The Nanodermatology Society (NDS), an organization led by physicians and focusing on applications of nanotechnology and dermatology in scientific and medical fields, has released a paper on the safety of nanotechnology application in sunscreens. Titanium dioxide and zinc oxide have been used in sunscreens.
Nanotechnology has helped create sunscreens with nanoparticles of titanium and zinc that provide effective barriers to UVA and UVB light.
In an effort to address concerns of safety of nanotechnology applications, the society has analyzed the scientific literature relating to the safety of using nano-ultraviolet barriers. The paper has been published in the NDS website. According to Dr. Adam Friedman, vice-president of the socity and senior author of the paper, the data available reveals that nanotechnology deployed in sunscreens is safe.
Nanotechnology has both risks and benefits, says Friedman. New Sunscreens have been analyzed to show that they are coated to reduce reactivity, clump in aggregates, or do not enter the skin. Sunscreens also help prevent skin cancer such as melanoma and photo damage. Friedman says he hopes the statement will encourage further research in the field to reduce risks and enhance its application in consumer products
Karin Blecher, Adnan Nasir and Steven Wang, have co-authored the statement.
Source: http://www.nanodermsociety.org