acne and work-related contact dermatitis emerged as the most pressing skin concerns.
- Everyday habits can make a difference: dermatologists showed residents that simple steps – such as removing make-up before sleep and cleansing skin after a day of mask-wear – can prevent break-outs and calm irritation.
Beneficiaries received immediate diagnoses, care guidelines and La Roche-Posay starter kits, reinforcing the brand’s mission to democratise dermatological care.
The campaign was ceremoniously marked by the handover of funds from L’Oréal Malaysia and Watsons Malaysia to the Malaysian Skin Foundation – a boost that will enable MSF to advance its mission of making dermatological skincare accessible to all Malaysians.
