SEATTLE, Jun 29, 2000 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ -- Filing of a provisional patent for a potential product for improving the appearance of wrinkled skin is under preparation and will be submitted within the next few weeks. The announcement was made today by <b>Fairchild International Corporation (Pink Sheets: FRCD)</b> in partnership with Praxis Pharmaceuticals (Pink Sheets: PRXX).

The natural carbohydrate-based compound is intended as an adjunct to improve the appearance of wrinkles. Currently these are treated using filler injections which are costly, sometimes ineffective and can have adverse side-effects. Since the product contains natural constituents and will be applied topically to the face it is anticipated it will be produced as a cosmetic and sold over-the-counter.
After several months of delays in developing data for a patent filing <b>the company may now begin serious negotiations with pharmaceutical and cosmetic manufacturers for licencing.</b> Up until now, the company has had to limit negotiations as a result of not having patent protection.

Skin creams, collagen, plastic surgery and other forms of treatment for aging-skin combined make this a billion dollar a year business in the United States alone. Fairchild is positioning itself to capture a significant share of this market, not only in the U.S. but in Europe and Asia, either through its own production or through licencing agreements with pharmaceutical and cosmetic manufacturers.
Both Dr. Charlton and Mr. Cox said they anticipate the patent filing will also assist in hastening the process of Praxis Pharmaceuticals and Fairchild International Corporation in becoming fully reporting on the OTC:BB.

For Further Information Contact: