Unilever N.V.Rotterdam, The Netherlands (NYSE: UN)

Moisturizer Study Questioned - A recent study by Rutgers and published in The Journal of Investigative Dermatology suggests that some skin moisturizers may increase cancer risk. The study exposed hairless mice to UVB radiation, then applied moisturizer to the animals. The study concluded that mice treated with moisturizer were more likely to develop tumors than mice treated with a placebo. German personal care product firm Beiersdorf AG dismissed the study as "clinically not relevant."

Producer, Consumer Prices Remain Stable - US producer and consumer prices for personal care items remain fairly stable despite some higher raw material costs. Producer prices for cosmetics and other toilet preparations declined 0.1 percent in July 2008 compared to July 2007, as consumer prices for cosmetics, perfume, bath, and nail preparations also declined 0.1 percent. Produce prices for hair preparations rose 2.2 percent; consumer prices for hair, dental, and shaving increased 0.7 percent. Stable producer and consumer prices for personal care items may suggest a reluctance to raise prices amid intense competition.

Trade Show to Highlight Natural, Organic Products - The annual HBA (health and beauty aids) Global Expo will feature several forums and sessions to help personal care product manufacturers learn more about developing natural and organic products, which have become increasingly popular among consumers. Programs offered at the expo will include insight into consumer trends in natural products, entering the certified organic market space, sustainable ingredients and packaging, and international opportunities.