THE WHAT? The European Parliament has voted in favour of a legislative package that would make the cosmetics and pharmaceutical industries financially responsible for cleaning wastewater.
THE DETAILS According to a report published by France24, if the rules are approved by member states, these two sectors will be required to cover 80 percent of additional investments needed to clean wastewater.
THE WHY? Some 14 percent of micropollutants in water treatment stations are said to derive from cosmetics, and 59 percent from the pharma industry, per France 24, and the European Commission thinks that the industries responsible should bear the brunt of the clean-up costs.
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.
