Nanoparticles and Sunscreen
August 28, 2009 by Jo · 1 Comment
Friends of the Earth have released a report detailing why consumers should be cautious when using sunscreens that contain nanoparticles.
There are a large number of sunscreens on the market that use nano size particles of the physical UV filters titanium and zinc. The size of the particles allow the product to be applied more easily and also provides better absorption into the skin leaving the user with no white residue.
“Consumers must be aware that nanomaterials are being put into sunscreens with very little evidence about their safety and efficacy”, said Ian Illuminato of Friends of the Earth.
Claims by manufacturers that using nano sized particles made the sunblocks more effective are dismissed by Friends of the Earth who say a 2007 report done by the Consumer’s Union concluded there was no correlation between using nano particles in an sunblock and effectiveness of the product as a sunblock.
The concern over nanoparticles is due to their ability to penetrate the skin.
“In the body, nanomaterials have much greater access to vulnerable organs and skin tissues”, states the report.
The report also calls for products to clearly disclose on labeling that it contains nanoparticles and pre testing for products before they go on the market. Research into the effect of nanoparticles on human health also needs to be encouraged.