American Academy of Dermatology Recognizes Merz Pharmaceuticals

MEDERMA(R) CREAM PLUS SPF 30: First Scar Product to Receive AAD SEAL OF RECOGNITION(R)

GREENSBORO, N.C., May 28 /PRNewswire/ — The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) has honored Merz Pharmaceuticals with its first-ever recognition of a scar product for its sun-protection benefit. The AAD SEAL OF RECOGNITION(R) recognizes over-the-counter products for their sun-protection benefit based on review of independent testing results by an independent scientist and a panel of dermatologists to verify that the products meet stringent, evidence-based sun-protection criteria. Mederma(R) Cream plus SPF 30 is the first scar product to receive this distinction.(1)

According to the AAD, sun exposure is the most preventable risk factor for all skin cancers, including melanoma, and is primarily responsible for premature aging.

“Public health education is the first line of defense against skin cancer,” said dermatologist David M. Pariser, M.D., president of the AAD. “The AAD SEAL OF RECOGNITION(R), awarded only to those products that meet stringent, evidence-based scientific criteria for sun protection, helps raise public awareness of the dangers of unprotected sun exposure. Scars are particularly sensitive to the sun’s harmful ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet B (UVB) rays which can worsen the appearance of the scar. To help minimize the appearance of scars, it is imperative to protect the skin and apply sunscreen. The AAD recognizes that proper and regular use of broad-spectrum (UVA/UVB) protection sunscreens with Sun Protection Factor (SPF) 15 or higher, along with wearing sun-protective clothing and seeking shade, will help protect against sunburn and may reduce long-term damage to the skin caused by sun exposure.”

“Mederma(R) Cream plus SPF 30 is the only scar product with SPF 30 that can help reduce the appearance of scars and protect them from sun exposure,” said Mikael Svensson, Merz’ Vice President of Medical and Aesthetic Dermatology. “Mederma(R) Cream plus SPF 30 is effective on scars resulting from surgery, injury, burns, acne and stretch marks. As the #1 doctor-recommended brand for scars for 10 years, Mederma(R) is a product that delivers on its promises. It’s clinically proven to soften, smooth, and reduce the appearance of scars.”

Tips for scar management:

• Because scars are sensitive to sun, apply Mederma(R) Cream plus SPF 30 thirty minutes prior to heading outdoors, so the skin has a chance to absorb the protective ingredients. If outside, reapply every two hours, or after every significant sporting activity or water submersion.(2)
• Pressure bandages and massages can flatten some scars if used on a regular basis for several months.(3)
• If cosmetics are applied correctly, they can be very effective at covering up scars. The correct make-up will improve the appearance while nature completes the healing process.(4)

About Mederma(R)

The Mederma(R) family of products, including Mederma(R) Gel, Mederma(R) for Kids, and Mederma(R) Cream plus SPF 30, has a long tradition of efficacy. Mederma(R) Cream plus SPF 30 is formulated to help reduce the appearance of scars and protect them from sun exposure. Mederma(R) Cream works for old and new scars resulting from surgery, injury, burns, acne and stretch marks. It’s from the #1 doctor- and pharmacist-recommended brand for scars. To learn more, visit www.mederma.com.

About the American Academy of Dermatology

Headquartered in Schaumburg, Ill., the American Academy of Dermatology (Academy), founded in 1938, is the largest, most influential, and most representative of all dermatologic associations. With a membership of more than 16,000 physicians worldwide, the Academy is committed to: advancing the diagnosis and medical, surgical and cosmetic treatment of the skin, hair and nails; advocating high standards in clinical practice, education, and research in dermatology; and supporting and enhancing patient care for a lifetime of healthier skin, hair and nails. The Academy does not endorse or recommend any products or services. The AAD SEAL OF RECOGNITION(R) recognizes over-the-counter products for their sun-protection benefit based on review of independent testing results by an independent scientist and a panel of dermatologists to verify that the products meet stringent, evidence-based sun-protection criteria. For more information, contact the Academy at 1-888-462-DERM (3376) or www.aad.org.

About Merz

Merz Pharmaceuticals, makers of Mederma(R) products, is a specialty pharmaceutical company dedicated to addressing unmet medical need with innovative health care solutions that improve self-esteem and quality of life. Merz distributes prescription Naftin(R) (naftifine HCl 1%) Cream and Gel and several non-prescription products, including Mederma(R), the #1 doctor- and pharmacist-recommended brand for scars; Mederma(R) Cream plus SPF 30, formulated with SPF to help protect scars from sun exposure; Mederma(R) for Kids(TM), the #1 pediatrician-recommended product for children’s scars; Aqua Glycolic(R), a dermatologist-recommended alpha hydroxy acid-based (AHA) skin care system; and Appearex(R), the #1 dermatologist-recommended product for strengthening nails. Merz is known worldwide for its development of original compounds and formulations sold to medical professionals and consumers in over 90 countries. To learn more, visit www.merzusa.com.

    (1) http://www.aad.org/Public/sun/seal/products.html
    (2) http://www.fda.gov/cdrh/tanning/sunprotection.html
    (3) http://www.aad.org/public/publications/pamphlets/cosmetic_scar.html
    (4) http://www.aad.org/public/publications/pamphlets/cosmetic_scar.html

SOURCE Merz Pharmaceuticals