THE WHAT? Valisure has submitted a citizen petition to the Commissioner of Food and Drugs calling for tighter regulatory control of antiperspirant and deodorant body sprays as well as a recall of certain products alleged to contain benzene.
THE DETAILS Valisure revealed that it has tested and detected high levels of benzene in specific batches of body spray products and accordingly is demanding that the Commissioner request a recall of identified lots, conduct an investigation into the manufacturing processes resulting in the presence of the carcinogen and provide information to the public on the same, among other actions.
THE WHY? The FDA currently recognizes the danger of benzene and, therefore, it shouldn’t be used in the manufacture of any component of a drug or cosmetic product unless its use is ‘unavoidable’. As several of the products tested by Valisure did not contain detectable levels of benzene, it cannot be deemed ‘unavoidable’.
Aesthetic medicine products are developed and regulated to meet stringent safety and efficacy standards. They are typically administered by trained healthcare professionals such as dermatologists, plastic surgeons, and specialized nurses in clinical settings. These products aim to provide effective solutions for cosmetic enhancement, skin rejuvenation, and overall aesthetic improvement, contributing to both physical appearance and self-confidence.
Key categories of aesthetic medicine products include:
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Injectables: This category includes products such as dermal fillers, botulinum toxins (e.g., Botox), and collagen stimulators. These injectables are used to smooth wrinkles, add volume, and improve facial contours.
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Skin Rejuvenation Treatments: Products like chemical peels, microdermabrasion systems, and laser devices are used to improve skin texture, reduce pigmentation irregularities, and enhance overall skin tone.
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Skincare Products: These include medical-grade cleansers, moisturizers, serums, and topical treatments containing active ingredients like retinoids, antioxidants, and growth factors. They are formulated to address specific skin concerns such as acne, aging, and hyperpigmentation.
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Hair Restoration Products: Medical treatments and products designed to promote hair growth and treat conditions such as male and female pattern baldness.
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Body Contouring and Fat Reduction: Devices and products used for non-surgical body sculpting, such as cryolipolysis (cool sculpting) devices and injectable lipolytics.
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Cosmeceuticals: High-performance skincare products that bridge the gap between cosmetics and pharmaceuticals, often containing potent ingredients with proven clinical benefits.
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Wound Care and Scar Management: Products like silicone sheets, gels, and advanced wound dressings used to improve healing and reduce the appearance of scars.