Dermatologist Promotes Sunscreen and Antiaging Benefits of Nanotechnology
Posted: March 19, 2010
Nanotechnology can have positive affects on aesthetics, efficacy and delivery when formulated into skin care and sun care products, according to Adnan Nasir, MD, PhD, FAAD, a dermatologist and clinical assistant professor in the department of dermatology at the University of North Carolina.
Nasir spoke at the 68th Annual Meeting of the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) in Miami, and his presentation was covered by an AAD online article.
Although Nasir expects a growth in nanotechnology over the next few years, he finds this cannot take place until a standard has been set to evaluate the safety and efficacy of nanosized particles in topical products.
He noted that nanotechnology has been utilized to improve the undesirable aesthetic properties of larger particles of skin care products. Avobenzone and titanium dioxide, according to Nasir, can produce unpleasant aesthetic affects in sunscreens such as a greasy or white appearance, respectively. However, when the nanosized versions of these ingredients can appear less greasy and white while still blocking UVA and UVB radiation.
Nasir added that nanoparticles can increase a sunscreen's protection. “While widespread use of this technology is currently under evaluation, I think one of the main benefits of nanoparticles used in sunscreens will be that the particles can fit into all the nooks and crannies of the skin, packing more protection and more even coverage on the skin’s surface than microsized particles,” said Nasir.