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Friends of the Earth, a global environment and
consumer protection group based in Washington, D.C. published a report
last month on the use of the highly controversial nanotechnology by
manufacturers in the production of sunscreens and other skincare products.
In the report, entitled Manufactured Nanomaterials and Sunscreens:
Top Reasons for Precaution, the group sites several reasons why concerns
should be raised in the manufacturing of skincare products that use
this technology.
Nanotechnology is the science used to reduce the particle
size of cosmetic ingredients such as titanium dioxide and zinc oxide.
By reducing the size significantly with this process, the creams
rub on clear, instead of white. The cream is absorbed into the skin
and the thin film sunscreens typically leave are virtually invisible.
The main issue discussed in the report was the risk of ingredient
property changes that could result in dangerous toxicity levels
that have not been extensively researched or studied.
Increased access to vulnerable organs and tissues,
nanomaterials passing through the skin, the absence of mandatory
safety testing and other harmful side-effects to this technology
were some of the reason a call to action was publicized in this
report by Friends of the Earth. The group advocates more support
and research to protect the consumer’s right to be informed
on making cosmetic purchases.
For more information about Friends of the Earth or
the report discussed in this article visit www.foe.org.
Source: www.foe.org
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