Å·±¦ÓéÀÖ

Unlike ancient times when a fragrance almost always contained a single herb mixed with a carrier oil, today, the fragrance world of natural perfumes uses various plant-based ingredients to create a unique scent representing the product made by a brand. Typical ingredients in a natural perfume will include plant extracts that capture the plant’s scent. Examples may consist of orange blossom, roses, lavender, or jasmine. These normally form the top note of the perfume, which a consumer experiences immediately.

These ingredients are mixed with highly concentrated oil-soluble plant extracts, which are used for their rich, long-lasting scents. These will form the middle notes, and examples may include absolutes of jasmine or rose.

The base note that adds to the depth and longevity of the fragrance often contains balsams and resins like benzoin, myrrh, and frankincense. These are our popular Biblical favorites referred to in the Bible verses.

Some perfume makers add fresh, zesty scents from citrus oils like bergamot, lemon, and orange. Others add earthy and spicy notes like patchouli, cinnamon, clove, or vanilla to warm and sweeten the fragrance. Amber is sometimes added to give a warm, woody, and slightly sweet scent.

Orange blossom

Citrus-derived oils, extracts, juices, powders, waxes, and water are widely used as cosmetic ingredients. Popular citrus plants include lemon, Citrus aurantifolia, grapefruit, orange, bergamot orange, and bitter orange. The peel of the fruit, flowers, and even the leaves are used to extract aromatic essential oils.

Citrus aurantifolia’s orange blossoms are white and used as a top note in perfumes. The floral scent has bitter top notes of green citrus. The entire bitter orange tree is used in perfume making. The peel is used to make essential oil, the leaves petitgrain oil, and the flowers are used to make neroli oil and orange blossom absolute.

The blossoms are hand-picked in the spring when they are at their peak. The petals are distilled with water vapor to extract the essential oil known as neroli. It takes a thousand pounds of flowers to make a pound of essential oil. The oil is used in perfumes, cosmetics, cooking, flavoring cakes, jams, and other food products. The Neroli perfume starts sour but becomes sweet and floral.

According to Grandview Research, the global citrus market was $4 billion. It is projected to grow at a CAGR of 6.1 percent and touch $6 billion by 2032. Citrus essential oils are used in aromatherapy, cleaning products for their natural antimicrobial and bactericidal properties, flavoring agents, and personal care and beauty products. Citrus flavonoids have anti-cancer and anti-inflammation properties. (Manthey, J. A, et al. 2001)

Citrus use dates to ancient Rome and Greece. Theophrastus said that the fruit of the citron tree, when placed among clothes, kept them from being eaten by moths. It was also used as a breath freshener, and the inner part of the fruit was boiled to form a sauce to give it a fresh taste. (Arias, B A, et al., 2005)

Citrus essential oils can photosensitize the skin. Avoid using them in skin care products if you spend time in direct sunlight after application. The fragrance blends floral, woody, herbal, and spicy notes.

Learn more about fragrances and top, middle, and base notes in , available on Amazon. It is the second book in the series.

The post appeared first on .

Floral fragrances are one of the most popular and broadest families of fragrances.ÌýThey can range from light and delicate to more complex and intense. Many of these are used as top notes in fragrances. Floral notes can also be used as heart notes, which are the main body of the fragrance.

Top notes usually make up about twenty to forty percent of the blend, middle notes -fifty to seventy-five percent, and base notes make up the balance five to ten percent. Middle notes emerge after the top notes have evaporated and establish the perfume’s character. They can include floral, fruity, or spicy scents.

Rose, jasmine, lily of valley, sweet pea, lilac, gardenia, magnolia, freesia, honeysuckle, lavender, orange blossom, tuberose, ylang-ylang, patchouli, frangipani, violet, carnations, cloves, wisteria, privet flowers, and neroli are some of the popular flowers used to in floral fragrances.

The top notes are freesia, honeysuckle, lavender, lilac, orange blossom, and sweet pea. Middle notes fragrances, which form the perfume’s heart, come from carnations, gardenia, jasmine, lily of the valley, magnolia, rose, tuberose, violet, wisteria, and ylang-ylang.

Cloves, frangipani, patchouli, and privet flowers give the fragrance lingering scents, which are also known as base notes.

The global floral fragrance industry is expected to grow toÌý$25 billion by 2032, up from $15 billion in 2023. The global floral extract market is expected to grow to $4,832.8 million by 2034, up from $2,818.9 million in 2023.Ìý(Future Markets Insights)

Freesia

Freesia is a perennial herbaceous flowering plant in the Iridaceae family. Some say it represents innocence and friendship, while others regard it as a symbol of thoughtfulness, perseverance, and high spirits.

Christian Fredrich Ecklon first described the Freesia genus in 1866. The genus was named after Fredrich Freese, a German botanist and medical practitioner from 1795 to 1876. The plant is native to the Southern African region. It is a garden plant that prefers mild climates. It is a popular indoor potted plant and is used as cut flowers. Freesia flowers have a delicate and sweet fragrance, which is used in perfumes, colognes, and other personal care products. There are multiple species of Freesia flowering plants.

Freesia is often used as a top note in perfumes such as Dior J’adore, a classic scent that uses this note to give it a light, floral touch. Other examples include Gucci Flora and Les Creations de Monsieur Dior Forever and Ever. In the last-mentioned example, jasmine is the middle note tincture of rose in the base, and freesia is the top note.

Freesia also balances other fragrances and pairs well with jasmine, rose, amber, and musk.

To learn more about fragrances, check out on Amazon.

Ìý

The post appeared first on .

Continuing on skincare facts: Moisturizers are skin care products that break the dry skin cycle and help maintain skin smoothness. In some cases, dryness may be linked to an impaired barrier function. Once applied to the skin, the ingredients can stay on the surface and be absorbed into the skin. These can be metabolized or disappear from the surface by evaporation. Moisturizers can be sloughed off in contact with other materials. (Loden, M. 2003)

Moisturizers make the skin smooth by helping retain water in the outer skin and maintaining normal skin pH. They are a cosmetic product class that bridges the gap between medicine and consumer products. Moisturizers render the skin beautiful and healthy. They are used on normal and dry skin and are effective in skin that appears tight, stinging, itchy, and tingling.

I did find references to the use of moisturizing lotion in the Bible. Proverbs 27:9-19 says, “Just as lotions and fragrances give sensual delight, a sweet friendship refreshes the soul.� Based on the review of the verses of the Bible, we learn that several ingredients were used to moisturize and treat skin conditions.

Frankincense is a popular fragrant gum derived from several species of the Boswellia genus. It is used on both young and mature skin. Frankincense balances oil and dry skin and improves skin tone and condition.

Myrrh is another popular aromatic gum made from trees belonging to the Commiphora genus. These trees were extensively available throughout the Middle East, from Africa to Oman and even as far east as India. Myrrh moisturizes and helps tone, heal, and rejuvenate the skin. Queen Esther received cosmetic treatment with myrrh before marrying King Xerxes.

“Before a young woman’s turn came to go into King Xerxes, she had to complete twelve months of beauty treatments prescribed for the women, six months with oil of myrrh and six with perfumes and cosmetics� Esther 2:12

Almond oil is another popular moisturizer whose history dates to the Bible. Almonds are rich in Vitamin E, which is good for dry skin and keeps it nourished and wrinkle-free. Cypress, cedar, and sycamore trees are extensively found in Southern Europe and the Middle East.

Multiple verses from the Bible refer to the use of these trees in medicine and skin care. Oil was extracted from the bark and needles of these trees. The oils have antimicrobial and medicinal properties. Today, oil from these plants is popular in skin moisturizing products.

Moisturizers have three core classes of ingredients � humectants, emollients, and occlusives.

Humectants are substances that bind and hold water in the upper skin layer. They are good for oily skin and skin prone to acne and other conditions. This class of moisturizing ingredients does not leave a film on the skin that can clog the pores. HumectantsÌýattract and hold water and keep the skin moist. Some humectants are naturally found in the body, including hyaluronic acid and sodium PCA.

Emollients are unperfumed substances that soften and soothe the skin and treat dry, flaky skin. Cosmetic products like lotions, lipsticks, and other products contain emollients. Emollients prevent skin splits and chipping off. These compounds occupy the spaces in the skin with greasy substances, making the skin smoother and gentler.

Occlusives create a physical barrier on the skin, keeping it hydrated and moist. They help when the skin is dry, flaky, and itchy. Petroleum jelly is an example of an occlusive. Beeswax is another example. It thickens oil into balm and soothes skin cracks and fissures. Other common occlusives are shea butter, cocoa butter, ceramides, squalane, argan, olive, and jojoba oils.

You can dive deep into the world of cosmetics and learn more in my book �

The post appeared first on .

In 3000 BC, Queen Hatshepsut of Egypt sent expeditions to Africa for myrrh, frankincense, and herbs. In that era, aromatic resins and scented botanicals were used in religious ceremonies, burials, and personal adornment. Herbs and spices were among the leading imports from India to the Mediterranean region powers of Egypt, Greece, and Rome.

In ancient times, logistics was a challenge, but a vibrant international trade existed despite it. Intrepid merchants from India undertook the journey to Mesopotamia in small boats laden with herbs and spices. Deep sea voyaging was too dangerous, so boats hugged the coastline. The onward journey to Palestine and Lebanon was done by land. Donkeys and then camels were the preferred modes of transport. The supply chain extended from Alexandria to Egypt and Rome.

With the discovery of the monsoon winds, travelers and merchants began relatively quickly crossing the Indian Ocean, reaching the shores of Arabia. Camels brought goods to the thriving empires of the Middle East and Southern Europe.

Perfumes and fragrances were the preserve of the rich, powerful, and mighty—kings and queens. They and the nobility were the primary consumers of these expensive herbs. Myrrh, frankincense, calamus, onycha, saffron, cedar, and sandalwood were a few of the most popular fragrances and incense. These aromatic resins and scented botanicals were used in religious ceremonies, burial preparations, and personal adornment.

Nefertem (an Egyptian God) was appointed the ‘Lord of Perfume.� Aromatic woods, fruits, and even local flowers were used as fragrances. The Indians, Chinese, and Ancient Egyptians pioneered using perfume, herbs, and spices for medicinal purposes. Incenses were burnt in temples, mansions, and palaces to perfume and for their health-giving properties.

Fragrances and herbs were expanded to the general populace in Ancient China and India. The Bible has several references to perfumes and fragrances. Most people are familiar with the verse describing the magi’s visit, bringing gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh on the birth of Jesus.

Eccelsiasticus 24:13-17, Revelation 5:8, Song of Songs 4:14, and many other verses have references to cassia, myrrh, galbanum, onycha, styrax, aloes, sweet cane, spikenard, gum tragacanth, balm, saffron, and cinnamon.

Fragrances and herbs were used as defenses against deadly diseases like Bubonic plague and other infections. Doctors would fill their bird-like masks with oils, herbs, and spices and wear them like ancient PPEs. Alchemists began conjuring secret formulas containing ingredients imported from Asia.

Chemists took over and began producing contemporary notes such as cardamom, clove, cocoa, and vanilla. Italy, Spain, Paris, and France emerged as the center of fragrance and perfume.

Manufacturers of fragrances, scented powder, and perfumed gloves also contributed to the history of perfume. They developed their trade and took advantage of novel floral ingredients such as carnation, lavender, rose, and jasmine, to name just a few. Gradually, the perfume industry began targeting middle-class women. Perfumery was still regarded as an art and trade of luxury goods. Chemical synthesis triggered new processes and unique fragrance blends. The industry grew, and brands emerged.

Synthetic fragrance compounds were discovered in the nineteenth century, revolutionizing perfumery and creating new scents. A rich tapestry of scents that reflected the tastes of various classes and groups emerged, and this is how the fragrance world evolved over the millennia.

Read more on the fragrance world in Holy Beauty:

The post appeared first on .

Cleanser skincare products are more than just a way to remove dirt and makeup. They are outcomes of scientific innovationÌýand contain surfactants and cleansing agents. Surfactants may damage protein structures and solubilize lipids.

Soaps are the oldest surfactants and are quite aggressive. Harsh surfactants in cleansers can damage skin proteins and lipids, leading to tightness, dryness, barrier damage, irrigation, and even itch after the wash.

Synthetic detergents and surfactant types are anionic, cationic, amphoteric, and non-ionic.

Cleansers should minimize surfactant damage by depositing and delivering beneficial agents such as occlusives, skin lipids, and humectants under wash conditions to improve skin hydration. Cleansers are available in creams, foams, oils, balms, micellar waters, and wipes. They contain multiple ingredients, including carrier oils, used as a base for other products. They contain:

Exfoliants � chemical and physicalHydrating ingredients such as glycerin, ceramides, and hyaluronic acidVitamins and anti-aging ingredients like retinol, a vitamin A derivative that stimulates collagen production in the skin.

We have cleansers that are attracted to water or oil. The former are called hydrophilic, and the latter are calledÌýlipophilic.

Surfactants that interact minimally with both skin lipids and proteins are especially mild. Cleansers with close to normal or acidic pH of around 5.5 are less damaging to the skin. Hydrating ingredients replenish the skin’s lipids during the wash period. (Ananthapadmanabhan, K P. et al., 2004)

Let us examine the ingredients used in surfactants.

Anionic ingredients

Surfactants are used in cleansers, emulsifiers, stabilizers, and industrial chemicals. When they dissolve in water, they lower the interfacial tension, which helps them clean. Some of the popular ionic surfactants used in skin cleansers include:

Sodium C14-16 alpha olefin sulfonateÌýis one of the mildest surfactants. It is poorly absorbed into the skin and is regarded as one of the safest and mostÌýenvironmentally friendly ingredients used in hair care products and sometimes in skincare and cosmetics.

Disodium laureth sulfosuccinate is also mild and is used in hair care products, shaving creams, and cleansers for babies or sensitive skin. It produces a great lather and has great foaming properties.

Used as a cleansing agent in hair care products and sometimes in skincare and cosmetics.

Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) and Benzalkonium chloride are the two prominent surfactants used in the market.

Some popular anionic surfactants used in skin cleansers, body wash, and other associated products include:

Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) isÌýa popular cleansing agent in many products, including facial cleansers, shampoos, and body washes.ÌýIt is produced from coconut, palm kernel, or petroleum. Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) has good cleansing power but can irritate the skin and eyes. It is a foaming agentÌýthat traps oil and dirt from the skin and hair, which can be rinsed away with water. The chemical is generally safe but can sometimes cause allergies. (Bondi, C A. et al., 2015). It is best to use moisturizers after using cleansers. (De Paepe, K. et al., 2002)

Several other ionic ingredients are used in skin cleansers. These include sodium lauryl sulfoacetate, sodium cocoyl glycinate, disodium/sodium cocoyl glutamate, decyl glucoside, lauryl glucoside, sodium laureth sulfate, sodium lauroyl sarcosinate, and sodium cocoyl isethionate.

Anionic surfactants are often combined with non-ionic and amphoteric surfactants to reduce their irritancy potential.ÌýBiosurfactants, surface-active molecules derived from natural sources, are another option that can be as effective as sulfates but are gentler on the skin and environmentally friendly.

Nonionic ingredients

These ingredients are well suited for use on the face because they are nontoxic to the eyeÌýand milder than anionic and cationic surfactants. The commonly used nonionic surfactants in skin cleansers are Poloxamer 188, Pluronic F 68, Declyglucoside, and alkyl ethers or polyethylene glycol. These ingredients are more appropriate for wound care.

These surfactants are more biocompatible than other types. They effectively remove oils due to their low foaming and penetrative wetting abilities. These ingredients act as emulsifiers and foaming agents; they are stable and maintain aÌýpH up to the physiological pH of 7.35 to 7.45, which is ideal for biological processes, including blood oxygenation.

Surfactants are used in many products besides cleansers, including shampoos, toothpaste, body washes, and cosmetics. Prolonged use of strong or harsh surfactants should be avoided because they can permanently alter the cell structure of the skin surface.

Poloxamer 188, for instance, is a synthetic copolymer molecule used in facial cleansers and other skincare products. It helps water mix with oil and dirt on the skin, allowing it to be rinsed away. It is a foam booster or stabilizer that helps create stable products, prevents the growth of microorganisms, and extends the shelf life of products. The ingredients can keep makeup from caking and the skin from drying.

Cationic ingredients

These harsh surfactants are commonly used in household products rather than skin cleansers. They can damage the skin, especially if the skin barrier is already damaged. However, they make good conditioners, particularly in hair care products.

Amphoteric ingredients

These are less irritating to the skin and eyes and are commonly used in gentle cleansers for sensitive skin, baby products, and facial cleansers. They are also used in hair shampoos, conditioners, liquid soaps, shower gels, and creams. Cocamidopropyl betaine, lauryl betaine, sodium cocoamphoacetate, and disodium cocoamphodiacetate are some of the more popular ingredients.

You can use the information to check the ingredients list on your cleanser product and pick the one that works best for you.

Learn more about cosmetics and skincare on � Holy Beauty: .

The post appeared first on .

Cleansing the skin is the primary and first step in skincare.

In prehistoric times, people removed dirt from their skin with water. Even at that early stage of human development, people understood from experience that cleaning dirt was needed. Maybe they took cues from animals visiting water bodies to cool or clean the dirt from their skin.

The concept of cleanliness has since evolved. We find documented references to cleaning in the Bible. Psalm 51:7 says, “Cleanse me with hyssop, and I will be clean; wash me, and I will be whiter than snow.� Even though most of the verses focus on spiritual cleaning, the mention of Hyssop probably indicates that the concept of cleaning had evolved by that time and extended beyond and included cleaning the mind and the spirit.

Our forefathers during Biblical times understood the value of keeping the body clean. Scientific studies have shown that the essential oil from Hyssop has anti-microbial properties. ()

Cleansing was practiced even in the early days of human existence for hygiene, religion, appearance, and vanity. It was also used to prevent illness and disease. Cleaning and washing are integral to most Hindu rituals. Like in the Bible, cleaning emphasizes both the spiritual and temporal. There are extensive references from ancient times to using herbs and other potions to heal the body from disease.

Cleaning extended to fragrance. Fragrant herbs like frankincense and myrrh were used to mask the odors of animal sacrifices in the First Ancient Jewish temple. Holy Anointing Oil, which contains cinnamon, cassia, and calamus, was used to anoint the Tabernacle and the priest in both the Jewish and Christian religions.

Priests in Ancient India used fragrant herbs to purify the area around sacred fires. Cleaning and washing the body before prayer was insisted upon. The area around sacred fires was kept fragrant with sandalwood and other herbs. Incense continues to be used in temples of all faiths.

Cleansers relax the mind and body. They improve and maintain skin health and appearance. Over 4000 years ago, the Hittites of Asia Minor cleaned their

hands with ash from the soapwort plant suspended in water.

Soapworts are flowering plants native to Asia and Europe. They belong to the Caryophyllaceae family and are rich in saponins, extensively used as biosurfactants in soaps and other industrial applications.

Saponins possess anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory, and related properties. () This chemical group is extensively used in detergents, textiles, paints, and cosmetics. The Hittites may not have understood the science behind these plants, but they found cleaning with soapworts good for their health.

The Sumerians of Ur began to produce alkali solutions for washing (Draelos Z D, 2000). Soaps contain alkali. The first modern soap preparation can be traced back to 600 BCE when the Phoenicians used saponified goat fat and water to clean.

Over time, the chemical industry began to thrive during the Industrial Revolution period. People found switching from natural products to synthetic chemicals in medicine and other cleaning products cheaper. Most skin cleansing products now begin using synthetic detergents.

This trend reversed as we realized natural ingredients were better for our health. Today, cleaners extensively use natural products. The market for these products is huge and rising. According to Fortune Business Insights, the global facial cleanser

market is expected to reach $23.45 billion in 2024 and grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.55% between 2024 and 2032.

There are many types of cleansers, but cream, clay, foaming, micellar, powder, and balm cleansers are today’s most popular. Cream cleaners are good for dry skin, and clay cleansers, as the name suggests, contain clay as a main ingredient. Clay helps remove impurities from the skin.

Foaming cleansers remove dirt and makeup without overdrying the skin. Micellar water cleansers are light and have a water-like texture. They contain tiny oil molecules to remove dirt and makeup and do not need to be rinsed off.

Powder cleansers are sold as powder. Mix them with a small amount of water to create a paste-like consistency before use. Balm cleansers, like oil cleansers, are ideal for double cleansing. Double cleansing removes makeup with a balm or oil cleanser, followed by a milk, cream, or gel cleanser to cleanse the skin thoroughly.

To learn more about skincare and cosmetics, check Holy Beauty-

The post appeared first on .

Our skin consists of an outer epidermis, middle dermis, and bottom layer composed of subcutaneous tissue rich in fats. In this lowermost layer lie hair follicles, sebaceous and sweat glands, nails, blood vessels, and nerves.

The outermost layer—the epidermis—comprises cells called keratinocytes and is arranged in four layers.

Stratum corneum is the outermost layer of the epidermis. The layer is flattened and dead, with closely arranged cells without a nucleus. These cells are called corneocytes. They are filled with keratin and connected by desmosomes. The spaces between them are sealed with lipids. The pH of the stratum corneum is around 4 to 5.5. Its cells naturally undergo continuous exfoliation.

The corneocytesÌýform the skin barrier with the binding lipids- cholesterol, fatty acids, and ceramides. This barrier prevents harmful environmental toxins and pathogens from penetrating the skin and harming the body. The skin barrier also acts as a shield that prevents the water inside the body from evaporating, leaving you dehydrated.

Corneocytes contain compounds with hygroscopic properties. Natural moisturizing factors (NMF) residing in corneocytes contain amino acids, pyroglutamic acid (PGA), sodium salt, urea, uric acid, and glucosamine.

When the skin barrier starts to function sub-optimally, the consequences can be severe. We experience dry, scaly skin, itchiness, inflamed areas, discolored or rough patches, acne, and bacterial, viral, or fungal skin infections. Repairing the skin barrier becomes a priority. Plant oilsÌýandÌýskin formulations that contain ceramides, hyaluronic acid, petrolatum, or glycerin can help in this process.

Below the stratum corneum are several levels of individual flattened cells. Keratin knots, responsible for the skin’s color, are formed here.

The next layer below is squamous and comprises several levels of strongly interconnected cells. Ceramides are produced here, which give the skin cohesiveness.

The lowermost fourth layer of the epidermis, the basal layer, is also known as the proliferative layer. It is a thin zone where the skin’s cells divide, contributing to its regeneration. The newly formed cells, including Langerhans cells, play a vital role in the immune system, protecting the skin and acting as receptors.

The skin protects the body from pathogens, sunlight radiation, chemicals, and mechanical injury. It cools itself through sweat and allows hot blood to move to the skin’s surface, nourishing it. A network of nerves in the skin transmits signals of touch, heat, pressure, cold, pain, and pleasure to the brain. The skin regenerates itself approximately every twenty-seven days.

Products for theÌýface and body differ. Body skin is generally thicker than facial skin, with the middle layer thicker on the back than on the eyelids. The fat layer under the skin is thicker on the body than on the face.

Body skin has a slower cell turnover rate, which can lead to drier, thicker, and scalier skin. Conversely, the face has more oil-producing sebaceous glands than the body, with the highest oil glands in the t-zone. Face skin is typically more sensitive than body skin. Facial skin is often exposed to direct sunlight, wind, and the environment and is, therefore, more prone to drying and aging. Our skin on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet is thickest. An extra layer called stratum lucidum is present in these parts of the body.

Skincare products have been used since ancient times to keep the skin healthy. The largest category of cosmetic products includes cleansers, moisturizers, serums, sunscreens, and masks. Skincare products focus on the skin, lip care, eyes, hair, and nails.

Read more on cosmetics and skin here on Holy Beauty

Ìý

The post appeared first on .

Generative Ai based Large Language Models will disrupt many sectors and industries.The customer care BPO industry was estimated to be US$22.6 billion in 2022. It is projected to grow at a CAGR of 7.5% and reach US$ 34.57 billion by 2030 (). The service caters to customer queries through various channels such as websites, social media, email, messaging, phone, live online chat, and text. The top ten leading companies as of 2022 are Accenture, Genpact, Teleperformance, Concentrix, Alorica, TTEC, HGS, Sutherland, Tech Mahindra, and Telus International. The top call center employing countries in 2023 are The Philippines, India, The US, Brazil, Ukraine, Argentia, Poland, and Malaysia ()

The evolution of the Cx BPO industry

In the late 1990s and early 2000s, the BPO was primarily driven by cost arbitrage, with companies outsourcing non-core functions to offshore locations to capitalize on lower labor costs. India emerged as a major hub, leveraging its English-speaking workforce and competitive advantage in IT-enabled services. This phase saw the rise of call centers and data entry services as dominant BPO offerings.

By the middle of the 2000s, companies began to recognize the critical importance of customer experience in fostering brand loyalty and competitiveness. The emphasis shifted from mere transactional interactions to creating value-added experiences for customers. It set the stage for further advancements in customer experience through technological innovation and process refinement.

The proliferation of high-speed internet connectivity has enabled seamless global communication and collaboration. It allowed BPO firms to operate distributedly, tapping into talent pools globally and providing 27/7 support to clients. The advent of cloud computing facilitated the storage and processing of vast amounts of customer data, leading to more personalized and responsive service delivery.

Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems have evolved from basic data repositories to comprehensive platforms integrating customer information, communication channels, and analytics. The systems enable BPO providers to manage interactions across various touchpoints, ensuring a unified and consistent customer experience.

AI and the impact of globalization

and automation technologies enable intelligent chatbots powered by Natural Language Processing (NLP) algorithms to handle routine inquiries, freeing human agents for more complex and value-added interactions. The BPO industry became more efficient and personalized, providing seamless customer interactions.

Globalization led to businesses expanding their global reach. BPO providers followed suit and established multi-location centers in strategic regions worldwide. It allowed companies to tap into diverse talent pools, leveraging language proficiency and cultural understanding to improve customer experience. Multi-location centers enhanced operational resilience. BPO firms distributed workloads across different regions to mitigate risks associated with geopolitical or economic fluctuations.

Consumers becoming more digitally savvy and connected they preferred seamless and omnichannel interactions. BPO providers responded and offered specialized services like social media management, chat support, and omnichannel customer engagement. The demand for domain-specific expertise led to the emergence of niche BPO firms catering to specific industries such as healthcare, finance, and e-commerce.

BPO providers understand that certain tasks are best suited for automation. In contrast, others require the empathy, creativity, and nuanced understanding only humans can provide. It has led to hybrid models where human agents work alongside automated systems. With automation, providers could handle high volumes of routine tasks with minimal manual intervention. It enabled the system to absorb spikes in customer inquiries. The combination of automation and humans helped ensure consistent service levels.

AI-driven analytics provide valuable information regarding customer behavior, preferences, and pain points. These insights help refine customer experience strategies, allowing BPO providers to make informed decisions on how to serve their clients best. It helps identify areas of improvement and address potential issues before they escalate. AI-driven analytics uncovers trends and patterns in customer feedback that provide valuable input for product development and service enhancements. The analytics help identify upsell and cross-sell opportunities.

Impact of LLMs

Generative Ai Large language models (LLMs) signify a substantial leap in the capabilities of automated systems for customer experience and engagement. They will revolutionize customer inquiry handling and promise a level of fluency and accuracy that was once considered unattainable. The models can comprehend and respond to diverse queries involving complex language and nuanced context. They will redefine the standard for automated customer interactions. BPO companies must integrate this capability to unlock new avenues for personalization and value-added interactions.

LLMs can comprehend context, handle ambiguity, and respond to queries in a manner that closely resembles human communication. The breakthrough will enable BPO providers to deploy chatbots and virtual assistants to engage in highly interactive and personalized customer conversations. With their multilingual capabilities and adeptness at handling diverse language styles, LLMs open up opportunities for BPO providers to cater to a global customer base more effectively. The capability extends to different communication channels, ensuring a seamless and consistent experience across various touchpoints.

Peaking into the future

Large language models need hugely enhanced processing power. Mega server farms are getting built in locations with abundant technology and power resources. These powerful computing resources enable real-time analysis of vast datasets, leading to more accurate insights and informed decision-making. Ultra-fast, low-latency 5G networks enable seamless video conferencing, augmented reality (AR) applications, and other bandwidth-intensive services.

The advanced language translation capabilities of Generative Ai LLMs are exponentially improving. The development facilitates seamless communication across linguistic barriers, representing a significant leap in natural language processing. With LLMs, companies engage with customers in their preferred language, ensuring a more personalized and effective interaction. The capability empowers agents with the information they need to provide timely and relevant support.

All these enhancements and acquisitions of new technology capabilities will be game-changing, hugely enhance customer interaction quality, and enable innovative service offerings previously constrained by network limitations, language, and other constraints.

A consolidation of the Cx BPO industry is likely. The trend towards decentralization of the Cx BPO services could reverse itself. China and India will benefit most from this consolidation. Large mega Cx BPO centers will emerge to deliver cutting-edge customer experiences globally as we advance.Similar Posts:

The post appeared first on .

A nanometer (nm) is one billionth of a meter. That is about 1/80,000 of the width of human hair. Nanotechnology deals with nanometer-scale materials and structures. Nanotechnology applications can be seen in electronics, medicine, energy, materials, and environmental science. Nanoscale materials are being developed to improve drug delivery, diagnostics, imaging, and regenerative medicine.

Nanotechnology in healthcare

Now nanoparticles can be engineered to carry drugs to specific cells or tissues. It enhances drug stability, improves solubility, and controls drug release. These will make therapy more effective and targeted. Bypassing biological barriers and delivering drugs to previously inaccessible areas will become possible.

Nanofibers, nano-gels, and nano-scaffolds can promote the repair and regeneration of damaged tissues and organs. Nano-particle-based therapies are promising in cancer treatment, antimicrobial therapies, and targeted therapy delivery. Targeted drug delivery helps increase drug concentration at the target and, at the same time reducing side effects of healthy tissues. Nanoparticles will now be combined with antibodies or peptides to selectively bind to markers on diseased cells making drug delivery precise.

There are excellent examples of using nanoparticles as contrast agents in MRI (magnetic resonance imaging). These are helping improve tumor detection and targeting of anti-cancer medication to specific tumors.

There are many other use cases of nanoparticles in , immunotherapy enhancements, and combined therapeutic and diagnostic treatments called theranostics. Innovations include the development of nanosuspensions, nano-emulsions, and nanosponges. Nanoparticles based techniques are a hot area of innovation and research. New and newer use cases and solutions are being developed.

Combination drug therapies

Combining multiple drug molecules into a single nanoparticle will be possible, making combination therapy more effective.

Examples of nano-particles-based medicine:

1.ÌýÌýÌýÌýÌýÌýDoxil is liposomal doxorubicin that is used to treat various cancers. This medication contains liposomes and doxorubicin. Liposomes protect the drug from degradation prolonging its circulation time. It helps the medication accumulate in tumor tissues making it more effective. The medicine treats ovarian cancer, multiple myeloma, and AIDs-related Kaposi’s sarcoma.

2.ÌýÌýÌýÌýÌýÌýAbraxane is albumin-bound paclitaxel. The medication allows for improved solubility, controlled drug release, and enhanced tumor targeting. Abraxanne is approved for treating breast cancer, non-small cell lung cancer, and pancreatic cancer.

3.ÌýÌýÌýÌýÌýÌýOnivyde is a liposomal formulation of the chemotherapy drug irinotecan. It is indicated for the treatment of metastatic pancreatic cancer. Ipsen manufactures the medication.

4.ÌýÌýÌýÌýÌýÌýFeraheme is an iron oxide nanoparticle-based formulation used as an intravenous iron replacement therapy for treating iron deficiency anemia in adult patients. AMAG Pharmaceuticals manufacture the formulation.

Some other major companies engaged in nanoparticle-based medication manufacture include Merck & Co and Novartis.

Challenges and failure

As is most emerging technologies, nanomedicine-based formulations are seeing clinical failures. Some of the documented causes for failure are:

1.ÌýÌýÌýÌýÌýÌýToxicity in Phase 1 clinical trials ()

2.ÌýÌýÌýÌýÌýÌýThe drug carrier of nanomedicine affects its physicochemical properties leading to failure. (Ìý)

3.ÌýÌýÌýÌýÌýÌýWrong selection of patients for clinical trials ()

4.ÌýÌýÌýÌýÌýÌýProduction processes and reproducibility quality is another critical cause that leads to the failure of nanomedicines. ()

Some of the reported failures of nanotechnology-based formulations are:

Caldolor was a nanomedicine developed as an intravenous formulation of ibuprofen. It was produced to provide pain relief and reduce fever. Safety profile issues led to the failure of the medicine to gain FDA approval in 2006.

BIND-14 was a nanoparticle-based drug delivery system developed to target and deliver chemotherapy drugs directly to cancer cells. The drug was designed to treat solid tumors, including prostate, lung, and pancreatic cancers. The Phase II clinical trials were unsuccessful and further development was discontinued in 2016.

BrachySil was another nanomedicine developed to deliver radioactive particles directly to pancreatic cancer tumors. The medicine, if successful, would have provided localized radiation therapy while minimizing damage to healthy tissues. The medication failed in Phase III clinical trials leading to the termination of the trial in 2014.

Alnisleukin is a recombinant interleukin-2 (IL-2) therapy used in kidney . It is a biologic drug with nanoscale components. Even though the drug has received FDA approval, its usage has declined due to limited response rates, significant toxicity, and the availability of more effective treatments.

Failures are not restricted to nanomedicines. These are common features of drug development. Failures provide opportunities for learning and improvement.

Global nanomedicine market size

Grand View Research valued the global nanomedicine market, in 2020, at USD 215 billion. They estimate that this could grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.7 percent and is expected to reach USD 405.9 billion by 2028. The growth of this market is attributed to the following factors:

The incidence of chronic diseases like cancer, cardiovascular disorders, neurological conditions, and infectious diseases is driving demand for innovative and targeted therapies. Nanomedicine offers effective treatments with reduced side effects. The market adoption of these drugs is also high.

Continuous advancements in nanotechnology include developing improved materials, fabrication techniques, and methods. These are resulting in the development of new nanomedicine products and therapies.

Governments worldwide are investing in nanomedicine research and development. Funding programs, grants, and collaborations are on offer. These are accelerating nanomedicine innovations in clinical applications.

Regulatory agencies like US FDA and European Medicines Agency (EMA) have recognized the potential of nanomedicine. They are actively engaged in developing guidelines for evaluating and approving nanomedicine products. A supporting regulatory environment facilitates the commercialization of nanomedicine drugs, promoting market growth.

Collaborations between academic institutions, pharmaceutical companies, and nanotechnology firms foster innovation and support nanomedicine formulation development efforts. Nanomedicine enables personalized medicine approaches by delivering therapies with high specificity to target cells or tissues. The growing focus on precision medicine and targeted therapies further fuels the demand for nanomedicine drugs.

Emerging nanomedicines under trial

Several trials and developments are reported in a scenario with high nanomedicine demand.

NanoVelcro CTC Assay uses nanoscale wires coated with antibodies to capture and analyze circulating tumor cellsÌý(CTCs). It can improve cancer diagnosis, monitor treatment response, and facilitate personalized medicine.

Nanoscale particles called nanoFlares are designed to detect and monitor specific genetic targets within cells. The technique can help measure gene expression levels and provide insights into disease progression and therapy response.

Cancer-targeting nano vaccines can potentially trigger a robust immune response against cancer cells. That can lead to tumor regression and long-term immune memory. Such vaccines are under development.

Nanoparticles can be delivery vehicles for gene therapies transporting therapeutic genes into target cells. The particles protect the genes from degradation and enhance their uptake by cells. The treatments can treat genetic disorders, cancer, and other diseases.

RNA-based therapies, such as RNA interference and messenger RNA therapies, are under development to treat various diseases. Nanoparticles can encapsulate and protect RNA molecules. It will facilitate their delivery to target cells and tissues.

Some other nanoparticle-based innovations with potential for deployment in the future include nanoscale drug delivery systems, nanobots for targeted therapy, and nanosensors for disease monitoring.

Similar Posts:

The post appeared first on .

Sustainability is a business strategy. It seeks to adopt sustainability as a key component in the company’s operations. The strategy envisions meeting the needs of the present generation without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.

What is sustainability?

It is a balance between social, economic, and environmental factors. Corporate operations and development are pursued not to deplete natural resources or harm the planet’s ecosystems. aims to create a better world for everyone now and in the future. Corporations adopting sustainability as a core principle of business strategy incorporate in each decision the impact it has on future generations. In sustainability, we consider the long-term implications of our actions and decisions on the planet, society, economy, and business.

Sustainable business strategy

A business incorporating sustainability as a core business strategy makes sustainable operations necessary in all business operations. Sustainability is used to create long-term value for all stakeholders. Stakeholders include customers, employees, shareholders, and the environment.

are integrated into all aspects of the business, from sourcing, manufacturing, distribution, marketing, and customer service. It will include reducing energy and resource consumption, minimizing waste, adopting renewable energy sources, using environmentally friendly materials, and promoting social and economic equity.

The business advantage of sustainability strategy

Sustainable improve brand reputation, reduce costs, enhance innovation, and attract and retain customers and employees who value sustainability. The strategy is particularly valuable for companies in Europe, Australia, North America, and emerging markets. In these markets, there is a heightened awareness of the consequences of unsustainable policies impacting humanity. A strategy is a smart business move for long-term success. Let me share some supporting data points that illustrate the need for adopting a sustainable business strategy.

Such corporations are better able to attract capital at competitive rates when compared to traditional business strategy companies.

According to theÌý, global sustainable investment assets grew to $35.3 trillion in 2020, a 15 percent increase from 2018.A PWC survey found that 80 percent of institutional investors considerÌýfactors when making decisions.Sustainability-linked loans and bonds are becoming increasingly popular. Bloomberg reports that issuance of these instruments reached $66.5 billion in 2020, up from $5.5 billion in 2016.AnÌý study found that companies with strong ESG performance had higher profitability and lower risk than those with weak ESG performance.A Harvard Business School study found that companies that adopted sustainability practices outperformed their peers in the long run in terms of financial and stock market performance.Sustainable strategy in the tech sector

Tech companies are often seen sitting at the cutting edge of innovation. These companies have been a forerunner in adopting sustainability as a core business strategy:

Google has invested in large-scale wind and solar projects. It has implemented energy-efficient measures in its buildings and data centers. It has also created tools and initiatives to help people reduce their environmental impact. Google Maps shows bike and transit directions, and Google Nest smart home products help consumers reduce energy usage. The company has set a goal to achieve carbon neutrality in its global operations. It will power all its data centers with renewable energy.

Salesforce has launched the Salesforce Sustainability Cloud platform, enabling companies to track and report on their sustainability performance and goals. Internally, the company has implemented sustainable practices, such as using 100 percent renewable energy, reducing waste, and promoting sustainable transportation options for employees. The company has committed to reaching net-zero greenhouse gas emissions across its entire value chain by 2050.

Microsoft, too has made similar commitments. It has also created the AI for Earth program, which uses artificial intelligence to address climate change, biodiversity loss, and water scarcity.

Implementing a sustainable strategy

A company desirous of implementing a sustainable strategy begins with a sustainability audit. The audit assesses the company’s current environmental and social impact. It identifies areas of improvement and provides a baseline for measuring progress.

The audit helps the company set sustainability goals that align with its values and missions. Like all other business goals, goals should be specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound. The sustainability plan is now prepared. It outlines the strategies and tactics the company will use to achieve its sustainability goals. A sustainability plan includes details of initiatives the company will use to reduce the environmental impact, promote social responsibility, and ensure long-term economic viability. Our multi-national team of experts can help you prepare such a plan.

TheÌýÌýprocess requires collaboration and interaction with stakeholders. It will mean collaborating with employees, customers, suppliers, investors, and the community. The exchange is crucial in gaining their support and input on its sustainability initiatives. Our team will create the necessary frameworks and survey instruments that the company’s internal team can use to gather information and perceptions of each stakeholder segment. The interaction also helps in securing stakeholder support for the sustainability plan.

With the plan reading, the company can begin implementing the sustainable practices listed in the plan. These practices are to be aligned with the company’s sustainability plans and goals. The practices may include, for instance, programs for reducing waste, conserving energy, using renewable resources, and promoting social responsibility.

The sustainability requires monitoring and reporting the progress of each of the listed programs. Each program will have indicators against which progress is measured and monitored. Performance monitoring will help the company measure progress and make necessary strategic changes if a program does not achieve its stated . The reporting brings with it transparency. The metrics help demonstrate the environmental and social impact of the programs listed in the sustainability plan.

It is important to note that sustainable business practices are not a one-time project but an ongoing process. The company should continuously review and improve its sustainability plan and practices to align with its goals and mission.Similar Posts:

The post appeared first on .