Bayer’s Consumer Health Division has launched Bepanthen, a globally recognised skincare brand, in India. The launch coincides with findings from the 2024 Bepanthen Survey on Dry Skin, conducted by Ipsos across seven cities in India, revealing a high prevalence of dry skin conditions and a significant knowledge gap among patients regarding management of these conditions.
The survey indicates that 82 per cent of dermatologists agree patients tend to dismiss recurrent dry skin as “just dry skin,” without realising there may be an underlying skin condition. The findings underscore the need for better awareness of skin health, with 93 per cent of dermatologists acknowledging a knowledge gap among adults on how to manage recurrent dry skin effectively.
According to the survey, 9 out of 10 dermatologists believe that there is a lack of understanding about the causes and management of dry skin. It also reveals that nearly one-third of patients visiting dermatologists suffer from recurrent dryness. Many patients tend to use general moisturisers or home remedies before seeking professional advice.
Sandeep Verma, Country Head for India, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka at Bayer’s Consumer Health Division, said, “What is interesting to note in the 2024 Bepanthen Survey on Dry Skin, is sometimes people cannot distinguish between just dry skin and chronic dry skin, even though some of them look up the internet for more information. We at Bayer aim to bridge this knowledge gap, and aid people in understanding when and how they can seek help. Bepanthen products go beyond just moisturising, they are designed to enhance the quality of life for individuals who often overlook their skin health. Bepanthen’s entry into India marks a significant step in our mission to provide premium science-backed skincare solutions.”
Bepanthen’s product range, now available in India, includes specialised moisturisers and cleansers designed for both face and body, catering to the needs of dry, irritated, and sensitive skin. The products are fragrance-free and paraben-free, and contain Pro-Vitamin B5 and Prebiotics. These formulations are designed to not only provide immediate relief but also support long-term skin health by aiding skin regeneration.
Dr Ratnapal Shah, Senior Dermatologist, MBBS DVD, stated, “The clinical efficacy of Bepanthen range in managing eczema and dermatitis is highly significant. Effectively addressing these issues is crucial for overall skin health. Many patients are unaware of the importance of proper care for dry and irritated skin, which often worsens these conditions. Understanding how to soothe and protect the skin can help reduce flare-ups and maintain long-term skin wellness.”
Bepanthen’s medicated moisturisers are clinically proven to be as effective as 1 per cent hydrocortisone in managing atopic eczema and dermatitis-prone skin. The survey also reveals that 86 per cent of dermatologists recommend combining medicated moisturisers with body and face washes to offer comprehensive care for sensitive skin. Furthermore, 80 per cent of dermatologists prefer prescribing cortisone-free formulations for patients with eczema-prone skin.
The Bepanthen survey provided additional insights into dry skin conditions in India. Dermatologists reported that almost one in two Indians (47 per cent) suffer from dry skin, and 30 per cent of those who visit dermatologists are seeking treatment for dry skin-related issues. Moreover, 32 per cent of these patients have recurrent dry, irritated, or sensitive skin. The survey also found that 82 per cent of patients experience anxiety about going out in public due to skin concerns, and over 50 per cent of dermatologists observed that their patients become more irritable due to the physical distress caused by dry skin.
Bepanthen, with 75 years of global expertise and backed by 11 clinical studies, is launched in India with a range of four products. These include a daily moisturising cream, gentle cleansers for body and face, and an itch relief cream, all designed for effective management of dry skin.