From the start of 2021, Hawaii has banned the sale of over-the-counter sunscreen products containing oxybenzone and octinoxate, in order to protect its environment. These two chemicals have been proved to be toxic to coral reefs and other sea life. Palau had been the first country to put the ban into order. A handful of other places in the US, the Caribbean Islands and Mexico had imposed the ban before Hawaii.

Emulsifier vs moisturiser

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What is the difference between an emulsion, and a moisturiser or a skin cream? Emulsion being a word used much in the K-beauty world, it is causing a bit of a confusion.

Emulsions are lighter versions of moisturisers. They are typically water-based, which means they are lighter than creams and more suitable for some skin types. Quite often they come in the form of gel or liquids. They are absorbed by the skin more easily and quickly and can produce a more soothing effect.

More glitter on diamonds

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Alcohol and beauty products have competition. To the businesses that have done well during the pandemic add another item: diamonds. The global diamond trade, which had been lacklustre for years, became even dimmer during the pandemic initially. But things are brightening once more, industry reports are saying.

The business is booming so much that apparently factories in the industry’s “engine room”, Surat, are wooing skilled cutters and polishers passionately with offers of 50 per cent pay hikes and free food and housing, reports Bloomberg.

The boom is prompted by the lack of travel opportunities. The pandemic has restricted luxury spending on travel and the money is going into diamonds.