Nanotechnology and Skincare

Whenever scientists make a new discovery, the excitement about possible applications can sometimes overshadow consideration of the consequences. Look at Genetically Modified Organisms and other gene manipulations, for example. Now, they have discovered they can manipulate matter on the tiny “nano” scale (thousands of times tinier than a human hair) and create products, which they are rapidly introducing into consumer markets, sometimes ahead of regulatory frameworks. But the risks can be extremely high. I would like to thank one of our affiliates for alerting me of this issue via their blog organicclothing.blogs.com.

For example, they can create nano-gold, which is only a few dozen atoms wide and which behaves differently in some ways to normal gold. Nanomaterials often have unique chemical and physical properties compared to their bulk counterparts, sometimes resulting in increased reactivity or bioavailability.

Nano-particles sometimes become “reactive” instead of being inert. It is this “reactivity” which makes nanotechnology so scary. Safety testing for nano-particles is ongoing but, challenges remain, particularly in long-term effects and environmental persistence. Just as with GMO research, much of the initial safety testing for nanotechnology is conducted or funded by the companies developing the products. While regulatory agencies review these findings, critics argue that the system can lack transparency and independent oversight. This raises concerns that consumers may be exposed before long-term effects are fully understood, making us part of a real-world safety experiment.

They have developed sunscreens, which have nano-particles of zinc oxide, which will not cause that chalky white residue on the skin. While most studies show that nanoparticles in sunscreens do not penetrate healthy skin, further research is needed to understand effects on compromised skin. For example, they don’t know what will happen if you have skin problems like psoriasis, eczema, or cuts or burns.

They don’t know if these particles, which are small enough to pass through the skin ¹ and go into the circulatory system, our organs and even into our brains, will then react with other particles in the body and what effect this will have². We take antioxidants to neutralize free radicals. But these nano-particles could be creating free radicals. 

Already, they are appearing in everything you buy from skincare, anti-fungal sprays, cleaning products, air purifiers, children’s pencils to sheets and clothes, and many other products will have them in it.³ For example, they are creating nanotechnology textiles which may be wrinkle-free, but could have potential consequences for our health. There are over 400 companies worldwide working on nanotechnology products. Some companies such as Bionova, Chanel, Chantecaille, Christian Dior, Kara Vita, Coppertone, Juvena, Lancome, Banana Boat, Philips, L.L. Bean, Remington, Samsung (e.g. in one of their air purifiers) and others claim they already using nanotechnology in some of their products. Some even put “Nano” in the product name.

Governments and scientific agencies have acknowledged that nanomaterials require careful oversight. For example, early reports from the UK government⁴ noted that materials at the nanoscale can behave differently than their larger counterparts. This means safety cannot automatically be assumed just because a substance is safe in its bulk form. Regulatory bodies in Australia and Europe⁵ have also reviewed the use of nanoparticles such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide in sunscreens. While most research to date shows that these particles do not penetrate healthy skin deeply, some studies have raised questions about their potential to generate reactive oxygen species, which are unstable molecules that can damage cells under certain conditions. These findings highlight the importance of continued independent research, especially regarding long-term exposure and effects on compromised skin.

If you’re concerned about the growing use of nanotechnology in everyday products, consider choosing alternatives that align with your values. For example, some people prefer to use skincare products from companies like us at Amrita Aromatherapy, who rely on Essential Oils instead of nanotechnology. We also welcome thoughtful discussion on how best to encourage transparency, responsible innovation, and consumer choice when it comes to emerging technologies like nanotechnology.

Sources:

1 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27052385

2 http://www.news-medical.net/life-sciences/Safety-of-Nanoparticles.aspx

3 http://www.nanotechproject.org/cpi/

4 http://www.hse.gov.uk/research/rrpdf/rr274.pdf

5 http://www.tga.gov.au/literature-review-safety-titanium-dioxide-and-zinc-oxide-nanoparticles-sunscreens

Disclaimer: The statements made on this page have not been evaluated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). They are not intended to diagnose, cure or prevent any disease. If a condition persists, please contact your physician or healthcare provider. The information provided is not a substitute for a face-to-face consultation with a healthcare provider, and should not be construed as medical advice.

Original Published: 2016-04-14 / Last Modified: 2025-6-4