Latest news with #Akhavan
CBC
22-03-2025
- Politics
- CBC
Why these island nations want ecocide to become an international crime
Environmental destruction should be on the same level as genocide and war crimes, a group of island nations argues. "We don't take damage to nature seriously enough. We don't even take nature seriously enough," Jojo Mehta, co-founder and CEO of Stop Ecocide International, told What On Earth. The South Pacific country of Vanuatu, backed by its fellow island nations of Fiji and Samoa, is pushing to have ecocide recognized by the International Criminal Court (ICC), the independent court based in The Hague, Netherlands, responsible for prosecuting individuals who are charged with the gravest crimes. Ecocide is defined as the destruction of large areas of the natural environment as a consequence of human activity. The proposal, made in September 2024, seeks to have ecocide recognized alongside the four crimes under the ICC's jurisdiction through the Rome Statute: genocide, crimes against humanity, war crimes, and the crime of aggression. It would allow for the prosecution of individuals accused of committing the worst environmental destruction. "We see that law as having always been necessary. But we're just coming to the point now where people are realizing it must be in place," said Mehta. But opinions are mixed on whether making ecocide a recognized crime would make a difference. Vulnerability Payam Akhavan, a professor of international law at the University of Toronto, says these island nations are some of the most at risk. "Small island states are the canary in the coal mine of climate catastrophe," said Akhavan. "Some of the low-lying islands … are literally going to be fully submerged in the foreseeable future, they will be swallowed by the ocean. So it's no exaggeration to say that for small island states, climate change and environmental harm is an existential threat." Mehta says this push for ecocide to be recognized by the ICC is in addition to another legal initiative at the United Nations' International Court of Justice, which is looking at how much nation-states are responsible for human rights and climate change. "There's a very clear and very concrete wish on the part of those islands to put something in place that actually creates a degree of safety and creates a kind of guardrail," said Mehta. Why make it an international crime? The term "ecocide" was first used in 1970, in reference to the damage done by the U.S. military's use of the Agent Orange chemical herbicide during the Vietnam War. Akhavan says it would have extended to incidents like Russia destroying the Kakhovka Dam near Kherson, Ukraine, in 2023, or when former Iraqi president Saddam Hussein ordered the spilling of 11 million barrels of crude oil into the Persian Gulf in 1991, for example. Many countries around the world already have environment-specific laws. But according to Mehta, it's "not proving adequate." She says it's going to take a cultural shift, and putting ecocide alongside some of the world's worst crimes will impact people's perspectives. "Criminal law taps into the moral and ethical sense that we have in society what is acceptable, what is not, what is bad, what is good, what is wrong, what is right," said Mehta. "So criminalizing something is saying something quite powerful." Mehta says this would put companies on notice, as a charge of ecocide is more powerful than just a fine. It would come with a larger moral stigma. According to Stop Ecocide International, once a country ratifies ecocide as a crime at the international level, they are likely to incorporate it into their domestic legislation. Other crimes under the ICC come with a sentence of imprisonment for life. The ICC is a court of last resort, when nations can't or won't prosecute cases involving the most serious crimes. But Mehta believes that having ecocide under ICC jurisdiction could serve as a deterrent. That would have the potential to impact a company's reputation and, she says, its stock value. "If we put ecocide alongside crimes against humanity and genocide, what we're saying is it's just as bad, wrong, dangerous to severely destroy ecosystems as it is to commit those other crimes." Would it make a difference? Akhavan isn't so sure this is a magic bullet. He's also a former United Nations prosecutor in The Hague, a former special adviser to the ICC, and recently served as legal counsel in a climate-related case before the International Court of Justice, the UN's main judicial body. "We have to understand that creating deterrence at the global level is a very long-term historical project," said Akhavan. "It's not something that's going to be achieved with the wave of a magic wand by simply including the crime of ecocide." There is ongoing diplomatic conversation around whether to include ecocide as the fifth crime under the Rome Statute, the international treaty that established the ICC. To amend the statute, two-thirds of the 125 member states must approve it, which includes Canada but not the U.S., Russia or China. "I think other states may be reluctant to expand the remit of the courts," said Akhavan. He says some may be concerned about how ecocide could be interpreted and applied. Others may worry that the ICC already struggles to prosecute crimes that currently fall under its statutes. He believes national legislation is the most important area of legal activity, as even if ecocide is recognized by the ICC, it may take years of debate and discussion. But Mehta says it's a "key piece" of the puzzle. "It's not just symbolic. Shifting that mindset is actually a very practical thing that needs to happen. So we would say that it's about putting in place a ground rule that should always have been there.… And it's one that needs to be in place going forward into the future."
The Guardian
14-03-2025
- Entertainment
- The Guardian
You're Embarrassing Yourself by Desiree Akhavan audiobook review – a devastatingly honest and funny memoir
A funny, candid and often heartbreaking essay collection, You're Embarrassing Yourself documents mortifying episodes in the life of Iranian-American film-maker and actor Desiree Akhavan's life, dating back to childhood when she was voted the ugliest girl in her school. Her book is partly a letter to her younger self, whom she reassures that her face and body 'will settle into something you'll be able to live with by the time you're 30', and a paean to readers who 'clutch the moniker 'loser' close to [their] heart. At first, it'll feel like a handicap, but eventually it'll transform into a superpower, because being on the outside offers up the best vantage point from which to observe and skewer.' Akhavan narrates, her compelling delivery veering between archly amused, as she recalls her more ludicrous moments, and mournful, as she relives the damage she inflicted on herself in her formative years. At college, she had anorexia and bulimia; at this time her parents also persuaded her to have surgery to reduce the size of her nose. Eventually Akhavan joined a recovery programme for her eating disorders where she looked at the other patients and thought 'what a tragic bunch of basic bitches … It took me weeks to realise they were all me. I was staring at 13 Desirees.' While this is no tale of redemption, age brings a degree of acceptance of herself and her flaws. 'I'll always be embarrassing but I'm beginning to lose my embarrassment. The sharp sting of humiliation grows dull when you realise you're going to keep making a fool of yourself, because that's what it is to be alive.' Available via 4th Estate, 5hr 19min Eight WeeksLola Young, Penguin Audio, 8hr 23min Baroness Young reads her account of growing up in the British care system, being rejected by her birth parents and her path to the House of Lords. MiddlemarchGeorge Eliot, SNR Audio, 32hr 41minEliot's sweeping tale of industry and social change, as witnessed by the residents of a fictional town in the Midlands, is read by Lucy Scott.
NBC News
27-02-2025
- Health
- NBC News
The best retinol hand creams for smooth, firm skin, according to dermatologists
Between sun exposure and frequent hand washing, the skin on your hands goes through a lot. Just like you've created a skin care routine for your face, using hand-specific formulas is essential to keeping this area soft, healthy and resilient. One beneficial ingredient many experts point to may be one you're already familiar with: retinol. 'The skin on our hands is prone to roughness and thinning,' says Dr. Arash Akhavan, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City. 'Retinol promotes faster skin cell renewal and collagen generation, leading to smoother, firmer-looking skin with consistent use.' To help you find the right retinol hand creams, I talked to skin experts about what to look for in a quality formula, and included their recommendations for the best ones to shop. How we picked the best retinol hand creams The best retinol hand creams are hydrating without being irritating, according to our experts. Here's what they recommend I keep in mind when curating this list: Ingredient lists: Retinol goes well with certain ingredients when it comes to the skin on the hands, one of them being hyaluronic acid. 'Hyaluronic acid is ideal to pair with retinol, which can be drying, because it can help hydrate and plump the look of skin,' says Yadav. Peptides, the building blocks of protein, are another ingredient to look for in a retinol hand cream. Peptides support retinol's effects and counteract the dryness that often comes along with its use, says Yadav. Finally, shea butter, a natural substance derived from the seeds of the shea plant, has emollient properties that prevent water from escaping the skin, according to Yadav, who says that it also helps keep skin soft, comfortable and less reactive to retinol's drying effects. Retinol concentration: In general, the retinol concentration in a hand cream will be less than what you'd see in a face cream. Typical strengths in a hand cream may be below 0.3% while facial retinol products can be up to 1%, says Akhavan. 'The lower concentration for hand creams is necessary because the skin on the hands is thinner and more frequently exposed to environmental stressors, making it more prone to irritation,' says Akhavan. If your skin leans very sensitive, it may be best to choose a retinol hand cream with a lower concentration, especially if you're a frequent hand washer or your hands are exposed to the sun often. The best retinol hand creams in 2025 Necessaire The Hand Retinol If you're looking for a potent retinol hand cream, this Necessaire formula is a good option. It combines 0.25% retinol with resurfacing AHAs to remove dark spots and even the skin tone, says Akhavan, who recommends this formula because it's lightweight and quick-absorbing. 'With regular use this product can address crepiness, wrinkles, spots and brittle cuticles,' he says. French skincare brand Odacite's retinol-infused hand cream comes recommended by Yadav, who says the rich formula combines retinol with peptides (for firming), PHA (a gentle resurfacing agent), niacinamide (for brightening) and hyaluronic acid (for hydration). 'It also has a blend of nourishing plant oils and butters, making it best for hands that are especially dry,' she says. Even though this hand cream comes in a tub (versus a tube like the others on our list), it has a push-top that dispenses the product in a sanitary fashion. This hand cream has encapsulated retinol, which Akhavan says ensures a gradual release to minimize potential irritation. 'This is a particularly good hand retinol choice for people with sensitive skin, as the special slow release formulation of the retinol increases tolerability,' he says. While this formula has a thinner consistency and may not feel deeply moisturizing on scaly, cracked skin, it's lightweight and absorbs quickly, according to the brand. This hand cream is a two-in-one formula that moisturizes dry hands and strengthens the nails and cuticles. It has a warm, spicy scent and comes in a refillable jar, making it great for those looking to be more conscious with their beauty products. A blend of colloidal oatmeal and panthenol balances out the 0.05% retinol — just keep in mind that this isn't a hand cream suitable for sunburnt or sensitive skin, according to the brand. 'I love the way this bottle looks on my nightstand,' says Schneider, who received a sample from Soft Services. 'I'm more inclined to use it regularly since I can leave it out right next to my bed. The cream goes on really nicely and since it's on the thinner side, it's easy to rub in. I hate overly thick formulas that require a lot of massaging.' Chantecaille Retinol Hand Cream In addition to shea butter and retinol, this formula has mulberry extract and vitamin C, 'one of the most valuable antioxidants that provides protection from free radical damage,' and brightens and promotes collagen production for firmer, smoother skin, says Yadav. It also has tree bark extract, which helps reduce the appearance of discoloration, according to the brand. Retinol concentration: not listed | Key ingredients: shea butter, mulberry root, vitamin C, tree bark extract How to shop for retinol hand creams When shopping, our experts recommend looking at several factors, including the types of moisturizers used and any additional benefits of the formula. Moisturizer type is important Moisturizers come in three forms: humectants, emollients and occlusives. The hand cream you choose should incorporate one or more of these types of moisturizers, and the one you pick should depend on your specific needs and preferences. Humectants: Humectants, like hyaluronic acid and glycerin, help draw moisture into the skin to maintain optimal hydration levels since retinol can be drying. In a hand cream, humectants can also contribute to a formula's thinner consistency and lightweight feel. Emollients: Emollients, including shea butter and squalane, help soften and smooth rough, dry skin by filling in small gaps in the skin barrier. Emollients can also help combat irritation and redness, making them a good choice for those with sensitive or severely dry skin. Occlusives: Occlusives, like petrolatum and dimethicone, create a protective barrier that seals in moisture and prevents dehydration, says Akhavan. Consider alternate key benefits While the main benefit of a hand cream is to hydrate the skin, a retinol hand cream comes with the added benefit of combatting fine lines and improving skin texture. Some retinol hand creams pair the ingredient with skin barrier-repairing ingredients to strengthen the skin over time and thus, prevent long-term dehydration. Other formulas have brightening ingredients that make them ideal for those battling sun spots. Retinol hand creams can also help boost collagen production, which is good for minimizing the appearance of wrinkles and firming the skin. 'Collagen provides important structural support to our skin that helps it look firm and resilient — without it, skin appears thin with more noticeable texture from fine lines and wrinkles,' says Yadav. Meet our experts At NBC Select, we work with experts who have specialized knowledge and authority based on relevant training and/or experience. We also take steps to ensure all expert advice and recommendations are made independently and without undisclosed financial conflicts of interest. Dr. Geeta Yadav is a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Facet Dermatology in Toronto, Canada; her areas of research include skin of color and conditions like atopic dermatitis and psoriasis. Dr. Arash Akhavan is a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist and owner of The Dermatology and Laser Group in New York City; his areas of expertise include non-invasive and minimally-invasive cosmetic procedures of the face, neck and body, as well as in the detection and management of skin cancer and skin lesions. Why trust NBC Select? Michelle Rostamian has more than 10 years of experience covering beauty and skin care topics. For this story, Rostamian spoke to board-certified dermatologists and included their direct recommendations and products based on their guidance.
Buzz Feed
28-01-2025
- Health
- Buzz Feed
7 Mouthwashes That Dentists Say Are Actually Effective
We hope you love our recommendations! Some may have been sent as samples, but all were independently selected by our editors. Just FYI, BuzzFeed and its publishing partners may collect a share of sales and/or other compensation from the links on this page. They told us who needs it, the ingredients you should be looking for and which ones to avoid. Nothing can replace a dental health routine that makes brushing and flossing a priority. And if you're especially particular about having fresh breath and clean teeth, you're probably using mouthwash, too. But according to New York City-based dentist Dr. Azadeh Akhavan, most people might not actually need mouthwash since it's not as effective a way to rid teeth of plaque compared to the act of physical brushing. However, for some, it can be an important routine addition, especially for people dealing with specific oral health concerns. For instance, she said that 'anyone who is especially prone to caries (cavities) or have dental sensitivity, a fluoride-containing mouthwash can help to strengthen the teeth and prevent cariogenic bacteria from demineralizing the enamel, which is the protective outer coating of the tooth.' Another reason Akhavan shared is dry mouth, which can be caused by certain medications or treatments. She said this is because bacteria binds more readily to teeth in mouths that are dry, resulting in bacterial colonies that promote cavities or problems with the gums and supporting bone. But whatever your particular reason for using it, she said mouthwash should be used at the end of your oral hygiene routine. 'The fluoride and antimicrobial agents in mouthwash are only effective when they remain on oral surfaces for at least 30 minutes,' she said. This especially applies to dry mouth-focused preparations. She also cautioned that many mouthwash brands contain potentially harmful ingredients. Some of these include alcohols, abrasive charcoals, and cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC), an effective antibacterial that became popular during the COVID pandemic but can cause brown stains that have to be cleaned off professionally. Conversely, Akhavan assured us that there are dentist-approved formulas you can look for that can be particularly useful, whatever your condition. In the list ahead, find rinses that are great for gingivitis, dry mouth, cavities, and more. 1. A remineralization oral rinse Amazon "My practice uses the CariFree mouthwashes as they balance pH, help dry mouth and aid in balancing bacterial load/aiding in gingivitis prevention," said Dr. Inna Chern of Manhattan's New York General Dentistry. This anti-cavity oral rinse contains fluoride and xylitol, both essentials in fighting bacteria, and has an elevated pH to neutralize decay-causing acids in the mouth. Get it from Amazon for $17.09 (available in three flavors). 2. A whitening fluoride rinse Amazon "I encourage patients to use mouthwash containing fluoride when they are at risk of [cavities] or have dental sensitivity," said New York City-based dentist Dr. Azadeh Akhavan, recommending ACT as a good mouthwash to use for its fluoride-containing formula. In addition to fluoride, this particular anti-cavity preparation helps to whiten teeth with the use of hydrogen peroxide, an effective stain-lifting agent that Akhavan said should be avoided only in high concentrations because it has the potential to abrade enamel. This popular zero-alcohol rinse also contains bacteria-fighting xylitol and glycerin. Get it from Walmart for $7.18. 3. An oral rinse for dry mouth Amazon "For individuals undergoing radiation therapy or taking medications that cause dry mouth, regular use of a mouthwash containing a wetting agent is important for keeping the mouth moist," Akhavan said. Bacteria binds more readily to teeth in a dry mouth, resulting in bacterial colonies that promote cavities or problems with the gums and supporting bone. In cases like these, Akhavan suggests Biotene oral rinse because it contains glycerol, a mouth moisturizer that quickly soothes and lubricates the mouth for up to four hours. The brand also claims this formula works to help maintain a balanced pH in the mouth. "Biotene or any mouth-wetting mouthwash should also stay on the teeth as long as possible, without dilution, for maximal effectiveness. So ideally, mouthwash should be used prior to bedtime with no rinsing after use," she added. 4. A pH-balancing mouthwash with xylitol Cleure Akhavan also said baking soda and xylitol are two great mouthwash ingredients. "Baking soda decreases the pH of saliva and discourages bacterial growth and xylitol prevents the binding of bacteria to the teeth," she explained. One brand she liked is no longer in production, but we spotted this pH-balancing mouthwash by Cleure that features baking soda and xylitol and is free from Akhavan's less-favored ingredients like alcohol and acidic fruit flavorings that can erode enamel over time. This simple-ingredient mouthwash also contains glycerin, a popular hydrator that can help address dry mouth. 5. An alcohol-free wash good for gingivitis According to Chern, mouthwashes that contain certain essential oils, including thymol, eucalyptol, menthol, and methyl salicylates, are great for anyone who has or is prone to gingivitis. This Total Care option from Listerine contains all four of those oils in addition to fluoride in order to protect against cavities — all without the inclusion of alcohol, which Chern said can cause or exacerbate dry mouth. "If you have a high risk of cavities, mouthwashes with extra fluoride or nano-hydroxyapatite are excellent in preventing future cavities," Chern said. Get it from Amazon for $8+ (available in two sizes). 6. A nano hydroxyapatite oil pulling rinse Amazon "If you have a high risk of cavities, mouthwashes with extra fluoride or nano-hydroxyapatite are excellent in preventing future cavities," Chern said. Although she didn't recommend one wash in particular, we found this oral pulling rinse containing nano-hydroxyapatite that, unlike most oil-pulling products, promises that it won't clog your bathroom sink drains. Oil pulling, the practice of swishing oil around your mouth each day, is an ancient Ayurvedic practice that has some research to support it can help keep the mouth clean, freshen breath and improve overall oral health. Get it from Amazon for $27.95 (available in two flavors). 7. Mouthwash tablets with hydroxyapatite and probiotics Amazon "One thing that will be interesting to watch is hydroxyapatite, an ingredient that some toothpastes are starting to include," Akhavan said. "Very preliminary studies suggest that it may be as effective as fluoride toothpaste in strengthening the enamel." Based on this mention, we tracked down Boka's convenient mouthwash tablets that contain hydroxyapatite instead of fluoride to help remineralize teeth without stripping the mouth of important microbes. The Boka tablets, which don't require water to use, also contain dentist-preferred ingredients like baking soda and xylitol.
