THE WHAT? Kao has announced that it has received approval from Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry and Ministry of the Environment for the voluntary collection of plastic packaging at Kao business locations and in Kamakura City.
THE DETAILS The Japanese beauty manufacturer is the first to receive such approval for collection from the general public and will now be able to collect used refill packs without needing to obtain service permission under the country’s Waste Management Act.
THE WHY? This approval removes a barrier to Kao’s overarching sustainability goals, which include zero waste initiatives. The J-beauty manufacturer has been conducting field tests for recycling used plastic packaging in cooperation with local governments.
Clinical aesthetics products refer to a category of products used in the field of medical aesthetics or cosmetic dermatology. These products are typically designed and formulated to be used under the supervision of healthcare professionals, such as dermatologists, plastic surgeons, or trained aestheticians. They are distinct from over-the-counter cosmetics in that they often contain active ingredients or formulations that require expertise in their application or administration.
Examples of clinical aesthetics products include:
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Dermal Fillers: Injectable substances used to add volume, smooth wrinkles, and enhance facial contours. Examples include hyaluronic acid fillers like Juvederm and Restylane.
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Botulinum Toxin (Botox): Injectables that temporarily paralyze facial muscles to reduce the appearance of wrinkles caused by repetitive movements, such as frown lines and crow's feet.
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Chemical Peels: Solutions applied to the skin to exfoliate and improve its texture. They can treat acne, pigmentation issues, and signs of aging.
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Laser and Light Therapies: Devices that emit focused light or laser energy to treat various skin conditions, including acne, scars, and signs of aging.
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Prescription Skincare Products: Formulations containing active ingredients like retinoids (vitamin A derivatives), hydroquinone, or prescription-strength antioxidants to address specific skin concerns under medical supervision.
