Patented pH control behind efficacy of new hand balm

Singapore-based Hyphens Pharma International Limited, together with its subsidiaries has introduced Ceradan^® Advanced Hand Balm, the new addition to the company's line for atopic dermatitis (eczema).

Ceradan^® Advanced Hand Balm is the first and only hand balm with patented active pH control technology^[1], specifically designed for hand eczema. The product was developed with the Agency for Science, Technology, and Research (A*STAR).

Hand eczema, characterized by elevated skin pH and a compromised skin barrier, leaves hands susceptible to inflammation caused by external irritants. The issue is prevalent among healthcare workers, with 38%^[2] affected, compared to 9%^[3] of the general population, largely due to frequent hand washing. Ceradan^® Advanced Hand Balm addresses these key challenges of hand eczema by sustainably lowering the skin pH, leveraging its patented active pH control technology¹. This innovative feature is crucial for managing hand eczema, as skin pH is integral to maintaining skin barrier homeostasis, antimicrobial defense, and controlling inflammation and itch^[4].

Clinical testing has also shown significant improvements in skin ceramide content after applying Ceradan^® Advanced Hand Balm¹, as its optimal 3:1:1 ceramide-dominant ratio of essential skin lipids helps to rebuild the skin barrier. This is especially important to alleviating hand eczema sufferers' physical discomfort, as their symptoms range from dryness and itching to more severe manifestations like vesicles, blistering lesions, fissures, and bleeding.

"The launch of the Ceradan^® Advanced Hand Balm marks a significant milestone in our mission to provide effective, science-backed solutions for skin health. Recognizing the unique needs of healthcare professionals, it offers targeted relief and lasting protection for hand eczema, empowering them to gain control over their symptoms and regain a better quality of life," said Lim See Wah, Executive Chairman and CEO of Hyphens Pharma.

A*STAR contributed to the research and development of the Advanced Hand Balm by formulating the product and conducting stability tests to ensure it met quality standards for broader application. Following this, they scaled up production and provided the technology transfer and manufacturing protocol to support the transition to commercial manufacturing. A*STAR scientists also assessed the balm's effectiveness, evaluating its impact on skin health by measuring hydration and other key indicators like ceramides.

"Our research partnership with Hyphens Pharma showcases A*STAR's commitment to supporting enterprise growth in Singapore's innovation-driven economy. Through translational research collaborations and intellectual property licensing, we work closely with industry partners to turn scientific advancements into innovative products, solutions and services, driving economic impact for Singapore." said Mr Lim Li-Wei, Executive Director of Innovation & Enterprise, A*STAR.

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^[1] Hyphens. Data on File