Report Discusses Science Behind the Benefits of Nanotech
WASHINGTON, Oct. 10 /PRNewswire/ -- The Cosmetic, Toiletry, and
Fragrance Association (CTFA) released today a scientific white paper on the
application of nanotechnology in personal care products, including
cosmetics and certain over-the-counter (OTC) drug products, specifically
sunscreens.
The report, available at http://www.ctfa.org, discusses the advantages
of the use of nanomaterials, the regulatory evaluation of personal care
products using nanotechnology, particular properties of nanoparticles, the
potential for dermal absorption of nanoparticles used in topical lotions or
creams, and the general scientific consensus and toxicology conclusions
about the use of nanotech in personal care products. The report
specifically addresses the issue of titanium dioxide and zinc oxide used in
nanoparticle form in sunscreens.
"This report directly addresses the science behind the use of
nanoparticles in personal care products," said John Bailey, Ph.D.,
executive vice president of science at CTFA. "The science strongly
indicates that nanoparticles applied topically to the skin in lotions or
creams are safe and provide clear benefits to consumers."
Sunscreens, some of which utilize sun-protecting nanoparticles that
help prevent skin cancer, are required to go through an extensive FDA
review and approval process to demonstrate they are safe and effective. The
nanoparticles in sunscreens, titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, are
established, efficacious sunscreen filters that have been on the market for
decades. In 1996, FDA concluded that smaller, micronized particles of
titanium dioxide are not new substances and that there is no evidence
demonstrating that these micronized particles are unsafe. Nano-sized
titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, unlike the larger particle size
ingredients, form a transparent rather than a thick, white coating, which
leads to greater consumer acceptance and use of the products, and therefore
greater protection from skin cancer and other damaging effects of the sun.
The nano-size of the particles also enables them to better reflect and/or
scatter certain harmful UV rays.
"The nanoparticles used in sunscreens provide important and unique sun-
protection benefits, helping reduce the risk of skin cancer," Bailey said.
"These sunscreen ingredients have been used safely for many years and have
been evaluated and approved by the FDA and independent scientists. They are
transparent and aesthetically pleasing and therefore encourage greater
consumer use."
In addition to the report released today, CTFA also filed comprehensive
comments with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on the science and
regulation of nanoparticles in personal care products. CTFA comments, which
can be found at http://www.ctfa.org, specifically address issues raised in
a petition filed with FDA earlier this year on nanotechnology applications
in personal care products, specifically sunscreen products.
Based in Washington, D.C., CTFA is the trade association representing
the cosmetic, toiletry, and fragrance industry in the United States and
globally. Founded in 1894, CTFA has a membership of approximately 600
companies including manufacturers, distributors, and suppliers of the vast
majority of finished personal care products marketed in the United States.
SOURCE Cosmetic, Toiletry, and Fragrance Association
 back to top
Related links:
http://www.ctfa.org/
CONTACT:
Kathleen Dezio, +1-202-454-0302, or Lisa
Powers, +1-202-466-0489, both of Cosmetic, Toiletry, and
Fragrance Association
|
