Zinc oxide nanoparticles safe in most sunscreens

The European Union’s (EU) scientific committee on consumer safety has concluded that while the use of zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles in cream and lotion sunscreens is safe up to 25% concentrations, it cannot say the same about sprayable products including these nanoparticles. It has said in a report, because of “the lung inflammation induced by ZnO particles after inhalation exposure, the use of ZnO in cosmetic products which may result in inhalation is of concern”.

Meanwhile, the committee has declared as safe hair dye ingredient HC Red n°3 at a maximum on-head concentration of 0.45% and HC Blue 16 at 3%. However, they could sensitise scalps, it warned.