Is nanotechnology the future of your skin care products? Some scientists and dermatologists think so. In fact, patents for products using nanotechnology are most rapidly growing in the cosmetic skin care field, including everything from shampoo to eye shadow. But there is a reason that you haven’t seen a surge of these types of products on your store shelves – the FDA still hasn’t determined its safety.

Despite uncertainty about side effects, scientists are hopeful about the future of nanotechnology and skin care. Because of their miniscule particle size, nanotechnology has unique properties and benefits not achievable by bigger sized particles in current products. A Medical News Today article cited sunscreen as an example. Currently, the larger particles used in sunscreen are what leaves greasiness and white residue on the skin; a sunscreen made with nanoparticles however, would have the same UVA/UVB blocking benefits without the leftovers on the skin. 

With nanotechnology, the smaller sized particles more easily penetrate the skin, making it possible to deliver and absorb important nutrients and ingredients not currently possible with bigger particle size.  

While nanotechnology shows great promise for skin care, make up, and anti-aging products, scientist are also hopeful for nanotechnology in the treatment of cancer. In fact, a recent animal study showed that nano sized shells of gold were very effective in the treatment of melanoma (the most deadly form of skin cancer) – creating the potential for a very effective noninvasive dermatological skin cancer treatment. 

It is important to note, that while these advancements are promising and exciting, the FDA still has not determined the safety of nanotechnology on the skin. We at Dermatology Associates of Atlanta will work keep you abreast of any developments in this field or any other technology advancements.