Cosmetics Design Special Focus: Nanotechnology

The European Commission has highlighted nanotechnology as a Key Enabling Technology (KET) highlighting the benefits and promises the technology can provide for the future.

As an ‘enabling technology’, the EC states that there are significant opportunities for nanotechnologies in the future, but the problems arise when discussing different types or forms of nanotechnology.

This relates to general accusations aimed at nanotechnology as a new sphere of science which has not been subject to enough safety testing to make it safe for widespread human use; however in some cases, such as sunscreen, it has been safely used for years.

As there is no single nanotechnology industry it means there is always a continuum of quality research that has to be carried out which requires wide scale cooperation between various industrial sectors.

A question of regulation​

Earlier this year, this publication was invited to the personal trade association Cosmetics Europe’s headquarters in Brussels, and discussed the state of play concerning nanotechnology​ in the industry.

President Fabio Franchina pointed out that despite the growth in application, there is still a lot of uncertainty about the potential risks of nanotechnology and that a major problem remains in finding a definition of what nano is.

Also discussing the topic, director general Bertil Heerink remained upbeat that the progression in science will aid future definitions and safety regulation of nanotechnology.

At this year’s in-cosmetics show in Barcelona, where solar beauty was the key theme, Dr Ian Tooley from ingredient supplier Croda told us that consistent regulation of nanotechnology is important​ in sun care.

Regulation is one of the key things to consider in sunscreen formulation, and particularly regulations around nanotechnology. Croda are working with Cosmetics Europe to help deal with this information and ensure it is consistent.

Difference of opinion​

Other top news saw a new study which stated that experts and consumers have a different understanding of whether the French consumer is sensitive to the presence of nanoparticles​ in sun creams.

The study was conducted by Planetinnov.com and Attraction between December 2011 and June 2012 on the perception of sun-protective products and nanoparticles.

On the other side of the pond, a group of US senators also asked the FDA to reverse its decision to delay sunscreen rules​ and put new standards in place.

The group, led by Jack Reed, a Democratic representative from Rhode Island, sent a letter to FDA in a bid to ensure sunscreen labels are clear, accurate and provide consumers with the information they need to protect themselves.