THE WHAT? The US Environmental Protection Agency is hoping to protect Americans from forever chemicals by setting out a standard for drinking water for the first time. The regulatory body has set aside a US$1 billion pot to help states test their public water systems for PFAS.
THE DETAILS According to a report published by Reuters, quoting a US Geological Survey, nearly half of US tap water samples contain PFAS. The new standard sets upper limits for PFOA, PFOS, PFNA, PFHxS and HFPO-DA.
Public water systems have been given three years to complete monitoring for these chemicals and five years to reduce levels where they exceed the standard.
THE WHY? The rules are designed to reduce exposure to PFAS for 100 million people and improve health outcomes accordingly, Reuters reports.
Brenda Mallory, Chair of the White House Council on Environmental Quality, said in a statement, per Reuters, “The first national drinking water standards for PFAS marks a significant step towards delivering on the Biden-Harris Administration’s commitment to advancing environmental justice, protecting communities, and securing clean water for people across the country.”
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.
