Slide 1
Nanotechnology
Sunscreen
Some sunscreens are composed of two nanoparticles which are titanium
dioxide and zinc oxide. They are hard to put on because they clump together
but they feel lighter on the skin. Unlike traditional sunscreens they absorb and
scatter visible light or UV light effectively and can prevent skin diseases like
basal cell carcinomas and melanomas.
Slide 2
Therapeutic Goods Administration (2014) ran some tests to identify the danger of nanoparticles
specifically zinc oxide. They exposed macrophages (human immune cells) to the zinc dioxide
where the former breaks down the latter immediately. While titanium dioxide still needs further
scientific study and is not advisable to use when in sprays or powders that can lead to eye and
skin irritation. But these nanoparticles are safe as an additional substance in making sunscreens.
In addition, carbon nanotubes can cause brain damage in dogs and fish. Factories like power
plants, diesel machines, etc. are carrying different nanoparticles that can cause lung
inflammation and heart disease.
Francine Anne P. Chua