KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 29 (Bernama) -- Guardian and Mannings today launched Clera Cera, a science-led dermatological skincare brand developed for Asian skin and designed for everyday use.
Co-developed with experts from Singapore's National Skin Centre (NSC), part of NHG Health, the brand aims to make dermatologist-developed skin barrier care more accessible through retail outlets.
DFI Retail Group Health and Beauty chief executive officer Curtis Liu said the launch marked a new chapter for guardian and Mannings, which were expanding beyond retailing health and wellness products to developing them with clinical expertise.
“Clera Cera brings dermatological expertise beyond clinical settings to shelves where customers already shop, at prices suited to everyday use.
“This is one of the ways we continue to make wellness more accessible, in line with our commitment to being our customers' Trusted Wellness Advisor,” he said in a statement today.
Clera Cera is the first dermatological skincare initiative under the long-term partnership between DFI Retail Group and NHG Health, announced in October 2025 to strengthen preventive care and widen access to everyday health and wellness solutions.
NHG Health Group Chairman Medical Board (Research) Professor Benjamin Seet said the collaboration would help translate clinical knowledge and research into practical healthcare solutions beyond hospitals and clinics.
“Skin health is only the starting point. Other areas, including elderly nutrition and home care, will also be explored to meet the needs of our ageing population,” he said.
Clera Cera was developed by a dermatology team led by Associate Professor Tey Hong Liang, alongside principal pharmacist Winnie Choo. Tey is ranked among the world's top two per cent of scientists by Stanford University and Elsevier.
The range features a Skin Barrier Resilience System designed to replenish, repair and soothe the skin. It combines Derma-Clera™, powered by Cynanchum Atratum (Bai Wei) botanical extract, with five skin-identical ceramides to help replenish essential skin lipids and support hydration and barrier strength.
Tey, who is also clinical director of the Centre for MedTech and Innovations at NHG Health and a senior consultant dermatologist at NSC, said pollution, hot and humid weather, frequent cleansing and harsh skincare products could weaken the skin's protective barrier over time.
“In our clinics, we often see this among patients with sensitive skin. The skin barrier relies on natural lipids such as ceramides and benefits from gentle, consistent care using lightweight formulations that are comfortable for daily use,” he said.
The brand was developed in response to environmental conditions affecting Asian skin, with research cited by the company indicating that its thinner outer layer may make it more vulnerable to irritants. About one in three people in Asia are reported to have sensitive skin
The formulations were shaped by feedback and usage tests involving more than 18,000 consumers in Hong Kong, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore and Vietnam. They are designed to address common concerns such as artificial fragrances and sticky textures, particularly in humid climates.
The nine-product range covers body and facial care, targeted serums and sun care. First launched in Singapore, Clera Cera is now available exclusively at guardian Health & Beauty stores and online in Malaysia, with prices starting at RM22.90.
-- BERNAMA