Nanomaterials in sun-care products

Abstract The increased incidence of melanoma and other skin diseases induced by excessive sun exposure has led dermatologists to recommend a daily use of sunscreens to consumers. Interestingly, in the last few years, the formulation technology of these products has begun to employ nanomaterials to improve photoprotection and esthetic pleasantness. So, this chapter, among sunscreens, focuses the attention on the use of nanosunscreens, in particular, toward nano-TiO2 and nano-ZnO, taking into consideration their effectiveness and safety. In the first section of this chapter, an overview about sunscreens opens the discussion presenting their role, distinguishing them as organic and inorganic filters, giving information about their regulatory status. The sun protection factor and the characteristic of light are also defined. In the second section, the definition and use of nanomaterials in cosmetics, especially in sun-care products, their regulatory status, and nanotoxicology are deeply discussed.