Nanotech penetration study draws ire
This article was originally published in The Rose Sheet
Executive Summary
A study published in the August journal Nano Letters on the ability of nano-sized particles to permeate skin has drawn criticism from the Nanotechnology Industries Association. The article, "In Vivo Skin Penetration of Quantum Dot Nanoparticles in the Murine Model: The Effect of UVR" measured the effect that UV radiation may have on the ability of nano-sized quantum dots to permeate skin in a mouse model. The researchers found "qualitatively higher" levels of quantum dot penetration in UV-exposed mice, according to the UK trade association. In a Sept. 16 release, NIA maintained the results cannot be interpreted as applying to sunscreens that utilize nano-sized titanium oxide and zinc oxide, which are used as UV filters in sunscreens. NIA contends that the behavior of quantum dots in the skin is not comparable to that of nano-sized sunscreen ingredients, as nanoparticles group together in the skin and form larger particles. In addition, the mouse skin model used in the study is not sufficient for drawing comparisons with sunscreen use in humans," NIA says