Medical aesthetic products. New woes for Revlon: company faces hair relaxer cancer claims 

THE WHAT? As Revlon’s bankruptcy nears its end, the company is being hit with fresh allegations that its hair relaxer products have caused cancer, according to a report by Bloomberg. 

THE DETAILS While the deadline to formally lodge complaints against the company ended in October 2022, Revlon’s bankruptcy judge has now extended the deadline until April 11, 2023 to allow consumers with a certain type of cancer to file claims against the company. 

THE WHY? Consumers are stating that they have developed cancer after using Revlon’s hair relaxing products, allegations that the company is disputing. 

Robert Britton, an attorney representing Revlon, stated that the exponential growth of claims in a matter of weeks would suggest that the claimants need better vetting.

Medical aesthetic products refer to a category of products used in the field of medical aesthetics, which combines medical practices with cosmetic procedures to improve the appearance of individuals. These products are typically used under the supervision of trained medical professionals such as dermatologists, plastic surgeons, or specialized nurses. They are distinct from over-the-counter cosmetics in that they often contain higher concentrations of active ingredients or require medical expertise for their application.

Examples of medical aesthetic products include:

• Dermal Fillers: Injectable substances used to restore volume, fill wrinkles, and enhance facial contours. These may include hyaluronic acid fillers like Juvederm or collagen-stimulating fillers like Sculptra.

• Botulinum Toxin (Botox): Injectable neurotoxins used to temporarily paralyze facial muscles, reducing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines caused by facial expressions.

• Chemical Peels: Solutions containing chemical exfoliants like glycolic acid, salicylic acid, or trichloroacetic acid, used to improve skin texture, treat acne scars, and reduce hyperpigmentation.

• Laser and Light Devices: Equipment used for various skin treatments, including hair removal, skin resurfacing, tattoo removal, and treatment of vascular and pigmented lesions.

• Prescription Skincare Products: Formulations containing active ingredients such as retinoids (e.g., tretinoin), hydroquinone, or prescription-strength antioxidants, designed to address specific dermatological concerns under medical supervision.

• Microneedling Devices: Devices that create tiny punctures in the skin to stimulate collagen production and improve skin texture and elasticity.

• Cosmeceuticals: High-quality skincare products that bridge the gap between cosmetics and pharmaceuticals, often containing biologically active ingredients with proven efficacy.