Writers: Konstantin Tumanov, Ignacio Louzan
The skin is the largest organ of the human body, serving as a protective barrier between us and the world. Yet, in this curious society of ours the skin came to represent much more than its strict biological functions. As noted by Frank Watanabe, President & CEO at Arcutis Biotherapeutics, 'The skin, being a 'calling card' to the world, plays a crucial role in our social interactions and self-esteem.' The regulation and upkeep of important biological functions and the quest for aesthetics coexist in this area, rendering dermatology a very particular field. The market dynamics are equally compelling. According to Almirall, 'The market for dermatology in Europe and the US combined has grown to $47 billion, growing at a double-digit rate,' told us Carlos Gallardo, Chairman & CEO.
Our success in addressing significant challenges in rare diseases not only showcases our commitment to making a difference in patients' lives but also sets the stage for future breakthroughs. Matthew B. Klein, CEO, PTC Therapeutics
A notable example of innovation in the field is that of Dermavant's VTAMA cream, the first non-steroid cream on the market, which targets the underlying mechanisms of plaque psoriasis - a chronic autoimmune condition characterized by raised, red patches covered with a silvery white buildup of dead skin cells. This cream, acting as an aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) agonist, fosters skin homeostasis by downregulating inflammatory mediators, without any of the negative side-effects that often come alongside classic steroidal creams. Dermavant notes the significant adoption of VTAMA, with 'just under 14,000 unique prescribers and over 300,000 units sold within the first 20 months.'Arcutis also participates in the fight against psoriasis: 'our lead product, ZORYVE (roflumilast) cream, is suitable for chronic use, and is specifically approved by the FDA for sensitive skin areas.' These newer treatments promise to address the severity of the symptoms that affect patients' quality of life.
Anti-aging solutions have also become a prominent trend across the lifesciences, spanning from supplements and nutrition to dermatology. Allergan Aesthetics is pushing the trend further, with 'products that contribute to this broader movement by focusing on local tissue aging, offering treatments that restore tissue function or create a more youthful appearance at the site of treatment.' Darin J. Messina, Ph.D., Senior Vice President,Aesthetics R&D, told us more about the science behind their approach: 'focusing on stem cells, biomaterials, and growth factors, we aim to restore tissue function through regenerative cues, enabling our body's stem cells to rebuild damaged tissues. This approach is pivotal in both aesthetic and therapeutic applications, showcasing our commitment to innovation in regenerative medicine.' Through the use of these regenerative use of stem cells and biomaterials, Messina claims that their ultimate mission 'is to empower confidence by evolving consumer perceptions from vanity towards quality of life and youthful aging.