Nanomaterials in cosmetics
For thousands of years, nanomaterials have been used in cosmetics as colorants. However, in the last 40 years their functionalities have significantly advanced. For example, creams based on nano liposome carriers have entered the market. The use of nano zinc oxide and titanium dioxide in sunscreens has increased; besides protecting skin from UV radiation, they also look transparent when applied on the skin. Nanomaterials can also enhance products texture, stability and self-life, among other benefits. Currently, nanoforms of over 200 substances are listed in the EU cosmetics inventory.
The EU Cosmetics Regulation provides a safety framework and establishes a central notification system for the cosmetics placed on the EU market. Manufacturers, importers or their appointed third parties need to register their cosmetics through the Cosmetic Products Notification Portal (CPNP). The way to authorisation depends on the substance and product type and might involve safety revision by the Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS).
The European Commission publishes a catalogue of the nanomaterials used in cosmetic products on the EU market. The catalogue is based on the information provided by the manufacturers through the CPNP.
You can find out if the cosmetic product you are using contains nanomaterials by looking at the list of ingredients on the package of the product. Nanomaterials in a cosmetic product must be labelled with the word ‘nano’ in brackets after the name of the ingredient.
Infographic
The infographic was produced by ECHA for the EUON with support from the European Union through the SMP-COSME programme.
This document was produced with the financial assistance of the European Union. The views expressed herein can in no way be taken to reflect the official opinion of the European Union. Neither ECHA nor the European Commission are responsible for any use that may be made of the information contained therein.
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