Medical aesthetic products. New Zealand poised to ban forever chemicals in cosmetics

THE WHAT? New Zealand’s Environmental Protection Authority has announced its intention to ban PFAS from beauty products by 2025, according to a report published by 1 News. The regulatory body is proposing the measure as part of an update to the country’s Cosmetic Products Group Standard.

THE DETAILS The so-called ‘forever chemicals’ are found in some 52 percent of cosmetics, the news outlet claims, quoting a 2021 study from the University of Notre Dame in the US. A ban would align New Zealand’s ingredient rules with the European Union’s standard.

THE WHY? Although a Danish study has concluded that the levels of PFAS found in typical make-up products pose little to no risk to human health, forever chemicals do pose a problem to the environment as they do not degrade and high levels have been found in waterways and marine life.

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.