Eczema and dry skin sufferers in Saudia Arabia will be able to draw upon a wider range of Oilatum skin-care solutions thanks to significant investment by German brand owners Stada Arzneimittel.
“At Oilatum, we understand the cycle of dry skin and the challenges it presents for patients with eczema and chronic dryness, particularly in extreme conditions,” commented Ahmed El Barbary, general manager, Stada KSA+.
Atopic dermatitis (eczema) is a chronic condition affecting around 25% of children in Saudi Arabia and around 13% of adults, according to a Saudi Ministry of Health report.
“Recent research highlights an even broader prevalence when considering undiagnosed cases, emphasizing the urgent need for effective treatment options,” Stada added.
Saudi Arabia’s extreme climate, marked by high temperatures, low humidity, and heavy reliance on air conditioning further exacerbates these conditions, the firm continued, “making hydration and skin barrier protection essential components of eczema management.”
The nine new products – taking the range up to 11 in total – include “rich moisturizing creams for intense hydration, gentle body washes for daily cleansing, and baby-specific products like soothing bath bubbles and head-to-toe wash,” Stada explained.
The expanded range was unveiled at an exclusive event in Riyadh in January, which brought together dermatologists, doctors, and pharmacists from across Saudi Arabia and featured medical presentations by global and local experts on the impact of extreme weather conditions on skin health, as well as discussions on advancements in atopic dermatitis treatment.
“By equipping healthcare professionals in Saudi Arabia with these targeted solutions, we aim to help patients effectively manage atopic skin concerns, find relief from persistent irritation, and protect their skin from future discomfort,” El Barbary said.
Stada acquired Oilatum alongside five skin-care brands and a pediatric cough remedy from Haleon – then GlaxoSmithKline Consumer Healthcare – in 2019 for an undisclosed sum.
Stada CEO Peter Goldschmidt told HBW Insight at the time that the six brands had “great potential” for growth, particularly given the German company’s “rich heritage in skin care.”
“The skin-care category is a key focus [for us],” Goldschmidt declared, “and presents significant growth opportunities across territories.”
