Sunscreen Confusion - Is Nanoparticle Sunscreen Safe?
- Author Liz Thompson
- Published August 18, 2010
- Word count 503
Zinc oxide is the most effective approved mineral based ingredient to protect the skin from both UVA and UVB damage. This mineral forms a physical barrier on the skin, reflecting UVB and UVA rays from penetrating down to the deeper layers of skin. It is less irritating and safer than chemical sunscreens and has a wider range of protection from UV rays. According to the Environmental Working Group: "We found that consumers using sunscreens without zinc and titanium would be exposed to an average of 20% more UVA radiation — with increased risks for UVA-induced skin damage, premature aging, wrinkling, and UV-induced immune system damage — than consumers using zinc- and titanium-based products."
The common complaint by users of sunscreen products containing zinc has been regarding the white coating it leaves on the skin. This is where nanoparticles come in - particles that are smaller than 100 nanometers (or "nm" - a nanometer is roughly half the size of a strand of DNA). Zinc is shrunk into tiny particles measuring under 100nm, providing better protection and eliminating the white cast.
Nanoparticles have come under close scrutiny by some watchdog groups concerned over the possible health effects of nanoparticles entering the deep tissues, blood or lungs. Research on the subject to date has had varied outcomes. The level of nano-scale zinc found in the body has ranged from zero to little, or greater amounts, dependant on how it is introduced to the system and its size. In their most recent sunscreen guide, the
Environmental Working Group (EWG) writes:
In 15 peer-reviewed studies, nanosize zinc and titanium were shown not to penetrate through unbroken skin at concentrations exceeding 1.5%. A recent review for the EU decision-making body found that, "There is currently little evidence from skin penetration studies that dermal applications of metal oxide nanoparticles used in sunscreens lead to systemic exposure" (Börm 2006).
The majority of sunscreens available for purchase in the US include nanoscale zinc, typically 30 to 200 nm in size. And because labeling laws are unclear where nanoparticles are concerned, it can be difficult to know if you are purchasing a product that contains nanoparticle ingredients or not. The FDA has not yet set standards for nanoparticle claims or defined the minimum size of a nanoparticle. This has caused some individuals and groups to recommend consumers avoid zinc and titanium-based sunscreens altogether.
But this recommendation is not necessarily the safest option. A study by The EWG shows that those using chemical sunscreens are exposed to both greater UV radiation and more hazardous ingredients. Micronized zinc is shown to provide safer protection than either chemical sunscreens or unprotected sun exposure.
But for maximum safety, zinc oxide and titanium dioxide must be coated in order to render them inert. Make sure you purchase your organic sunscreen or all natural sunscreen from a company that uses coated zinc and titanium. Many manufacturers use uncoated zinc. Uncoated zinc has approx 3-5% photoreactivity and may produce free radicals, but coated zinc is below 1% photoreactivity and the chance of free radical production is greatly reduced.
Liz Thompson is founder and editor of Organic Beauty Source, a blog where she shares information on safe, natural beauty and personal care products, such as natural cosmetics and organic skin care.
Article source: https://articlebiz.comRate article
Article comments
There are no posted comments.
Related articles
- Buying a Home When the Interest Rates Drop
- From Sheep to Chic: The Style Power of New Zealand Wool Carpet
- The Healing Blueprint: How to Activate Your Body’s Innate Power to Recover Naturally.
- Turmeric Uncovered: Nature’s Golden Remedy for Modern Wellness
- Turmeric’s Timeless Secret: A Golden Path to Better Health.
- Healing in Harmony: Unlocking the Secrets to Your Body’s Self-Renewal.
- The Bohemian Skirt: A Timeless Wardrobe Essential
- Ganesh Chaturthi: A Modern Take on Tradition Through Carved Wall Panels and Spiritual Wellness
- Revitalize from Within: Simple Strategies to Boost Your Body’s Natural Healing.
- Golden Power: Unlocking the Healing Benefits of Turmeric.
- From Chandeliers to LEDs: Fehmi Lights’ Expert Answers to Brampton’s Most Asked Lighting Questions
- West Texas Desert Retreat: Eclectic Outdoor Living Spaces & Vintage Tables
- Awaken Your Inner Power: How to Elevate Your Body’s Natural Healing Abilities.
- Joint Pain Demystified: Everything You Need to Know About Causes, Remedies, and Long-Term Care.
- Mountain Cabins Bring Character
- Living Without Limits: A Complete Guide to Joint Pain Causes, Treatments, and Prevention.
- Bladder Health and Urinary Tract Function: Comprehensive Strategies for Lifelong Wellness.
- Diabetes and Limited Joint Mobility: Understanding the Connection
- Joint Pain Unlocked: Causes, Relief, and Prevention for Lifelong Mobility.
- Deposit & Withdraw With Paysafecard at Non GamStop Casinos
- Which Book of Ra is the best?
- How Baseball Builds Lifelong Discipline and Focus
- Your Local Lighting Experts: Fehmi Lights Serving the Greater Toronto Area
- Moving Freely Again: Understanding and Managing Joint Pain Naturally.
- Bladder Health Made Simple: Natural Ways to Support Urinary Tract Function.
- Dealing with Metatarsalgia in the Foot
- Benefits of Purchasing a New Construction Home In Spring Hill or Columbia, Tennessee
- Creating a Calm Home Workspace with Minimal Decor
- Bladder Health and Urinary Tract Function: A Complete Guide to Care and Prevention.
- Smart Weight Management: Proven Strategies for Sustainable Health and Lasting Results.