THE WHAT? Unilever has agreed to a US$2 million settlement to resolve allegations that its Suave brand aerosol deodorants were contaminated with benzene, a known carcinogen. This settlement comes after claims that consumers were exposed to the harmful chemical in products purchased between January 1, 2018, and March 7, 2024.
THE DETAILS The class action lawsuit claimed that Unilever’s Suave 24-Hour Protection Powder Aerosol Antiperspirant and Suave 24-Hour Protection Fresh Aerosol Antiperspirant contained benzene, posing a risk to consumers. Despite not admitting any wrongdoing, Unilever initiated a recall of the implicated products in March 2022 after discovering the contamination. Exposure to benzene is linked to leukaemia and other severe health conditions, raising significant concerns about consumer safety.
THE WHY? Under the settlement terms, affected consumers are eligible for compensation without the necessity of proof of purchase. Claimants who can provide proof of purchase are entitled to a full refund for the products bought, while those without proof can receive US$3.29 per product, up to three products per household, representing the average retail price. The total compensation may be adjusted depending on the number of claims submitted to ensure that all available settlement funds are equitably distributed.
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:
-
Dermal Fillers: Injectable substances used to add volume, smooth wrinkles, and enhance facial contours. Examples include hyaluronic acid fillers like Juvederm and Restylane.
-
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.
-
Chemical Peels: Solutions applied to the skin to exfoliate and improve its texture. They can treat acne, pigmentation issues, and signs of aging.
-
Laser and Light Therapies: Devices that emit focused light or laser energy to treat various skin conditions, including acne, scars, and signs of aging.
-
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.
