Nanotechnology for the development of new cosmetic formulations

ABSTRACT

Introduction

Nanotechnology is an increasingly widespread area of research for its various applications and advantages. Accordingly, nanotechnology has been the focus of investment in different areas of science, namely as a technological strategy for the development of cosmetics formulations. Nanosystems allow for a profit skin penetration and an effective release profile of ingredients, which contributes to superior technological and cosmetic effects. The applications of nanocosmetics are numerous, from anti-aging care, make-up, nails, deodorants, oral care, sunscreens, and hair care. However, as an area of emerging knowledge, it has now begun to encourage investigations into its toxicology profile, particularly regarding health damage and environmental pollution. Also, the regulatory area saw its adaptation concerning the use of formulations containing nanotechnology.

Areas covered

A description of the nanosystems so far applied in the development of cosmetics is presented. Moreover, an outline concerning lipid-based-nanosystems, polymeric-based nanoparticles, metal-based nanoparticles, silica nanoparticles, and additional nanosystems (dendrimers, nanocrystals, fullerenes, nanodiamonds, and cyclodextrins) towards the obtainment of effective cosmetic outcomes is addressed. The concerning toxicological as well as the regulatory aspects are also discussed.

Expert opinion

This innovative and timely review emphasizes that nanosystems constitute a highly promising technology strategy towards the obtainment of superior and ground-breaking cosmetic formulations.

KEYWORDS:

• Cosmetic
• nanocosmetic
• nanoparticle
• nanotechnology
• regulatory
• toxicology

Article highlights

• Nanotechnology is an increasingly employed field for cosmetic formulations design.

• Nanoparticles unique merits make them a distinguished choice in the formulation of efficient cosmetic products.

• Nanotechnology-based cosmetics are an expanding area with several available marketed formulations.

• Understanding the nanoparticles toxicological aspects is essential for successfully cosmetics development.

• It is important to realize the challenges related to nanocosmetic products regulatory aspects in parallel to the field breakthrough.

This box summarizes key points contained in the article.

Acknowledgments

The authors thank REQUIMTE/LAQV for the support on this revision work.

Declaration of interest

The authors have no relevant affiliations or financial involvement with any organization or entity with a financial interest in or financial conflict with the subject matter or materials discussed in the manuscript. This includes employment, consultancies, honoraria, stock ownership or options, expert testimony, grants or patents received or pending, or royalties.

Reviewer disclosures

A peer reviewer for this manuscript discloses being an advisor to Unilever and Shiseido. The other peer reviewers on this manuscript have no relevant financial or other relationships to disclose.

Additional information

Funding

This paper was not funded.