A Calibre of Its Own
First established in 1908, Merz Aesthetics® continues on a passionate quest to inspire confidence among all Filipinos
The world of beauty and aesthetics is getting more and more competitive. As fashions, lifestyles and even standards of what’s ideal come to pass, those who want to stay in the game must learn to evolve and reinvent themselves while remaining most anchored to the needs and desires of keen consumers.
Following this pattern is the story of global industry leader Merz Aesthetics®. Its humble beginnings started in 1908 when Friedrich Merz, a 24-year-old chemist in Frankfurt, Germany, set out to create a specialised pharmaceutical company that would later be known as a pioneer in various healthcare fields. In the years to come, his eponymous marque would grow to spur several independently operating businesses in aesthetics, therapeutics and consumer care.
A family-owned institution since its inception, Merz Aesthetics® has made a name for itself across the globe through an incredibly personal and almost familial connection with clients, patients and employees. It boasts a profound presence across five continents; among its 24 locations, 12 are notably found in the Asia-Pacific region. Merz Regional Commercial Director Raymond Ong notes, “We work with our customers and our accounts to understand their needs and learn how we can share in their journeys. As we have always told them, their success is our success.”
“I believe what sets us apart is our commitment to patrons and partners,” adds Jorge Libanan, Merz Aesthetics® Philippines general manager. With this sound dedication manifested in many ways today, the brand has resolutely kick-started meaningful conversations and initiatives to educate consumers and increase acceptance of beauty treatments in the country.
INSIDE THE MERZ PORTFOLIO
Merz Aesthetics® is best known for the breakthrough technology of Ultherapy®. It is the only recognised Gold Standard1 with real-time visualisation for noninvasive skin lifting and tightening, and comes with a clearance from the United States Food and Drug Administration2 to boot. Noted worldwide for its trustworthy results with zero downtime, Ultherapy® continues to be a coveted staple in Merz Aesthetics®’s staunch partner clinics, which share the same value for upholding quality above all.
Beyond this, the renowned innovator boasts a diverse portfolio with tailored formulations that bolster its stature in the industry. This includes the Merz Aesthetics® Pure Anti-wrinkle treatment, the Merz Aesthetics® Easy Adapt Hyaluronic Acid Filler and the Merz Aesthetics® Versatile Calcium Hydroxyapatite Filler among many more.
In line with its goals to connect deeply with Filipinos and help them look, feel and live better, the company’s local arm also recently launched the Merz Aesthetics® Serendipity Journey® or the MASJ MYSELF mobile app. Designed to engage and educate consumers on aesthetic treatments today, the programme will also come with a range of exciting perks and rewards for avid enthusiasts of beauty and wellness.
Along with this ingenious creation, Merz Aesthetics® Philippines has also embarked on a
“We looked for a fitting ambassador, and it wasn’t difficult to choose Pia. She is the perfect person to drive and relate our message” —JORGE LIBANAN
campaign that explores the innate connection of physical and mental well-being, especially at a time that follows the isolating consequences of a global pandemic. To amplify the messaging of “All it takes is U”, the brand once again welcomed Miss Universe 2015 and seasoned star Pia Wurtzbach as the latest face of Ultherapy®. Through her candour and strength under the spotlight, the multi-hyphenate is a vision of grace and triumph, confidently beautiful inside and out.
“We looked for a fitting ambassador, and it wasn’t difficult to choose Pia. She is the perfect person to drive and relate our message,” shares Libanan. During an afternoon with distinguished media partners, Wurtzbach was joined onstage by psychiatrist Dr Ed Tolentino and board-certified dermatologist Dr Irene Gaile Robredo-Vitas. They detailed the importance of holistic self-care, which encompasses a healthy lifestlye and devoted me-time.
Evinced by the campaign, Merz Aesthetics® Philippines establishes itself as an institution that puts its patrons first, attuned to their concurrent needs beyond just offering high-quality treatments. Personified by a lustrous envoy, its mission to fuel the
confidence of countless Filipinos is sure to plough on with a magnified reach.
SHARING THE SPOTLIGHT
Relaying its commitment to partners in the field, on the other hand, Merz Aesthetics® Philippines also held its fourth annual Tala Awards last September 8, 2022. “The Philippines had one of the toughest experiences during the pandemic. Clinics were closed, and restrictions went on for months,” Ong illustrates. “But our team was very dedicated, which allowed us to recover our momentum since the end of last year.”
Graced by top dermatologists, medical physicians and aesthetic clinics from all over the country, the Tala Awards festively commemorates how Merz partakes in the journeys of its clientele. Libanan also says, “The [event] is meant to recognise our partners in the industry, especially the doctors as they are at the frontlines. It’s a time to celebrate after much time apart, and it’s a way to put our foot forward and show how we’re here for the long term.”
There were 7-Star awards given out to partner clinics, including Luminisce Holistic Skin Innovations for the Merz Aesthetics® Versatile Calcium Hydroxyapatite Filler and Toledo Medical Companies Inc for the Merz Aesthetics® Versatile Calcium Hydroxyapatite Filler and the Merz Aesthetics® Easy Adapt Hyaluronic Acid Filler. The Aivee Clinic then won five remarkable titles, including the prestigious Overall 7-Star award for Ultherapy®. “This clinic is a shining example of excellence amidst adversity,” Ong expressed as he welcomed the group onstage. “They are a true partner to Merz, and we are so grateful for their unwavering commitment to beauty and empowerment.”
As the world truly steps back into the light after years of uncertainty, Merz Aesthetics® gleams with noble distinction in the beauty and aesthetics sphere. With the strong foundations it laid out more than a century ago, the industry leader will continue to put its clientele at the heart of its practice, reliably purveying holistic care for all.
Ultherapy®, Merz Aesthetics® and Serendipity Journey® are registered trademarks of Merz group of companies.
1. Fabi, Sabrina G. et al. “Optimizing Patient Outcomes by Customizing Treatment With Microfocused Ultrasound With Visualization: Gold Standard Consensus Guidelines from an Expert Panel.” Journal of drugs in dermatology : JDD vol. 18,5 (2019): 426-432
2. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cdrh/cfdocs/cfpmn/pmn. cfm?ID=K180623
Merz Philippines Healthcare Inc is located at 10/F Ore Central Bldg, 9th Ave cor 31st St, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig. For more information, visit ultherapy.com and merzaesthetics.com.