Medical aesthetic products. Chinese stock exchanges expand cross-border trading programs

THE WHAT? The Shanghai, Shenzen and Hong Kong stock exchanges have upped their cross-border trading programs by more than 40 percent, or some 1,000 stocks, and greenlit southbound trading of eligible shares of international companies with primary listings in Hong Kong, according to a report published by Nikkei Asia.

THE DETAILS Among those to be added to the southbound stock connect list is L’Occitane. Its shares will be accessible to Chinese mainland investors from today.

THE WHY? Nicolas Aguzin, Hong Kong exchange CEO, said in a statement, per Nikkei Asia, “The expansion of both the southbound and northbound stock connect to include more companies is great news for the market and for investors. This is the next significant milestone development in the continued evolution of this unique and successful mutual market access programs.”

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.