The US FDA has approved Obagi saypha MagIQ, an injectable hyaluronic acid (HA) gel developed by Croma-Pharma GmbH and distributed under the Obagi Medical brand, part of Waldencast plc. This approval marks Waldencast's entry into the US HA dermal filler market and represents the first product in the Obagi saypha collection to receive US approval.
Advanced Technology Platform
Obagi saypha MagIQ employs Croma-Pharma's proprietary MACRO Core Technology, which creates a stable 3D HA matrix designed to deliver consistent gel distribution, predictable injection force, and a favorable swelling profile. The product offers high HA content per injection, which may enhance outcomes for both patients and practitioners seeking natural-looking results.
According to Waldencast, this approval is part of a larger rollout strategy that includes potential additional products from the saypha line, such as Obagi saypha ChIQ, which is currently under FDA review.
Clinical Evidence and Trial Results
The pivotal US trial for Obagi saypha MagIQ focused on the treatment of nasolabial folds (NLFs). The randomized, evaluator-blinded, active-controlled, multicenter trial enrolled 270 patients who were followed for 48 weeks after treatment, with the primary endpoint assessed at 24 weeks using a validated 5-point nasolabial fold severity scale.
The study met its primary and key secondary endpoints, demonstrating non-inferiority to the control filler while maintaining similar safety profiles. Notably, the trial included one of the highest reported representations of Fitzpatrick Skin Types I, V, and VI in HA filler studies, an important consideration for assessing outcomes across diverse skin types.
Dr. Jeremy Green, investigator for the US NLF pivotal study and an internationally recognized expert in cosmetic dermatology, commented: "Obagi saypha MagIQ demonstrated impressive safety, efficacy, and versatility in the trial, with smooth and consistent injection properties. This product allows practitioners to achieve precise, natural-looking results while delivering high patient satisfaction with its effectiveness and longevity."
Strategic Market Positioning
Michel Brousset, co-founder and chief executive officer of Waldencast, stated: "This milestone represents an exciting advancement in our long-term strategy to become the world's leading dermatological megabrand at the crossroads of skincare and medical aesthetics with the addition of a comprehensive integrated aesthetic solution that builds upon Obagi Medical's efficacious skincare products and strengthens our leadership in medical-grade beauty and aesthetics."
Dr. Suzan Obagi, Chief Medical Director of Obagi Medical, highlighted that the FDA approval reflects the company's focus on science-driven innovation and patient safety. She emphasized that the product's MACRO Core Technology offers a distinctive approach to addressing patient needs with precision across all skin types and tones.
Development Partnership and Manufacturing Expertise
Croma-Pharma, the developer of the product, brings more than 40 years of experience in HA-based technologies. The company reports having produced over 110 million syringes and conducted one of the largest clinical trial programs for injectable HA products.
Andreas Prinz, Chief Executive Officer of Croma-Pharma, stated: "We are proud to partner with Waldencast in bringing Obagi saypha MagIQ to the U.S. market under the Obagi Medical brand. With over 40 years of expertise in HA-based treatments and more than 110 million syringes produced, Croma-Pharma has a strong legacy of developing innovative aesthetic products that meet the evolving needs of practitioners and their patients."
Market Impact and Commercial Launch
With this approval, Waldencast projects that Obagi Medical's total addressable market will double to approximately $4.2 billion by 2029. The company plans to introduce Obagi saypha MagIQ in the US alongside other skin care innovations in 2026, leveraging its existing network of practices and aesthetic professionals.
The addition of an injectable product line is intended to complement Obagi's established portfolio of medical-grade skin care and broaden its offerings in aesthetics. Obagi Medical expects additional account expansion driven by the new injectable offering, creating synergies with the brand's fast-growing skincare business and driving enhanced value for both providers and patients.
The entry of Obagi saypha MagIQ into the US filler market positions Obagi Medical to extend its reach from topical skin health solutions into injectables, representing both a clinical and commercial milestone that provides dermatologists and aesthetic practitioners with another FDA-approved option for treating patients seeking dermal filler solutions.
