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Over the years, some activist groups have targeted cosmetics as possible human health threats, claiming that cosmetic ingredients are not adequately tested for safety and may pose risks to consumers. The groups allege that industry practices related to safety testing are flawed, that there is little government oversight, and that cosmetics contain cancer-causing chemicals and other toxicants. A critical review of the scientific data related to these claims indicates the following: (1) Industry has the primary responsibility to ensure that all ingredients, preservatives, and coformulants used in products are safe for their intended uses. (2) The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has regulatory oversight of the cosmetic industry. Its authority includes the banning or restriction of ingredients for safety reasons. (3) The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR), an independent, scientific review board, critically evaluates chemical ingredients used in cosmetics and publishes the results of its findings in the peer-reviewed literature. (4) Health-related allegations about cosmetic ingredients are generally based on the results of high-dose laboratory testing in animals and have little relevance for humans. As true now as when Paracelsus said it in the 16th century, “It is the dose that makes the poison.” (5) The health-related allegations involving specific chemicals (e.g., phthalates, parabens, and 1,3-butadiene) fail to consider important scientific studies and recent regulatory conclusions about these chemicals, which have found that they are not hazardous. (6) Animal and human physiology differ in crucial ways, further invalidating simplistic attempts to extrapolate rodent testing to human health risks. The cosmetic industry should be encouraged to publish more of its toxicity studies and safety evaluations, which would aid in dispelling the uncertainty that some consumers have about cosmetic safety. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A graphene-based solid phase extraction (SPE) technique was developed for the extraction of parabens (methylparaben, ethylparaben, propylparaben, and butylparaben) in cosmetic samples, followed by determination by capillary electrophoresis (CE). The SPE extraction parameters such as eluent reagent and eluent volume, washing solution, sample pH, and flow-rate of sample loading, were investigated for satisfied recoveries. The running buffer, consisting of 25 mM borate solution (pH 10.0), was used for the separation of four parabens with the CE method within 10 min. The limits of detection were 0.14 mg/L, 0.13 mg/L, 0.15 mg/L, and 0.10 mg/L for methylparaben, ethylparaben, propylparaben, and butylparaben, respectively, and the mean recoveries obtained were between 62.6% and 100.4%. The developed method was used for the determination of parabens in real cosmetic products. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The article presents a number of toiletries and cosmetic packaging that will be delivered at Mintel's headquarters in London, England including a wet tissue packaging from Japanese company Daiso, the packaging of Avon's Strawberry Ice Cream Scrub for the Canadian market, and the packaging for Shinto anti-wrinkle cream from Makari de Suisse in the U.S.

Skin is an important route of exposure to chemicals after occupational, environmental and consumer product usage, routes also pertinent to nanomaterial exposure. Knowledge of the rate and extent of absorption is required for risk assessments to be made. The primary barrier to chemical absorption is the stratum corneum. The basic question to be answered is how nanomaterial absorption compares to existing paradigms of chemical absorption. Initial studies using topically applied quantum dots suggest that absorption is minimal, yet particle characteristics and species differences exist. If nanomaterial is absorbed via any route of administration, distribution to skin may also occur as was demonstrated in isolated perfused skin studies. Research is beginning to be conducted to define the mechanistic framework describing nanomaterials biodistribution using pharmacokinetic models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper examines the marketing of trending green cosmetic products containing natural ingredients and coming with claims to keep skin health-enhancing and age-defying benefits. This is fostered by the growing importance of successful ageing and the neoliberal self-care agenda. Adopting the notion of "integrated design" from Multimodal Critical Discourse Analysis (MCDA), this paper looks at the communicative affordances of the web and how marketers of "green" cosmetics connect these to science. The analysis shows that the integrated design of the webpages allows cosmetic companies to connote science while glossing over significant details, leaving causalities, classifications, and processes unspecified. This marketing frames fighting the "look" of ageing as a moral and ethical consumption choice. Such choices relate to self-care regimes of a "successful" neoliberal citizenship. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Modern Italian Studies is the property of Routledge and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Phenolic compounds in plants are essential components of human nutrition, which provide various health benefits. However, some missing links became the research in phenolic compounds structures and potential applications in a challenging work. Despite universal extraction methods with mixtures of different organic solvents are generally adopted in the analysis of phenolic compounds, a need for establish a specific procedure is still open. The great heterogeneity in food and food by-products matrices and the lack of standardized methods which combine chromatographic with spectrophotometric techniques to calculate the amount of phenolic compounds joined with the absence of specific standards hamper to accurate know the real amount of phenolic compounds. Indeed, the high complexity in nature and chemistry of phenolic compounds clearly difficult to establish a daily intake to obtain certain healthy outcomes. Hence, despite the potential of phenolic compounds to use them in cosmetic and healthy applications have been widely analyzed, some concerns must be considered. The chemical complexity, the interactions between phenolic compounds and other food components and the structural changes induced by food processing joined with the lack in the understanding of phenolic compounds metabolism and bioavailability undergo the need to conduct a comprehensive review of each factors influencing the final activity of phenolic compounds. This paper summarizes the potential of phenolic compounds for disease prevention and cosmetics production, as well as their many other uses derived from their antioxidant activity. This paper illustrates the potential of phenolic compounds for disease prevention and cosmetics production, as well as their many other uses derived from their antioxidant activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thin-layer chromatography is a convenient analytical tool for the analysis of sunscreen containing products. This paper covers the details of performing the essential steps in the analysis of both synthetic and natural sunscreens. References to current and past key papers are cited with examples of these sunscreens and updates of advances in tools and techniques to make this an even more important analytical technique. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper investigates female shoppers' attitude and purchase intention toward green cosmetics. Underpinned with an extended theory of planned behavior model, the research framework examines consumers' attitude and purchase intention. In addition, the moderating influence of consumer involvement is tested. Data (n = 408) were collected from South Africa and analyzed through structural equation modeling. The results show that subjective norm has a significant positive impact on the consumers' purchase intention for green cosmetics. Also, ecological motive and environmental knowledge impact the consumers' attitude toward green cosmetics. In addition, consumers' involvement strengthens the positive relationship between attitude and purchase intention. However, the role of perceived behavioral control and health consciousness were non-significant. The findings suggest that practitioners should try to enhance the consumers' knowledge and involvement about green cosmetics. They should inform and educate the consumers through an integrated marketing communication approach by means of campaigns, advertisements, and public relations. Thus, through relevant environmental information or knowledge, consumers will be more educated aiming to impact positive attitude and purchase intention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study investigates which group of Saudi females are more conscious about buying green cosmetic products. It also analyses the relationship between motivational factors (MF), purchase preferences (PP), and tendency towards heath consciousness (THC) in green cosmetic products. A model was developed to understand the influence of independent variables on the dependent variable. MF, PP, and THC were considered as independent variables and purchase of green cosmetic products as dependent variable. A survey was conducted using a survey questionnaire and collected data from 318 Saudi women under three major segments (university students, working women, and non-working women) belonging to various provinces in Saudi Arabia. Multiple regressions in SPSS software were used to analyze the collected data. While the students do not have a significant purchasing capability, housewives lack an informed purchasing decision. However, only the working women are potentially motivated with fair health consciousness and consideration to purchase the green cosmetics. This paper provides an insight for retailers, wholesalers, manufacturers' green cosmetic industry, policymakers, whole cosmetic industry, and other stakeholders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Risk assessment of cosmetic ingredients is a useful scientific method to characterize potential adverse effects resulting from using cosmetics. The process of risk assessment consists of four steps: hazard identification, dose-response assessment, exposure assessment, and risk characterization. Hazard identification of chemicals refers to the initial stage of risk assessment and generally utilizes animal studies to evaluate toxicity. Since 2013, however, toxicity studies of cosmetic ingredients using animals have not been permitted in the EU and alternative toxicity test methods for animal studies have momentum to be developed for cosmetic ingredients. In this paper, we briefly review the alternative test methods that are available for cosmetic ingredients including read-across, in silico, in chemico, and invitro methods. In addition, new technologies such as omics and artificial intelligence (AI) have been discussed to expand or improve the knowledge and hazard identification of cosmetic ingredients. Aggregate exposure of cosmetic ingredients is another safety issue and methods for its improvement were reviewed. There have been concerns over the safety of nano-cosmetics for a long time, but the risk of nano-cosmetics remains unclear. Therefore, current issues of cosmetic risk assessment are discussed and expert opinion will be provided for the safety of cosmetics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Studies in Conservation is the property of Taylor & Francis Ltd and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

For a few years, mineral oils and their potential adverse health effects have been a constant issue of concern in many regulatory areas such as food, cosmetics, other consumer products, and industrial chemicals. Analytically, two fractions can be distinguished: mineral oil saturated hydrocarbons (MOSH) and mineral oil aromatic hydrocarbons (MOAH). This paper aims at assessing the bioaccumulative potential and associated histopathological effects of MOSH as well as the carcinogenic potential of MOAH for consumer-relevant mineral oils. It also covers the absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion of MOSH and MOAH upon oral and dermal exposures. The use and occurrence of consumer-relevant, highly refined mineral oils in food, cosmetics and medicinal products are summarized, and estimates for the exposure of consumers are provided. Also addressed are the challenges in characterizing the substance identity of mineral oil products under REACH. Evidence from more recent autopsy and biopsy studies, along with information on decreasing food contamination levels, indicates a low risk for adverse hepatic lesions that may arise from the retention of MOSH in the liver. With respect to MOAH, at present there is no indication of any carcinogenic effects in animals dermally or orally exposed to highly refined mineral oils and waxes. Such products are used not only in cosmetics but also in medicinal products and as additives in food contact materials. The safety of these mineral oil-containing products is thus indirectly documented by their prevalent and long-term use, with a simultaneous lack of clinical and epidemiological evidence for adverse health effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In May 1935, the British manufacturer Boots launched 'Number Seven', a premium range of skin-care products sold via its nationwide network of chain-store chemists. Using material from the Boots Archive, this paper traces the early history of Number Seven to explore the changing meanings of middle-class cosmetics across the mid-twentieth century. Number Seven offered provincial and suburban women an explicitly modern form of facial beauty that married the logics of mass production to traditional moral aesthetics. Through the discourse of 'loveliness' and the careful management of in-store experience, it negotiated the prerogative connotations of colour cosmetics and the problematic influence of cinematic glamour. Yet by the mid-1950s, this construction had been superseded by a more situational understanding of beauty that was dependent on context and the appreciation of others. This fundamental shift in the normative aesthetics of public femininity had important implications for women on both sides of Boots' toilet counters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a comprehensive review of European Union (EU) legislation addressing the safety of chemical substances, and possibilities within each piece of legislation for applying grouping and read-across approaches for the assessment of nanomaterials (NMs). Hence, this review considers both the overarching regulation of chemical substances under REACH (Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006 on registration, evaluation, authorization, and restriction of chemicals) and CLP (Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 on classification, labeling and packaging of substances and mixtures) and the sector-specific pieces of legislation for cosmetic, plant protection and biocidal products, and legislation addressing food, novel food, and food contact materials. The relevant supporting documents (e.g. guidance documents) regarding each piece of legislation were identified and reviewed, considering the relevant technical and scientific literature. Prospective regulatory needs for implementing grouping in the assessment of NMs were identified, and the question whether each particular piece of legislation permits the use of grouping and read-across to address information gaps was answered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gelatin is a highly purified animal protein of pig, cow, and fish origins and is extensively used in food, pharmaceuticals, and personal care products. However, the acceptability of gelatin products greatly depends on the animal sources of the gelatin. Porcine and bovine gelatins have attractive features but limited acceptance because of religious prohibitions and potential zoonotic threats, whereas fish gelatin is welcomed in all religions and cultures. Thus, source authentication is a must for gelatin products but it is greatly challenging due to the breakdown of both protein and DNA biomarkers in processed gelatins. Therefore, several methods have been proposed for gelatin identification, but a comprehensive and systematic document that includes all of the techniques does not exist. This up-to-date review addresses this research gap and presents, in an accessible format, the major gelatin source authentication techniques, which are primarily nucleic acid and protein based. Instead of presenting these methods in paragraph form which needs much attention in reading, the major methods are schematically depicted, and their comparative features are tabulated. Future technologies are forecasted, and challenges are outlined. Overall, this review paper has the merit to serve as a reference guide for the production and application of gelatin in academia and industry and will act as a platform for the development of improved methods for gelatin authentication. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work characterizes scientific and health information from posts addressing cosmetic products on Instagram for one-year. Portuguese profiles that cover cosmetic products were selected based on popularity and expertise. Posts concerning cosmetic products were recorded, and those containing scientific and health information were selected. A new method was used, which allows rating each post as "correct," "confuse," or "incorrect". Ten popular profiles and three expert profiles were selected. Forty-five posts containing scientific and health information about cosmetic products were analyzed. Popular profiles were approximately ten times more likely to convey confusing information about cosmetic products than expert profiles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper describes the requirements and resulting challenges for the implementation of current and upcoming European Union legislation referring to the use of nanomaterials in food, cosmetics and other consumer products. The European Commission has recently adopted a recommendation for the definition of nanomaterials. There is now an urgent need for appropriate and fit-for-purpose analytical methods in order to identify nanomaterials properly according to this definition and to assess whether or not a product contains nanomaterials. Considering the lack of such methods to date, this paper elaborates on the challenges of the legislative framework and the type of methods needed, not only to facilitate implementation of labelling requirements, but also to ensure the safety of products coming to the market. Considering the many challenges in the analytical process itself, such as interaction of nanoparticles with matrix constituents, potential agglomeration and aggregation due to matrix environment, broad variety of matrices, etc., there is a need for integrated analytical approaches, not only for sample preparation (e.g. separation from matrix), but also for the actual characterisation. Furthermore, there is an urgent need for quality assurance tools such as validated methods and (certified) reference materials, including materials containing nanoparticles in a realistic matrix (food products, cosmetics, etc.). [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Although Urea is officially described as a buffering agent, humectant. and skin-conditioning agent-humectant for use in cosmetic products, there is a report stating that Urea also is used in cosmetics for its desquamating and antimicrobial action. In 2001, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) reported that Urea was used in 239 formulations. Concentrations of use for Urea ranged from 0.01% to 10%. Urea is generally recognized as safe by FDA for the following uses: side-seam cements for food contact; an inhibitor or stabilizer in pesticide formulations and formulations applied to animals: internal sizing for paper and paperboard and surface sizing and coating of paper and paper board that contact water-in-oil dairy emulsions, low-moisture fats and oils, moist bakery products, dry solids with surface containing no free fats or oil, and dry solids with the surface of fat or oil; and to facilitate fermentation of wine. Urea is the end product of mammalian protein metabolism and the chief nitrogenous compound of urine. Urea concentrations in muscle, liver, and fetuses of rats increased after a subcutaneous injection of Urea. Urea diffused readily through the placenta and into other maternal and fetal organs. The half-life of Urea injected into rabbits was on the order of several hours, and the reutilization rate was 32.2% to 88.8%. Urea given to rats by a bolus injection or continuous infusion resulted in distribution to the following brain regions: frontal lobe, caudate nucleus, hippocampus, thalamus plus hypothalamus, pons and white matter (corpus callosum). The permeability constant after treatment with Urea of whole skin and the dermis of rabbits was 2.37 ± 0.13 (x106) and 1.20 ± 0.09 (x10³) cm/min, respectively. The absorption of Urea across normal and abraded human skin was 9.5% ± 2.3% and 67.9% ± 5.6%, respectively. Urea increased the skin penetration of other compounds, including hydrocortisone. No toxicity was observed for Urea at levels as high as 2000 mg/kg in acute oral studies using female rats or mice. No signs of toxicity were observed in male piglets dosed orally with up to 4 g/kg Urea for 5 days. Dogs dosed orally with 5 to 30 g/L Urea for 4 to 10 days had signs of toxicity. including weakness, anorexia, vomiting and retching, diarrhea and a decreased body temperature, which led to a deep torpor or coma. No significant microscopic changes were observed in the skin of male nude mice dermally exposed to 100% Urea for 24 b. No observable effect on fetal development was seen in rats and mice dosed orally with an aqueous solution of Urea (2000 mg/kg) on days 10 and 12 of gestation. The mean number of implants, live fetuses, percent fetal resorptions, mean fetal weight, and percent fetuses malformed were comparable to control group. A detergent containing 15% Urea was injected into pregnant ICR-JCI mice and dams and fetuses had no significant differences when compared to control animals. Urea given orally did not enhance the developmental toxicity of N-nitrosomethylurea. Female Sprague-Dawley rats injected in the uterine born with 0.05 ml Urea on day 3 (preimplantation) or on day 7 (post implantation) exhibited no maternal mortality or morbidity; a dose-dependent reduction in embryo survival was seen with preimplantation treatment. Urea injected intra-amniotically induces mid-trimester abortions in humans. Urea was not genotoxic in several bacterial and mammalian assays; although in assays where Urea was used at a bigb concentration, genotoxicity was found, many in in vitro assays. Urea is commonly used in studies of DNA because it causes uncoiling of DNA molecules. Urea was not carcinogenic in Fisher 344 rats or C57B1/6 mice fed diets containing up to 4.5% Urea. Exposure of normal human skin to 60% Urea produced no significant irritation in one study, but 5% Urea was slightly irritating and 20% Urea was irritating in other reports. Burning sensations are the most frequently reported effect of Urea used alone or with other agents in treatment of diseased skin. Overall, there are few reports of sensitization among the many clinical studies that report use of Urea in treatment of diseased skin. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel determined the data provided in this report to be sufficient to assess the safety of Urea. The Panel did note that Urea can cause uncoiling of DNA, a property used in many DNA studies, but concluded that this in vitro activity is not linked to any in vivo genotoxic activity. Although noting that formulators should be aware that Urea can increase the percutaneous absorption of other chemicals, the CIR Expert Panel concluded that Urea is safe as used in cosmetic products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent policy developments in the European union (EU) and within the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) have placed increased emphasis on the use of structure-activity relationships (SARs) and quantitative structure-activity relationships (QSARs), collectively referred to as (Q)SARs, within various regulatory programmes for the assessment of chemicals and products. The most significant example within the EU is the European commission's proposal (of 29 October 2003) to introduce a new system for managing chemicals (called REACH), which calls for an increased use of(Q)SARs and other non-animal methods, especially for the assessment of low production volume chemicals. Another development within the EU is the Seventh Amendment to the Cosmetics Directive, which foresees the phasing out of animal testing on cosmetics, combined with the imposition of marketing bans on cosmetics that have been tested on animals after certain deadlines. At the same time, the Existing Chemicals programme within the OECD is investigating ways of increasing the use of chemical category approaches, which depend heavily on the use of (Q)SARs. activity-activity relationships and read-across. Such developments are placing an enormous challenge on industry, regulatory bodies, and on the European commission's Joint Research Centre (JRC). which is responsible for providing independent scientific advice to policy makers in the European Commission and the Member States. This paper reviews the different scientific and regulatory purposes for which reliable (Q)SARs could be used, and describes the current work of the JRC in providing scientific support for the development, validation and implementation of (Q)SARs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, the presence of trace residual delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol(THC) in food and cosmetics from hemp seed and seed derivatives (oil, hulled seed) has raised concerns over THC's potentially adverse impacts on human health and on the results of workplace drug tests for marijuana. Two desktop studies and one experimental study were conducted to evaluate whether (1) the ingestion of high amounts of food containing properly cleaned hemp seeds or their derivatives could cause psychoactivity or other undesirable impacts on human health, (2) the ingestion of these hemp foods may produce significantly high urine levels of THC metabolites to cause positive urine tests for marijuana and (3) the extensive use of hemp oil cosmetics may cause, or contribute to adverse health effects or a positive urine test. This paper provides an overview of these studies and presents their results and conclusions. In summary, the studies suggest that, at the levels now typical in Canadian hemp seed, THC in hemp foods and cosmetics does not cause unintentional psychoactivity, other adverse health effects or confirmed urine tests for marijuana. These levels provide protection from such effects with a wide margin of safety, even for individuals who consume hemp foods and cosmetics frequently and extensively. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

This paper aimed at examining the antecedents of brand sensitivity among African women whose cultural, economic, and social particularities make them a category of consumers that are different from their Western peers in terms of values and motivations. The concept of brand sensitivity has been assessed through two main variables:brand attachmentandbrand strength. The research postulated that narcissism, perceived risk, and involvement in a product category are the precursors of African women's brand attachment and brand strength. An online survey was administrated to a sample of 212 African women using cosmetic products. Results of confirmatory factor analysis and structural equation modeling conducted with AMOS 21 supported the structural validity of the conceptual model. In summary, the hypothesis testing suggested that while narcissism, perceived risk, and involvement in a product category were found to be nonsignificant on brand strength, their relationship with brand attachment was significant. Furthermore, results also indicated the existence of an indirect effect of these antecedents on brand strength via brand attachment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recently, many cosmetic researchers have been focused on multiple emulsions due to better performance. Limited application of multiple emulsions has been attributed to their instability, which can be resolved by the presence of liquid crystals. Multiple emulsions containing liquid crystals are affected by various formulation parameters, such as liquid oils. In this paper, the influence of liquid oils on the formation mechanism was studied. Besides, stability, small-angle x-ray scattering (SAXS) spectra analysis, and rheological analysis of the emulsions were investigated as well. The results showed that when the gap of the polarity between inner oils and external liquid oils is greater, the multiple structures were more easily formed. Multiple emulsions containing liquid crystals were superior in stability to multiple emulsions prepared in the same way with liquid oils that did not form liquid crystals. SAXS indicated that the liquid crystal orientation was lamellar. Rheological analysis indicated that the different structure emulsions showed shear-thinning behavior. The presence of liquid crystal decreased the viscosity and resulted in pseudoplastic enhancement. Both the storage modulus (G′) and the loss modulus (G″) of multiple emulsions were slightly higher than those of O/W-type emulsions, implying the existence of multiple structures. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) is a delayed-type hypersensitivity (DTH) reaction induced by repeated contact with sensitizers. The ability of a chemical to act as a sensitizer has most frequently been tested in animals. As the use of animals for these purposes is gradually and globally being phased out, there is a need for reliable in vitro surrogate assays. Currently proposed in vitro assays are designed to test four key events of the adverse outcome pathway (AOP) involving covalent modification of self-proteins by sensitizers (haptenation) and presentation of new antigens (hapten/carrier complexes) to the immune system. There appears to be imperfect alignment of in vitro assays with clinical and/or animal data, suggesting possibly additional mechanisms of ACD development. Indeed, studies on allergies to small drugs, small chemical-induced HLA-peptide exchange for vaccination purposes and cosmetic ingredient-induced exposure of autoantigens suggest a possibility of DTH response promotion by hapten/carrier-independent mechanisms. Therefore, there is a need for additional appropriate in vitro assays, in order to achieve maximal concordance between clinical and/or animal data and in vitro assays. In this paper, we will review evidence supporting the idea of diverse mechanisms of ACD development. We will also discuss the impact of these multiple mechanisms, on the AOP and on the in vitro assays that should be used for allergen detection. We will propose alloreactivity-like reactions, aided by computer modeling and biochemical tests of compound-HLA binding, as additional tools for better prediction of DTH reactions, resulting from exposure to ingredients in cosmetic products. The combination of the proposed tests, along with the existing assays, should further enhance animal-free assessment of sensitizing potential of individual chemicals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and objectives:Superficial cutaneous vascular lesions (SCVLs) are quite common. Several types of lasers have been used to treat these lesions; however, there are no dedicated treatment guidelines and few studies in the literature addressed their treatment.Aims:In this paper, we aimed to report our clinical experience with potassium titanyl phosphate (KTP) laser treatment on different types of facial SCVLs including telangiectasia, spider angioma, and erythema.Methods:Data were retrospectively collected from 146 patients with SCVLs, who had been treated with the 532-nm wavelength laser at our outpatient dermatology clinic. Treatment responses were graded as four groups: clearance (> 75% improvement compared with the previous session), marked improvement (50–75%), partial improvement (25–50%), and no response (< 25%).Results:The rate of clearance plus marked improvement (favorable outcome) was 66.1% for telangiectasia group, 93.5% for spider angioma group, and 26.7% for erythema group. Mean number of treatments was 2.9 ± 1.4 for telangiectasia group, 1.4 ± 0.8 for spider angioma group, and 2.9 ± 1.7 for facial erythema group. Only minimal adverse effects related to treatment procedure were detected in 5 out of 146 (3.4%) patients.Conclusions:Our results demonstrated that KTP laser might be a safe and effective laser modality for SCVLs, which may be associated with physiological problems due to cosmetic concerns. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Isopropyl stearate is used in cosmetics and personal care products as an emollient. The current work highlights the biocatalytic synthesis of isopropyl stearate in the absence of organic solvent. The reaction parameters were studied by one factor at a time method to evaluate the different factors, namely enzyme loading, molar ratio, temperature, and agitation speed. The maximum conversion of 93.89% was achieved at 3% (w/w) enzyme loading, 70°C temperature, and 1:2 acid to alcohol ratio with 200 rpm. The activation energy calculated for the esterification reaction was 10.59 kJ/mol. The Random Bi-Bi kinetic model with dead-end inhibition was suggested and validated for the enzymatic process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Litsea cubebaessential oil (LCEO) is widely used as a flavor enhancer in cosmetics and as a folk skin-care agent in southern China. The objective of this paper is to investigate whether LCEO has biological activities that might be useful in modern skin-protection formulations. The present study results revealed that citral (57.4%) was a major component, while LCEO exhibited a potent inhibitory effect on tyrosinase (IC50values 100 μg/mL), good antioxidative activities (IC50: 17.75 mg/mL for ABTS+., 10.2 mg/mL for O2−), and apparent protective effect against UV–TiO2–NO2−-induced protein oxidation at 0.01 mg/mL and tyrosine nitration at 0.1 mg/mL. Additionally, the biological activities of LCEO were compared with that of its main constituents. The results demonstrated that any individual major component was not the unique contributor to the high activity of LCEO. Based on these results, we suggested that LCEO could serve as a new natural skin-whitening agent. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Ozonized oils have interesting applications in the cosmetic industry and several patents on enriched products were developed in the last years. Ozonides are known for their high reactivity and stability data are required for enriched cosmetic products during storage. In this paper a dedicated determination of Peroxide Value (PV) was performed on ozonized sunflower oil (Neozone 4000) and on some enriched cosmetics, in order to control their stability during storage. The optimal conditions of the PV method were determined, following the decomposition reaction of ozonides with KI utilizing 1H-NMR and GC/MS techniques. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Prior research has considered antecedents of perceived quality and loyalty without consideration of information cues. This study investigates the effect of information cues in the female cosmetics market. Data collected from 193 female cosmetics users identifies significant antecedents and outcomes concluding that product packaging and brand innovativeness are major contributors to consumer evaluations of perceived quality, loyalty and word-of-mouth intentions. Frequency of use and of purchase moderates the effects of product packaging and brand innovativeness. The paper discusses the implications for brand owners and suggests that product packaging evaluations and brand innovativeness require closer attention as information cues to match consumer profiles in target markets. The study is the first of its kind within the cosmetics market. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Endocrine disruptors (EDs) have threatened our daily life severely through drinking water, cosmetics, foodstuff, and drugs. Various treatment processes for removal of EDs are studied in recent years, including membrane filtration, advanced oxidation process, biological treatment and adsorption. In this present paper, the progress of researches on various polymeric particles used as adsorbents of EDs including porous polymeric particles, hybrid polymeric particles, and imprinted polymeric particles, have been reviewed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Scar tissue formation by skin injury is common and patients need treatments for cosmetic or functional improvement. Objective: To determine the relationship between various characteristics of scars and patients’ treatment expectations. Methods: The subjects were patients who had one or more scars regardless of their intention for treatment between August 2007 and February 2008. The survey was conducted using paper forms on patients’ first visits. Results: A total of 589 patients (mean age 29 years) with various types of scars participated in this survey. Of the causes described by the patients, trauma was the most common (681 answers), followed by cutaneous diseases (189), and surgery (133). The treatment history of scars was recorded in 233 patients (39.6%), namely topical agents in 146 (62.7%), laser therapies in 79 (33.9%), and skin grafts or surgical scar revisions in eight (3.4%). Patients with a treatment history showed a more prominent expectation for the next treatment outcome ( p < 0.05) and were willing to spend more time on scar treatment ( p < 0.05). Conclusion: Although it could not play a major role in choosing treatment modalities, treatment expectations can be significant as a part of a healthy doctor–patient relationship, of which the ultimate goal is always the best outcome for the patient. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With increasing concern about skin damage resulting from overexposure to the sun, sunscreens producers have developed formulations designed to provide effective protection when applied as directed to the skin. Some of these formulations are based on nanoparticulate titanium dioxide which can offer UV protection alone or in combination with organic UV absorbers. This paper compares the potential health effects/hazards of a modified titanium dioxide, Optisol™, in comparison with other commercially available nanoparticulate titanium dioxides. An in vitro screening strategy led to in vitro tests for skin irritation, cytotoxicity, phototoxicity, and genotoxicity. In addition, Optisol™ was evaluated for any eye irritation potential according to the HET-CAM test. None of the titanium dioxide samples tested positive in any of the in vitro studies reported here. Therefore, these samples do not appear to present any significant human hazard as a result of dermal exposure when included as a component of sunscreen formulations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Men throughout history have suffered from various degrees of hair loss. Modern techniques for hair transplantation give rise to natural and long-lasting results. In this paper we provide an overview of the procedure, including the harvesting of donor hair in the occipital scalp, and its redistribution along the frontal- and mid-scalp areas. Special consideration must be made to choosing the candidates carefully and to performing their surgery in a manner that looks appropriate for all ages. We describe the role of medications for male pattern hair loss and with hair transplantation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper examines the changes in China's gender regime during the reform period, especially during China's accession to the WTO. The analysis provides a framework to relate these changes to the consumption behavior of women, especially the increased consumption of cosmetics, to interpret the impact of accession on the gender regime in China. Institutionalist theories that model consumption decisions as a personal display of group identity are extended to the special case of gender identity. According to this framework, the desire to display identity, such as social status or lifestyles, shapes the decision to consume commodities that also display gender such as cosmetics. Thus, the new gender regime is an unintended consequence of a complex pursuit of identity. When consumption is understood as a performance of identity, we can see how the expansion of aggressive marketing tactics affects consumption by influencing the associations of goods with social status. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper contributes to the current debate about the nature of beauty and aesthetics as they apply to interactive products. Current disagreement centres around the question of whether beauty should be viewed as a continuous property of objects or as a rare emotional response to object encounters. Here we develop a new perspective of beauty as a complex psychological construct, subject to competing influences from visible object properties such as shape and colour, and invisible object associations such as perceived ease of use and brand. We introduce a new methodology for examining such constructs based on a card sorting procedure, and use it to show how 36 participants think about the beauty of 35 MP3 players. One implication is that beauty may not correlate directly with preference. We also found that participants tended to evaluate the players holistically, applying similar categorisations to free sorts, beauty sorts and preference sorts. This involved a common polarisation between modern and post-modern forms as they have been found to apply to architectural styles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper explores the notion of fair skin and its relationship to the construction of a Hong Kong ‘racial’ identity by Hong Kongers. It examines a local television advertisement for a cosmetic product named ‘UVWhite whitening softener’. Based on the interpretations of focus-group participants in Hong Kong and the UK, and his own in the role of analyst, the author explores three different perspectives on the advertisement. A triangulation of these three perspectives reveals a number of possible meanings and symbolic functions of fair skin in forming identities of ‘self’ and ‘other’, and their relationships with class, gender and, above all, race in various sociocultural contexts. These perspectives, and the differences between them, also closely reflect the sociocultural backgrounds of the participants and provide clues to an understanding of the ways in which skin colour operates as a visual agent in defining the boundaries of cultural identity, and in identifying a person's place in a local social hierarchy, if not an increasingly global one. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Very few papers have been written about plural forms in store networks. But today, many store chains have both franchise and company-owned arrangements. Actually, this has been the case for more than twenty years. After a review of the literature devoted to the choice between franchise and company-owned systems, Bradach's research and his model of plural forms are described. This model was based on a study of five American fast food companies. Research conducted in France in the hotel and catering, bakery, and cosmetics industries, is then described. The advantages and drawbacks of plural forms are defined as they appear in the results of a survey among managers of twenty-one companies managing thirty-five chains. A model of the evolution of store chain organization is then shown. This model takes into account various strategic and managerial considerations met by store chains during their life cycle. Finally, chains and networks are compared, and the results and research perspectives, discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study analyzes the influence of electronic word of mouth (eWOM) on Instagram on cosmetics purchase intention to identify whether eWOM credibility and quality directly and indirectly influence consumers' attitudes and purchase intentions, respectively. The hypotheses were tested using the structural equation model partial least squares (SEM-PLS) method based on online questionnaire data collected from 595 Instagram users. We find that eWOM credibility and quality and influence consumers' attitudes toward eWOM and their cosmetics purchase intention. Moreover, involvement with cosmetics products can mediate the relationship between eWOM credibility, quality, and attitude. The results suggest that developing activities that stimulate eWOM about cosmetics on Instagram can create favorable attitudes and positively influence purchase intention. The findings can help companies and marketers use Instagram to advertise products by identifying the information needed to predict and understand consumer purchasing behavior. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to evaluate some toxic levels of nail cosmetics marketed in Seoul, Korea and health risk assessment on humans. We collected 45 random nail cosmetics and analysed for lead, cadmium, arsenic and antimony by inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES). Four metals concentrations were Pb 0.037 ± 0.083 (−6 which was lower than the permissible limit and nail cosmetics may not possess lifetime cancer risk. Our results suggested that metals were present in nail cosmetics at diverse concentrations and some nail cosmetics appeared to pose a harmful impact on health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of colour makeup among young adult men has gradually increased in South Korea over the years. The trend casts a couple of research questions. What are women's responses to men's colour makeup? Are women's attitudes towards gender roles and gender equality related to their acceptance of men's colour makeup? To answer these questions, women over 17 years old in South Korea (N = 1,044) were surveyed, and a series of ordinal regression analyses were conducted. The results show that South Korean women who favour gender equality and non-traditional gender roles are likely to support men's colour makeup. The results suggest that women's support of non-traditional gender roles leads to the acceptance of the non-stereotypical appearance of men, including colour makeup. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Artificial Intelligence (AI) color cosmetics applications emerged as an innovative solution to promote branded color cosmetics and enhance consumer decision making, primarily as a trial function. This research aims to investigate factors influencing AI color cosmetics applications adoption in the lens of social comparison theory. The data was analyzed using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) via SPSS and AMOS software. The results suggest that 1) the positive-view (versus negative-view) of body esteem increases price consciousness to a larger extent 2) the negative-view (versus positive-view) of body esteem increases AI color cosmetics applications adoption to a larger extent 3) price consciousness mediates the effect of body esteem on AI color cosmetics applications adoption 4) price consciousness moderates the effect of body esteem on AI color cosmetics applications adoption. Managerial implications of this research are provided for promotion managers of cosmetic retailers and AI color cosmetics applications developers seeking to promote and reach a larger segment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A microextraction method has been developed for the determination of rhodamine B (Rh-B) in water and cosmetics by separation and preconcentration with liquid microextraction based upon a switchable hydrophilic solvent and determination by spectrophotometry. The analyte was extracted into the triethylamine (TEA) phase using sodium hydroxide (NaOH) to convert protonated triethylamine carbonate (P-TEA-C) to triethylamine. Various analytical parameters such as the pH of the sample solution, extraction solvent volume, and sample volumes affecting the quantitative recovery values of rhodamine B were optimized. The limit of detection (LOD) and limit of quantification (LOQ) were 2.96 and 9.88 ng/mL, respectively. The developed method was successfully applied to the determination of rhodamine B and satisfactory recovery values were obtained. The developed approach is fairly fast and an environmentally friendly alternative for the separation and preconcentration of rhodamine B water and cosmetic samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Encapsulation is the way to wrap or coat one substance as a core inside another tiny substance known as a shell at micro and nano scale for protecting the active ingredients from the exterior environment. A lot of active substances, such as flavours, enzymes, drugs, pesticides, vitamins, in addition to catalysts being effectively encapsulated within capsules consisting of different natural as well as synthetic polymers comprising poly(methacrylate), poly(ethylene glycol), cellulose, poly(lactide), poly(styrene), gelatine, poly(lactide-co-glycolide)s, and acacia. The developed capsules release the enclosed substance conveniently and in time through numerous mechanisms, reliant on the ultimate use of final products. Such technology is important for several fields counting food, pharmaceutical, cosmetics, agriculture, and textile industries. The present review focuses on the most important and high-efficiency methods for manufacturing micro/nanocapsules and their several applications in our life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Notwithstanding continuing improvements in contact lens technology and increasing use of daily disposables, discontinuations from soft contact lens wear remain a significant problem with 'drop-out' too often occurring after patients have initially achieved successful routine use. This review examines the possibility that the signs and symptoms of discontinuations might, for example be associated with corneal and/or lid wiper neuropathy and/or aqueous, mucin and lipid deficiencies and/or mental health disorders. In addition, this review examines how soft contact lens wear places high demands on tear functions. Limitations in clinically detecting evidence of some adverse responses to soft contact lens wear may explain how discontinuations can sometimes be described as unexplained. Similarly, limitations in clinically determining the significance of different forms of tear dysfunction and their exacerbation by soft contact lens wear may be a barrier to explaining why symptoms of dryness are most commonly associated with discontinuations. The wider experience obtained with cosmetic contact lens fittings that is discussed in this review may be relevant to problems encountered in therapeutic contact lens applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article highlights several packaging innovations. Among those featured are Procter & Gamble's Scope mouthwash 750-milliliter bottle injection blow-molded in polyethylene, Brazilian Akla Industria de Cosmeticos' 250-milliliter Shrek shampoo pack and the All-Fect Distributors' Sour Foam Candy aluminium aerosol pack. Innovative packaging on cosmetic products and wine bottles are also featured. Information on each of the packaging innovations is presented.

The cosmetic use of botulinum toxin in the mid and lower third of the face has some challenges that must be overcome with experience. This paper briefly reviews the application of botulinum toxin in these regions. The treatment of the mid and lower face with botulinum toxin should be carried out with low doses. When starting with this technique, it is advisable to do a two-step treatment especially for those not acquainted with these regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Editorial. Presents an overview of articles on dermatologic and cosmetic applications of lasers submitted to the 'Journal of Cutaneous Laser Therapy.' Usage of laser for hair removal; Safety and effectiveness of lasers; Amendment of the name of the journal to 'Journal of Cosmetic and Laser Therapy.'

The article showcases and describes some intriguing product packaging from around the world. Easter chocolate eggs by Orion Confectionery are placed in flattened, colorful egg-shaped box with zigzag opening to give a cracked shell appearance. The Kamasutra Ginseng and Vodka from Bismarck Premium Brands comes in exotic glass bottle in the shape of a female form. Eye shadows and lip gloss by House of Fuller is packed in a swivel with central pillar and close to create a cylindrical structure.

This study was undertaken in order to determine heavy metal content in fifty-two (n = 52) cosmetic products both imported, locally manufactured and marketed at Quetta, Balochistan. An analytical test was performed for six heavy metal contents in cosmetic products using flame atomic absorption spectrophotometer. The heavy metal which was determined in cosmetic products are Pb, Cr, Mn, Zn, Cu and Fe. The results obtained in this study showed that the concentration of Mn, Zn, Cr and Cu in the analysed samples of each class was relatively higher. It is emphasised that the spurious nature of these products cannot be ignored because developing countries are facing problems to prepare good cosmetics. Hence, some of the vendors are selling locally made products under the brand name of well-reputed national and international companies. Since no safe limit relating to cosmetic products is yet established in Pakistan, therefore, it is difficult to ascertain if the metal concentration values obtained in this study are too high or low. However, literature revealed that prolonged use of such products comprising heavy metals in excess can carry a potential threat to human health and could curb the beauty of the environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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