Nanocosmetics 101

Many young women will sympathize with the adage "Beauty is pain," but new studies show that perhaps it should be modified to "Beauty is risk." The applications of nanoscience in gold creams have previously been discussed, and it is time for a crash course for all prospective cosmetics buyers in Nanocosmetics 101.

Nanotechnology has edged its way into the cosmetics scene quickly and expansively. Currently, there are two ways with which nanotechnology is being utilized in the sphere of cosmetics: as UV filters and for delivery purposes.

Zinc oxide and titanium oxide have been used as UV filters in sunscreens. This is not news; the white stuff you see on lifeguards' noses at the beach is just zinc oxide in the form as we've known it: with a white, chalky appearance. Nanotechnology has created microscopic particles of these oxides that retain their UV-blocking characteristic with added benefits. Sunscreen is now transparent, less smelly and greasy, and more easily absorbed by the skin. The Body Shop, Nivea, and L'Oreal have all hopped onto the bandwagon and have released sunscreens and moisturizers using these nanoparticles.

In the past, liposomes and niosomes have been used as delivery vehicles in cosmetics. Nanotechnology, of course, has changed that. Solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) are nanometer-sized particles in a solid lipid matrix. They protect the encapsulated ingredients from degradation Their occlusive properties also make them ideal for day creams. Liquid nanoparticles have also been developed, which have proven even more useful in some cases. Nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs) have a higher loading capacity and long-term stability compraed to SLNs as well as boasting better accommodation for active ingredients. For the aesthete's purpose, however, NLCs have been known to give a more whitish appearance as opposed to yellow. For both nanoparticles, increased skin penetration is a benefit that isn't easily overlooked.

As this blog seems to be concerned with adages, let it be said that "Every rose has its thorn." Certain health risks have been speculated with the use of nanoparticles. Fullerenes, which are nanoparticles used in anti-aging products, may be potentially toxic if able to penetrate the skin. Nanoparticles in sunscreens, too, may be able to breach sunburned skin. When shrunk down to a nanometer-scale, certain materials have been known to display new and unusual properties. For this reason, nanotechnolgy in cosmetics has been brought to the attention of health organizations everywhere and are being studied for possible adverse effects. A new law passed by the EU will make it mandatory for products to be labelled as 'nano' if they contain nanomaterials. This should be an indication as to how far-reaching nanotechnology has become in the world of cosmetics.

Of course, these risks are still in the process of being corroborated by researchers and the benefits seem to stack up quite high against the potential dangers. The consumer should always be conscious of the products he or she is buying and when shopping for products labelled 'nano,' must take everything into consideration. Nanotechnology has a bright future in the world of cosmetics and can have far-reaching applications in all fields.













References: "Nanotechnology in Cosmetics". Observatory Nano, Apr. 2009. Web. Retrieved from: http://www.observatorynano.eu/project/filesystem/files/Cosmetics%20report-April%2009.pdf




andrewkang