Oculus Innovative Sciences, Inc., a specialty pharmaceutical company that develops and markets solutions for the treatment of dermatological conditions and advanced tissue care, announced the issuance of two new CE Marks in Europe for Microcyn-based Lasercyn solution and hydrogel, formulations intended to moisten and clean skin following procedures such as laser skin resurfacing, surgical wounds, abrasions and for use in the debridement and moistening of cuts, abrasions and minor burns.

Lori Smith, senior vice president of marketing and sales for Oculus said, "The European laser market continues to grow robustly, especially for skin imperfections ranging from acne, wrinkles, sun damage, pigmentation, acne scarring, tattoo and hair removal. Lasercyn is our first product offering in this attractive market and should be a terrific alternative to outdated antiseptics and creams typically used following laser and light procedures."

Oculus is currently in discussions with potential European partners for the distribution of Lasercyn in Europe.

Laser skin resurfacing, also known as a laser peel, laser vaporization and lasabrasion, can reduce facial wrinkles, scars and blemishes. Newer laser technologies provide plastic surgeons with a new level of control in laser surfacing, permitting extreme precision, especially in delicate areas. The laser beam used in laser resurfacing will remove the outer layer of skin, called the epidermis. It simultaneously heats the underlying skin, called the dermis. This action works to stimulate growth of new collagen fibers. As the treated area heals, the new skin that forms is smoother and firmer.

Common side effects include redness of the skin, swelling of the treated area, and moderate irritation similar to the feeling produced by a mild sunburn. In rare cases involving laser skin resurfacing, side effects such as burning, scarring, or a change in the pigmentation of the skin have occurred.

According to the Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology Journal, medical and esthetic skin procedures have seen a steady surge within the last decade largely stemming from greater numbers of new skin cancer diagnoses and a higher demand for skin rejuvenation practices. In 2013 in the United States, dermatologic surgeons performed over 9.5 million treatments, an almost 22 per cent increase from the previous year, with a rising number of treatments involving skin resurfacing in the areas of laser/light/energy-based procedures (2.25 million), chemical peels (1.1 million), and microdermabrasion (974,000).