Bausch + Lomb (BLCO) R&D Day 2026 summary

Pipeline strategy and innovation focus

• R&D targets pharma, surgical, vision care, and consumer, with vision care emphasizing contact lenses and SiHy platform expansion.

• Investment in premium FRP SiHy and bioactive hydrogel matrix with HA aims to improve comfort, hydration, and cost management for broader reach.

• Two major innovations: Project Halo (bioactive lens) and a differentiated myopia control lens for children.

• Combined, these pipeline products could add over $1.2 billion in revenue, with peak sales for HALO estimated at ~$500M and myopia control lens at ~$200M.

• Use of predictive modeling and machine learning optimizes material, design, and manufacturing.

Project Halo: Bioactive contact lens development

• Project Halo introduces the first bioactive contact lens using a double dose of hyaluronic acid (HA) in both lens and packaging.

• HA is polymerized into the lens backbone, enabling continuous hydration and high breathability without silicone.

• Clinical studies show 98.5% acceptability for smoothness and wettability, and 86.9% overall satisfaction.

• Halo lens retains 99% moisture after 12 hours, outperforming conventional silicone hydrogel lenses.

• Manufacturing leverages existing low-cost lines, supporting high margins and efficient global rollout.

Project Halo: Clinical and regulatory pathway

• Second external clinical study is on track for the second half of 2024, with launch targeted for 2028.

• Registration study planned for 2027, with expected patient enrollment around 130 or more.

• Launch will begin with monofocal lenses, followed by toric and multifocal modalities.

• Initial launch focused on the U.S., with international expansion considered later.

• Pricing strategy aims for broad accessibility, leveraging high margins from efficient manufacturing.