Nanoparticles (Nanomaterials)Updated a month ago

(Additional Names: nanomaterials)

Particles of cosmetic colorants, preservatives, and UV-filters (zinc oxide and titanium dioxide) of a very small size, ranging from 1 to 100 nm. The main concerns about them in cosmetic products are the possible translocation to viable skin cells and, as a result, its potential to damage DNA, which may lead to cancer. Recently, German researchers found that particles with a diameter of more than 20 nm can be considered safe, as they do not reach viable cells in the epidermis of healthy skin. The European Union requires nanomaterials to be labelled in the list of ingredients with the word 'nano' in brackets. 

Sources:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3472063/
http://ec.europa.eu/growth/sectors/cosmetics/products/nanomaterials_en