In today’s science-based cosmeceutical market, about 5% of products contain nanoparticles. According to a statement from Ken Chosmitek, a research engineer for Microfluidics, “Nanoencapsulation…can reduce the amount of active ingredients needed [to have the same effect].” That means decreased amounts of ingredients used by the manufacturer, and increased efficacy for you (as ingredients penetrate the skin farther).
But are nanoparticles harmful for you? Although there is great speculation of such – from reputable blogs to “safety-first” organic skin care companies – the scientific studies on products thus far have demonstrated a high level of safety for many products containing nanoparticles. One of these studies, conducted by scientists at L’Oreal, found that micronized particles (including of the popular micronized ingredient titanium dioxide) do not penetrate the skin deeply or cause damage. According to the scientists, “…the fear that nanoparticles can penetrate the skin, get access to the lymphatic system and circulate around the organism is ‘simplistic and physiologically improbable.”
Yet one concern that remains viable is nanoparticles’ potential to damage the environment.  Nanoparticles of titanium dioxide and certain other ingredients can be washed away into lakes, rivers, and streams, potentially killing beneficial microbes, according to Physorg.com.
Furthermore, not all ingredients are meant to be micronized. Although L’Oreal scientists found that micronized titanium oxide (dioxide) and retinol are safe, the European Union recently voted to start investigating the use of copper nanoparticles in self-tanners in 2012.  Which means that nanoparticles may be small, but they can do mighty good or harm, depending on their context.
Overall, then, the future of nanoparticles in skin care and cosmetics remains to be seen. My favorite skin care products containing nanoparticles are L’Oreal Advanced Revitalift Night Cream with micronized retinol ($16.79, Amazon.com), the Yves Saint Laurent Touche de Eclat Concealer ($40.00, YvesSaintLaurent.com) with what appear to be micronized reflective particles*, and California Baby SPF 30+ Sunscreen Lotion (2 pack, $33.00, Amazon.com) with micronized titanium dioxide.
Thoughts on nanoencapsulation in your skin care? Let me know below! 🙂