L’Oreal amongst industry professionals at Merck's dermocosmetics forum

22-Feb-2013 - Last updated on 22-Feb-2013 at 11:26 GMT

The cosmetic giant was amongst industry professionals that gathered in Darmstadt this week to hear renowned scientists and specialists present current studies, innovative substances and market trends in the area of dermocosmetics.

The Forum organised by Merck, saw around 65 representatives from the cosmetic, pharmaceutical and chemical industries from France, Italy, Turkey, Russia and Venezuela gather to hear presentations on a variety of topics including current developments for specific skin problems, sun protection and anti-ageing strategies, as well as safety issues and legal requirements.

Scientific director Britta Klebon, who attended the forum on behalf of L’Oreal Germany, says she was surprised the topic of dermocosmetics could be looked at from so many different angles.

“I also particularly liked the fact that apart from the broad scope of topics there was enough time for special aspects such as the differentiation between dermocosmetics and medicinal products,” she said.

Meanwhile substance scout at Beiersdorf, Ute Breitenbach, felt the topics were very multifaceted, the mixture balanced. “We received an excellent range of specialist information on both products and services as well as the latest developments in the corresponding application areas.”

Presentations

Prof. Christian Surber of the Dermatological University Hospital Basel delivered a presentation entitled 'Effective sun protection (Not) just a question of the right formulation' whereby he explained the clinical and pharmaceutical requirements that an effective, safe sunscreen must meet – including the regulatory requirements placed on these products. In addition, he clarified persistent misunderstandings.

“Only comprehensive, consistent sun protection can prevent skin damage caused by UV radiation and thus skin cancers and premature skin aging,” he informed the professionals present.

Then Prof. Jürgen Lademann of Charité Berlin touched on assessing the effectiveness of radical scavengers, based on the concentration of antioxidants and free radicals in the skin. To which he concluded by explaining that; “The increased systemic intake of antioxidants increases their concentration while decreasing the number of free radicals."

Other specialists at the Forum also explained how polymers in semisolid formulations can increase the therapeutic effect of dermocosmetics. "Releasing the optimal amount of active ingredient at the right time is crucial." Merck's 'RonaCare antioxidant' was then presented as an example of effectively reducing sebum production in oily blemished skin whilst alleviating redness and inflammation.