Princeton, NJ, May 13, 2003 -- According to figures from the American Podiatric Medical Association, three-quarters of Americans have foot problems, with women suffering from foot-related problems up to four times as often as men. At the same time, a number of trends, particularly the aging of the American population, point to long-term growth in sales of foot care products. An estimated 12,500 turn 50 every day. In addition, more and more consumers choose self-care strategies.

These trends are transforming the "same-old-same-old" environment of retail foot care, with input from younger companies such as Xenna, which focus on innovation in product development. Its two leading products, NonyX® Nail Gel and CalleX® Ointment take new approaches to two old problems: discolored nails, and calluses or dry, cracked skin.

NonyX Nail Gel Removes Yellowing Keratin Debris Build-Up

NonyX Gel is a unique, patented gel that breaks down and removes yellow or discolored keratin debris build-up under toenails and fingernails. Recommended by podiatrists as a topical exfoliant of keratin debris, NonyX keeps nails looking clear and attractive with regular use. According to the manufacturer, applied twice daily, improved nail color may be seen in 2 to 4 weeks, and improvement in overall nail appearance may be seen in 6 to 12 weeks. Once keratin debris build-up is removed, NonyX helps keep the nails looking clear and attractive by applying three times weekly. One 4 oz. bottle is a 3-month supply.

Exfoliating CalleX® Ointment Uses Plant Enzymes

Acid-free CalleX Ointment uses natural plant enzymes to exfoliate hyperkeratotic tissue, while its peppermint-fragranced petrolatum base helps skin retain natural moisture. CalleX is ideal for runners, golfers, gardeners, wheelchair users and other individuals who tend to develop friction-related calluses, as well as those with extremely dry or fragile skin. Its patent-pending formulation is free of acids, parabens, lanolin or colorants and is available in a 1.75 oz. jar, a 1-2 month supply. Xenna recommends the ointment be applied twice daily until calluses are thinned, and then three times weekly to keep heels and skin smooth, soft and attractive.

Carol J. Buck, CEO of Xenna Corporation feels the best way to optimize sales growth in pharmacy foot care sections is to feature new products at checkout counters in displays that bring attention to them. "The foot care section is usually located in a quieter part of the store and may not get the careful scrutiny of shoppers very often."