THE WHAT? The Chemical Business Association (CBA), representing the chemical supply chain, has announced its membership in the newly established Critical Imports Council, an initiative by the Department for Business and Trade (DBT). This council aims to ensure the steady flow of essential goods into the UK, including crucial chemical supplies.
THE DETAILS Convened for the first time on April 17, 2024, the council brings together 23 industry experts from top UK businesses and associations, including CBA’s CEO, Tim Doggett. Meeting quarterly, this group will collaborate with the government to provide advice on cross-border trade and to foster resilient, sustainable supply chains essential for the UK’s economic prosperity and national security. Additionally, the DBT plans to launch an online portal for businesses to promptly report supply chain issues, enhancing the responsiveness to potential disruptions.
THE WHY? The creation of the Critical Imports Council responds to recent threats to supply chain stability such as the Red Sea attacks, the COVID-19 pandemic, Brexit, and ongoing conflicts like the war in Ukraine. This initiative is part of the broader government strategy to bolster the security and reliability of essential imports, ensuring that businesses can continue to operate effectively despite global challenges. The council will play a crucial role in implementing the government’s Critical Imports and Supply Chains strategy, which includes 18 actions aimed at improving supply chain resilience.
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.