When did every dermatologist suddenly become a rock star?
The top ten things that matter most to derm marketers on Dec. 4, 2024: Dermavant’s AD Rx, Journey Medical's rosacea program, Galderma's prurigo nodularis Tx, earnings reports from LEO and Bausch
Welcome to the second-to-last 2024 edition of Dermatology.Business. With just 21 shopping days until Christmas, we bring you the latest biweekly scoop on news, trends, and insights from the world o’ commercial dermatology. In case you’re stuck, do you know what makes a perfect holiday present that everyone will welcome? A subscription to Dermatology.Business, of course. Give the people who matter most to you the priceless gift of skin care news.
1. State of Derm in 2025: Why every medical student wants to be the next Dr. Pimple Popper
A Wall Street Journal article (Nov. 19, 2024) highlights the growing appeal of dermatology as a medical specialty, noting its attractive work-life balance and lucrative opportunities. This public exposure could affect patients’ and aspiring doctors’ perceptions of the specialty.
Why it matters: The article’s portrayal of dermatology as a lifestyle-friendly, high-earning specialty could:
Intensify competition for residency spots
Shift public perception of dermatologists’ roles and value
Influence patient expectations and demand for cosmetic procedures
By the numbers
50% increase in dermatology residency applications over 5 years
Median annual salary: US$541,000 (vs. $258,000 for pediatricians)
71% of top-choice dermatology applicants are women, up from 63% two years ago
Between the lines
The article emphasizes cosmetic procedures and social media influence, potentially overshadowing medical dermatology’s importance
It highlights the field's lack of ethnic and class diversity, which affects patient care and research
The bottom line: While the article showcases dermatology’s appeal, it downplays the specialty’s medical significance and the rigorous training required, potentially affecting public perception and future recruitment efforts.
2. More about Derm in 2025: Why the celebrification-of-doctors trend should concern you
The same Wall Street Journal article highlights a growing trend of dermatologists leveraging their expertise and influence on social media platforms, potentially blurring ethical lines in the process:
Monetizing Influence
Dermatologists are increasingly acting as key opinion leaders on social media, with some:
Charging up to US$30,000 for sponsored posts promoting skin products
Building large followings on platforms like Instagram and TikTok
Using their medical credibility to launch personal skincare lines
Ethical Concerns
This trend raises several ethical red flags:
Potential conflicts of interest when recommending products
The blurring of professional boundaries between doctor and influencer roles
Risk of spreading misinformation or unverified claims
Regulatory Challenges
Professional organizations are grappling with this new landscape:
The American Academy of Dermatology is updating its social media guidelines
Current guidelines emphasize patient privacy, transparency, and disclosure of financial relationships
Some medical boards advise against commercial product endorsements
Implications for the Industry
For pharmaceutical and skincare companies:
Opportunity to reach consumers through trusted medical voices
Risk of backlash if partnerships are seen as compromising medical ethics
Need for clear guidelines on collaborations with healthcare professionals
This trend of dermatologists as influencers presents opportunities and ethical challenges for the skincare and pharmaceutical industries, potentially reshaping how products are marketed and perceived by consumers.
3. Even more: He's a Canadian dermatologist. He's a music legend. Meet Dr. Mike Rosenblum
An Ontario-born dermatology researcher and clinician at the University of California San Francisco, Dr. Michael Rosenblum, is showcasing the intersection of scientific expertise and musical artistry with the release of his first solo album.
The big picture: Rosenblum's musical journey, from teaching himself guitar to collaborating with industry legends, underscores the value of having creative outlets beyond one's core profession.
The deets
Rosenblum, 50, is a professor of dermatology known for his pioneering skin immunology research
He began playing guitar as an undergrad and has been writing and recording his music
His debut album, “Chasing the Sun,” features contributions from veteran musicians such as Jane Wiedlin of The Go-Go's
Driving the news
Rosenblum wrote and recorded much of the album during a yearlong sabbatical
He worked with producers who have collaborated with acclaimed artists such as Jackson Browne
The indie pop sound of “Chasing the Sun” represents a creative outlet distinct from Rosenblum's scientific work
Between the notes: Colleagues praise Rosenblum’s ability to “tell stories” through both science and music
What’s next
Rosenblum plans to continue his medical research and patient care while maintaining his musical pursuits
The album release show at San Francisco's Great Star Theater will allow fans to experience his dual talents
The bottom line: Rosenblum’s journey demonstrates how diverse creative outlets can complement and enrich one's primary professional focus.
4. Dermavant’s AD drug shows promising long-term clearance rates
Dermavant Sciences revealed new data showing its atopic dermatitis treatment allows patients to stay symptom-free for months after stopping treatment.
Why it matters: Atopic dermatitis affects ~29 million North Americans and 20% of children worldwide, with current treatments often requiring continuous application.
The big quote: “Patients stayed clear or almost clear for an average period of approximately 80 consecutive days,” notes Dr. Robert Bissonnette, highlighting that most patients achieved “complete disease clearance” on monotherapy.
By the numbers
728: Patients enrolled in the long-term study
51.9%: Achieved complete disease clearance
81.6%: Reached clear or almost clear skin
79.8 days: Average treatment-free interval
Between the lines: The study showed patients could regain skin clearance when they retreated after symptoms returned, with no loss of effectiveness over 48 weeks.
What’s next: In Q4 2024, the FDA will decide on VTAMA’s supplemental application for atopic dermatitis treatment in adults and children 2+ years old.
The bottom line: Dermavant is positioning VTAMA as a steroid-free alternative that could transform treatment patterns by enabling extended periods without medication.
5. Journey Medical reveals promising data for new rosacea Rx
Journey Medical presented pharmacokinetic data showing its experimental rosacea treatment DFD-29 achieved higher skin concentrations than the current standard therapy.
Why it matters: Rosacea affects over 415 million people globally and can significantly impact quality of life. Ninety percent of patients report lower self-confidence, and 51 percent of severe cases lead to work absences.
The big picture: The company is positioning DFD-29 as a potential best-in-class therapy, with an FDA decision expected by November 4.
By the numbers
40mg: The dose of DFD-29, which would be the lowest fixed-dose minocycline if approved
16M+: Americans affected by rosacea
9: Total products currently marketed by Journey Medical (7 branded, 2 generics)
Between the lines: The trial showed that DFD-29 maintained consistent plasma levels while achieving maximum skin concentration from day one, potentially suggesting a faster onset of action than doxycycline.
What’s next: Journey Medical’s entry into the rosacea market could be marked by the upcoming PDUFA date of November 4, 2024.
The bottom line: If approved, DFD-29 could reshape the rosacea treatment landscape with its modified-release formulation and favourable pharmacokinetic profile.
Listen to this: It’s “Dermatology.Business Deep Dive”
Here’s your enhanced audio supplement to this week’s edition. It’s a podcast that goes behind the scenes in the Dermasphere, adding context and observations to the articles in this issue. Listen here, or look for it wherever you get your audio content
6. Vancouver’s Derm-Biome targets $5B acne treatment market with novel approach
Vancouver-based Derm-Biome Pharmaceuticals is positioning itself to disrupt the acne treatment market by developing a new topical gel and recruiting Canadian dermatology expert Dr. Jerry Tan.
Why it matters: The company aims to solve key challenges in acne treatment with an innovative approach.
Market landscape
50 million Americans experience acne annually
Global acne treatment market: ~US$5B
Significant psychological impacts, including social anxiety and depression
Key innovations
1. Natural product-based gel targeting multiple acne pathways
2. No skin irritation or side effects
3. Long-term safe usage
4. Effective across all skin types
Expert perspective: Dr. Tan (below), a leading dermatology researcher, highlights an “unmet need for treatments that are both well-tolerated and effective," positioning the company's approach as a potential breakthrough.”
Competitive advantages
No antibiotic resistance risk
Natural ingredients
Faster results
Minimal side effects
What’s next? Preclinical development, potential clinical trials, and strategic market entry leveraging dermatology expertise.
The bottom line: Derm-Biome is capitalizing on a consumer-driven shift toward holistic, science-backed skin treatment solutions.
7. Irish telederm startup claims to cut wait times (not to mention emissions)
Allview Healthcare, an Irish teledermatology startup, says its approach reduces healthcare waiting lists and greenhouse gas emissions.
By the numbers
Nine clinics opened since 2020
25,000 patients treated
236+ tonnes of CO2 emissions saved over two years
Cdn$10.43 million (€7 million) invested to date
65 employees
How it works: Patients visit Allview clinics, where nurses take high-resolution images and medical histories. Consultants then remotely assess, diagnose, and recommend treatment.
Key benefits
Claims to cut wait times from 1-3 years to two weeks for surgery
Handles 3,000-4,000 Health Service Executive (HSE or Feidhmeannacht na Seirbhíse Sláinte) patients annually, with a capacity for up to 20,000
Potential for significant cost savings in early melanoma detection
What’s next: Allview is eyeing expansion into Northern Ireland and Britain and possibly adding ophthalmology in Ireland.
The bottom line: Allview’s model could offer a scalable solution to long dermatology wait times while reducing healthcare’s carbon footprint.
8. Galderma's prurigo nodularis breakthrough: Nemolizumab's FDA approval
New data recently published in JAMA Dermatology on Galderma’s Nemluvio, the first monoclonal antibody targeting IL-31 receptor alpha for prurigo nodularis, shows efficacy and will expand treatment options for an underserved patient population. The U.S. FDA approved the therapy in August 2024.
Key metrics
Phase III OLYMPIA trials demonstrated significant improvements in:
Itch intensity (58.4% patient response)
Skin lesion clearance (26.3% patient improvement)
Sleep disturbance reduction
Strategic implications
Potential market of up to 181,000 patients in the U.S.
Positioned for global regulatory expansion
Multiple pending approvals across Canada, Australia, Europe, and other markets
Regulatory runway
FDA approval in August 2024
European Medicines Agency review ongoing
Additional atopic dermatitis application under FDA review
What’s next?
Galderma aims to commercialize Nemluvio worldwide rapidly, leveraging its first-mover advantage in this specialized dermatological treatment segment.
9. India’s Emcure launches a dedicated dermatology subsidiary
Emcure Pharmaceuticals created Emcutix Biopharmaceuticals, marking a strategic push into India’s growing dermatology market.
Why it matters: The move signals increasing corporate interest in India’s dermatology sector, which is seeing growth in value and unit consumption.
Driving the news: Industry veteran G. Sathya Narayanan will lead the new subsidiary, bringing experience from his previous role as Galderma’s South Asia Managing Director.
Between the lines: By consolidating its existing dermatology business under Emcutix, Emcure aims to develop prescription and consumer products specifically for the Indian market.
The strategy
Focus on first-time product launches
Target unmet needs in Indian dermatology
Develop both therapeutic and aesthetic solutions
Leverage existing portfolio while building new offerings
What they’re saying: “Emcutix represents a unique opportunity... to build a differentiated dermatology portfolio,” says Narayanan, emphasizing plans to make “meaningful difference in skin health in India.”
The bottom line: The launch of Emcutix reflects growing pharmaceutical industry confidence in India's dermatology market potential.
10. TikTok skincare controversy erupts, sparking lawsuits and safety concerns
A mysterious Indonesian TikTok influencer, “Dokter Detektif” exposes inaccurate claims about popular skincare products.
Why it matters: The revelations are shaking up the Indonesian beauty industry and raising concerns about product safety and marketing practices.
By the numbers
Dokter Detektif has 1.2 million TikTok followers
One exposed product contained 60,353.45 mg/kg of hydroquinone
Another claimed 10% niacinamide but only contained 5.3%
Key players
Hani Sagara: Cosmetics manufacturer suing influencers for calling her a “skincare mafia”
Nikita Mirzani, Dr. Richard Lee, Dr. Okky Pratama: Influencers being sued
Between the lines: The controversy highlights the tension between influencer marketing, product claims, and consumer safety in the booming Asian skincare market.
What they’re saying: “My mission is to protect the public from the overwhelming wave of overclaimed skincare products that can be detrimental,” says Dokter Detektif.
The big picture: This scandal could lead to increased scrutiny of skincare marketing claims and stricter regulations in Indonesia’s beauty industry.
QUARTERLY EARNINGS WATCH (1)
LEO Pharma posts strong Q3, driven by dermatology wins
LEO Pharma reported 10% revenue growth in Q3 2024, hitting DKK 3,057 million ($436M), driven by solid dermatology sales and North American expansion.
Why it matters: The Danish pharma company’s performance shows momentum in the competitive dermatology market, particularly with its flagship atopic dermatitis drug Adtralza/Adbry.
By the numbers
Dermatology revenue: Up 12% to DKK 2,479M
North American revenue: Up 34% to DKK 610M
Adtralza/Adbry sales: Up 70%
Big moves
Got EU approval for delgocitinib (Anzupgo) cream for chronic hand eczema
Filed FDA application for delgocitinib in the U.S.
Submitted Enstilar NDA in China
Announced plans to cut up to 250 positions
The bottom line: LEO Pharma’s double-digit growth and regulatory wins position it as an emerging global player in dermatology, though restructuring suggests a focus on profitability alongside expansion.
QUARTERLY EARNINGS WATCH (2)
Bausch Health posts 12% revenue jump in Q3
Bausch Health reported Q3 2024 revenues of $2.51 billion, marking its sixth straight quarter of year-over-year growth.
Why it matters: The results show Bausch’s diversification strategy is working, with growth across all segments, including its newly separated Bausch + Lomb eyecare unit.
By the numbers
Total revenue: Up 12% to $2.51B
Organic growth: Up 9%
Bausch + Lomb segment: Up 19% to $1.2B
Solta Medical: Up 35% to $112M
Salix segment: Up 5% to $642M
The deets
Strong performance in core drug Xifaxan (up 7%)\
Double-digit growth in Canada
Solid gains in Latin America
Notable growth in South Korea and China for aesthetics unit
The bottom line: Bausch Health’s multi-segment approach and geographic expansion are paying off, with robust momentum in its eyecare and aesthetics divisions.
Who’s hiring: Five interesting jobs open this week
1. Galderma is seeking a National Medical Education Manager for their Prescription Dermatology Business Unit in Thornhill, Ont.
This role is responsible for developing and implementing medical education strategies that support the company's therapeutic objectives and optimize patient care.
The ideal candidate will have a bachelor's degree in life sciences or a related field, with at least 3 years of experience in medical education or medical affairs within the pharmaceutical industry. Key responsibilities include planning and executing educational programs, collaborating with healthcare professionals and key opinion leaders, and ensuring compliance with industry regulations. The role also involves managing program budgets, tracking key performance indicators, and providing regular reports to senior management on the progress and outcomes of medical education initiatives. Strong communication skills, project management abilities, and experience in dermatology and immunology are essential.
The hiring process involves virtual conversations with the recruiter and hiring manager, followed by a panel interview with the extended team.
2. Bushbalm Skincare is seeking an Influencer Marketing Manager to join their team in Ottawa or Toronto
This full-time position offers an opportunity for a smart, ambitious, and self-driven individual to thrive in a fast-paced environment, working directly with the Senior Director of Brand Marketing and VP of Growth.
The ideal candidate should have at least three years of relevant influencer marketing experience and a proven track record of successful campaigns that drive brand awareness, engagement, and sales. Key responsibilities include leading influencer marketing campaigns, strengthening current strategies, managing gifting programs, developing ambassador programs, and collaborating cross-functionally with various teams. The role also involves monitoring industry trends, managing budgets, and maintaining solid relationships with influencers and key opinion leaders.
Requirements include a passion for skincare, strong organizational and negotiation skills, and a data-driven approach. The ability to work cross-functionally, meet deadlines, and communicate proactively is essential. Bonus skills include experience with CRMs, working in the skincare industry, and hosting influencer events. The ideal candidate should be a lifelong learner, team player, self-sufficient, and able to build strong relationships with influencers and creators.
3. Sun Pharma is seeking a Medical Science Liaison (MSL) for their dermatology division in Quebec
This field-based role provides medical and scientific information about Sun Pharma's dermatological products to various external and internal clients. It supports healthcare providers using a scientific approach aligned with brand team objectives and the therapeutic area medical plan.
The ideal candidate should have an MD, PhD, or PharmD degree and at least one year of field-based medical experience. Responsibilities include interacting with healthcare professionals, developing relationships with key opinion leaders, communicating complex scientific information, and supporting clinical research initiatives. The role also involves territory planning, implementing peer-to-peer engagement plans, and providing internal training and communication with the Medical, Brand, and territory managers.
Requirements include experience in immunology and dermatology, strong interpersonal and organizational skills, and excellent presentation and training abilities. The position requires bilingualism in French and English, the ability to travel up to 60-70% of the time, and a willingness to work in a dynamic environment with minimal supervision. Knowledge of the pharmaceutical industry and demonstrated project management skills are considered assets.
4. UCB is seeking an experienced Territory Manager for their Immunology and Dermatology division in Quebec West
This role is responsible for managing and optimizing the assigned territory, strengthening relationships with healthcare professionals (HCPs) and matching UCB's therapeutic solutions to appropriate patients.
The ideal candidate should have a bachelor's degree in health sciences, business, or a related field, with at least 5 years of relevant biopharma sales experience, preferably in Immunology/Dermatology. Key responsibilities include developing and implementing territory business plans, executing impactful tactical plans and HCP learning programs, and utilizing omnichannel marketing tools to advance understanding of UCB products.
Requirements include strong collaboration skills, excellent communication abilities, and residence within the geographic boundaries of the territory (Montreal, QC). The position involves travel within the assigned territory, with some overnight stays and occasional weekend work for conferences and congresses. UCB offers a supportive culture with opportunities for growth and career development in a global biopharmaceutical company focused on creating value for people living with severe diseases in immunology and neurology.
5. Smith+Nephew is seeking an Associate Account Manager for their Advanced Surgical Devices (ASD) division in the New Glasgow/Truro area of Nova Scotia
This role manages and grows the ASD Business Unit's product categories within the assigned territory.
Key responsibilities include
Delivering ASD sales targets
Developing and implementing effective territory/account sales strategies
Maintaining market and account analysis models
Implementing therapy promotional/sales programs
Building relationships with key decision-makers
The position requires travel within the designated sales territory, with 2-4 monthly overnight stays. Smith+Nephew offers comprehensive benefits, including a 401k matching program, flexible time off, health insurance, and various employee support programs.
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