Sante Mernaud Pharmaceuticals Ltd, Bangalore, has teamed up with Merck Medication Familiale, France, an subsidiary of Merck KGA, Germany, to offer an innovative derma care product range for hyper-pigmentation, eczema and psoriasis.

The global brand offerings under the brand name 'Exfoliac' is for management of oily, blemished and acne prone skin. The brand 'Iklen Biopeeling' is for the management of photo-aging and hyper-pigmentation. The range under 'Saint Gervais' is for management of eczema and psoriasis.

Although these products, which are prescription-driven, are in the niche segment, the range will be much-sought-after, going by the increasing purchasing power and patient awareness on derma disorders in the country, stated Shiva P Hiremath, director, Sante Mernaud.

Indian derma-cosmeceutical segment is showing immense potential for growth with management of aging, hyper-pigmentation, photo-aging, acne, eczema and psoriasis on the rise, added Hiremath.

Visible trends in the market are prevention and control of skin disorders, allergies and inflammation arising out of pollution and stress. There is also a huge scope for products that help in the control of aging and help the maintain the skin texture.

To create awareness about the advanced and novel derma care preparations, Sante Mernaud Pharmaceuticals in association with Merck Medication Familiale organized Derma-Cosmeceutical Summit 2007 at Bangalore, New Delhi and Mumbai. Dr Yvon Gall, a leading clinical researcher and practicing dermatologist from France, made an informative presentation.

Dr Gall provided an overview on the contemporary techniques like photometry and echography which are methods to measure skin aging and texture. He also dealt with the environmental and free radical havoc on skin. The role of alpha hydroxy acids and its properties for the management of oily, blemished and acne prone skin were also addressed. The specialty of biopeeling to enhance the natural exfoliation process was also highlighted. The dermatologists were also invited to apply 'Iklen Biopeeling' during the summit, to experience the natural radiance on their skin, claimed by the product.

The summit in Bangalore was presided by Dr S Sacchidanand, professor and head, department of dermatology, Bangalore Medical College, and president elect Indian association of dermatologists, Venerologists, and Leprologists.

Sante Mernaud Foundation, a non-profit foundation was launched at the Bangalore event. The key objective of the Foundation is to bring in dermatological advances into India. With medical tourism coming of age in India, there is an urgent need to offer global brands in the Indian market, stated Monsieur Renaud Pradier, International Sales Director, Merck Medication Familiale, France.