THE WHAT? Johnson & Johnson has reached a US$700 million settlement with 42 US states and Washington DC. The health care manufacturer was under investigation for allegedly misleading shoppers into believing its talc products were harmless.
THE DETAILS Under the terms of the deal, Johnson & Johnson is not admitting to any wrongdoing, and the company stands by its claim that its talc products are safe and do not cause cancer.
THE WHY? The settlement is the latest in series of court battles Johnson & Johnson is facing over its baby powder. It is attempting to resolve outstanding litigation via a type of bankruptcy filing known as the Texas two-step, which will funnel liabilities into a dedicated company. It has set aside US$11 billion for this purpose.
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.