Nanoparticle use in Cosmetics and Sunscreens

As we know the term nanoparticle comes from the word "nanometer," which means a billionth of a meter. These particles have exotic physical effects that allow them to penetrate very deeply into the skin and organs because of their tiny size.

The groups -- Friends of the Earth and International Center for Technology Assessment -- formally petitioned the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, to limit the use of nanoparticles in cosmetics and sunscreens. Activists of these groups claimed that products such as sunscreens and cosmetics contain potentially hazardous nanoparticles but lack adequate warning labels of their possible health effects. More than 116 sunscreens, cosmetics and personal care use nanomaterials. Revlon, L'Oreal and Estee Lauder are some of the cosmetics firms that use these nanomaterials in some of their products.

Some nanoparticles can penetrate cells and tissues, move through the body and brain and cause biochemical damage. This was shown in some animal studies but whether cosmetics and sunscreens containing nanomaterials pose health risks is still an issue which requires more investigation by the FDA. Lisa Archer, senior health and environment campaigner with Friends of the Earth U.S asked that until these materials are proven safe these corporations should stop marketing nano-laced products.

The filing by the groups mentioned above was the first-ever legal challenge on the potential human health and environmental risks of nanotechnology and nanomaterials.
Susan Cruzan a spokeswoman for FDA stated that the agency has no evidence that nanoparticles in products pose hazards. Nonetheless, the agency plans to hold a public meeting "to gather information about current development and uses" of nanoparticles.

http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?file=/c/a/2006/05/17/MNGFHIT1161.DTL