On Thursday October 31, Croma Pharma hosted 26 aesthetic practitioners at its Vienna headquarters for the exclusive Visit Croma event.
The event offered an in-depth look at the company’s hyaluronic acid (HA) filler manufacturing process.
The day commenced with a comprehensive tour of the manufacturing facility, led by Alexander Wonisch, global event manager at Croma Pharma. Practitioners were guided through the production areas, beginning with the quality and control laboratory where raw materials and samples undergo rigorous testing to ensure safety and efficacy.
The tour continued to the automated manufacturing lines, showcasing advanced technologies that minimise human error, including semi-automated lines with dual magnification, specialised light sources and rotating syringes. The facility employs 100% visual inspections and touchless discarding of defective syringes, which according to the company, underscores Croma Pharma’s commitment to maintaining high standards of sterility and product integrity.
Elaine Williams, aesthetic nurse practitioner and clinical director at EOS Aesthetics, commented, “I appreciated the opportunity to visit Croma’s headquarters. Observing the meticulous manufacturing process and their dedication to quality control and sterility was highly informative.”
Following the facility tour, the programme included sessions focused on the business aspects of aesthetic medicine. Daniel de Boer, executive vice president of business development and strategy at Croma Pharma, presented a global perspective on the aesthetic specialty, highlighting emerging trends and strategic opportunities for practitioners.
After a scenic lunch overlooking Kreuzenstein Castle in Leobendorf, Korneburg, delegates attended detailed presentations on Croma’s Saypha HA filler portfolio. David Kuroki-Hasenohrl, director of development, discussed the unique properties and performance characteristics of various HA fillers, including differences in concentration, degrees of crosslinking, and specific indications for use. Alice Krames-Jurss, head of clinical operations, reviewed clinical research and studies related to the effectiveness and safety of Croma’s HA fillers.
Regulatory compliance was addressed by Arkan Zwick, corporate director of regulatory affairs, who explained how Croma Pharma meets global standards under the medical device regulation (MDR). The transition from the medical device directive (MDD) to MDR-certified devices was emphasised, ensuring that products adhere to stringent EU regulations.
Valentin Gruber, head of global business services, told the Aesthetics Journal, “MDR approval for Saypha sets a new standard in aesthetic care, ensuring safety, efficacy, and transparency. This certification demonstrates Croma’s commitment to meeting stringent EU regulations, guaranteeing the quality and consistency of our dermal fillers. It also reinforces the importance of using these products with trained, accredited healthcare professionals, providing clear information on performance and precautions for both practitioners and consumers.”
The event also highlighted the benefits for healthcare professionals, including involvement in product development, participation in clinical trials for high-risk devices, and access to comprehensive product information and training. Emphasis was placed on the importance of safety, performance, and consumer satisfaction, supported by enhanced traceability measures such as Unique Device Identification (UDI) and safety summary certificates of performance (SSCP).
The day concluded with an interactive session where delegates had the opportunity to formulate their own HA gel. This hands-on experience provided practitioners with practical insights into the formulation process, fostering a deeper understanding of the products they utilise in their practice. The day’s comprehensive schedule concluded with a networking dinner at Artner am Franziskanerplatz in the heart of Vienna, offering delegates an opportunity to discuss insights and share reflections from the day’s sessions.
