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Exploration of Various Classes of Nanoparticles used in Cosmetic Applications
Authors: Gupta Swaroopa Rani N
Number of views: 332
For the substance to provide benefits to the skin is necessary that the particles are small enough to penetrate the skin. Thus, it can maximize its capacity for regeneration, nutrition and strengthening the defenses of the skin, which also will look firmer and radiant. Collagen boosting techniques have arisen as a key market trend within the anti-aging market, with consumers striving to achieve the best results possible from skin care treatments, instead of using more drastic plastic surgery methods to hide signs of aging. The applications of nanotechnology and nanoamaterials can be found in many cosmetic products including moisturisers, hair care products, make up and sunscreen. The application of nanomaterials in cosmetic products has been the subject of continuous discussion in the media, scientific circles and among policy makers for the past few years. Toxicity issues have been raised due to conflicting research papers about the safety of nanomaterials and lack of agreement between researchers on whether the nanomaterials are safe for dermal use. There are a number of classes of nanoparticles used, or proposed for use, in cosmetic applications. In cosmetics there are currently two main uses for nanotechnology. The first of these is the use of nanoparticles as UV filters. Titanium dioxide (TiO2) and zinc oxide (ZnO) are the main compounds used in these applications. The second use is nanotechnology for delivery. Liposomes and niosomes are used in the cosmetic industry as delivery vehicles. Newer structures such as solid lipid nanoparticles (SLN) and nanostructured lipid carriers (NLC) have been found to be better performers than liposomes. In particular, NLCs have been identified as a potential next generation cosmetic delivery agent that can provide enhanced skin hydration, bioavailability, stability of the agent and controlled occlusion. Encapsulation techniques have been proposed for carrying cosmetic actives. Nanocrystals and nanoemulsions are also being investigated for cosmetic applications. Present paper deals with exploration of various cosmetic carriers like Transferosomes, Niosomes, Nanoemulsions, Solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs), Nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs), Dendrimers and hyperbranched polymers, Nanocrystals, Encapsulation technologies, Cubosomes, Nanoparticles of ZnO or TiO2 and Nanomechanical properties of hair. This research, along with better regulation and reporting, will enable consumers to choose products with confidence. This in turn will allow companies to benefit from these novel technologies in the long term while retaining customer confidence.