THE WHAT? The European Commission has levied a 15.9 million euro (US$17.05 million) fine against U.S. company International Flavors & Fragrances (IFF) and its French affiliate. This penalty is for obstructing an inspection related to an ongoing investigation into a suspected cartel in the fragrance and fragrance ingredients supply sector.
THE DETAILS During an inspection in March 2023, a senior IFF employee intentionally deleted WhatsApp messages exchanged with a competitor. After this was discovered, IFF immediately acknowledged the infraction and cooperated with the Commission to recover the deleted data.
THE WHY? The fine underscores the European Commission’s commitment to ensuring fair competition and its zero-tolerance policy toward obstruction of investigations. By penalizing IFF, the Commission aims to maintain the integrity of its investigation into the suspected fragrance cartel, which could have significant implications for the industry’s competitive landscape. The ongoing cooperation of the companies involved is crucial for the investigation’s progress and outcome
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.
