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Copyright @ Pol J Cosmetol
Pol J Cosmetol 2018, 21(1): 33-40pl  Modern materials among mineral sunscreen ingredientsArtur Budzowski, Regina Gil Zakład Chemii Kosmetycznej, Wydział Lekarski i Nauk o Zdrowiu, Krakowska Akademia im. A. Frycza Modrzewskiego Summary Ultraviolet radiation is one of the most important environmental factors influencing human life on Earth. Some results of its effect are positive, but some are negative, e.g.: skin burns, premature skin aging, as well as photocarcinogenesis. Therefore, the protection of skin against the UV light is necessary. Sunscreens are cosmetics containing raw materials, which reflect, scatter or absorb the UV radiation. The ingredients are divided into two groups: mineral (physical blockers) and organic (chemical absorbers). The present article describes advantages and disadvantages of the most frequently applied inorganic UV filters permissible in EU, such as titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, which are being applied as nanomatierials as well as classical pigments. Innovative ingredients improving the properties of these filters have been presented, as well as results of the most recent scientific research on new mineral filters. Innovative inorganic composite materials designed as efficient sunscreen ingredients have been characterized. Some of them are already commercially available or invented and published in patents. The attention has been focused on the aspect of mineral sunscreen safety. The research aiming at deeper knowledge about the threats accompanied with the sunscreen application goes unceasingly. Therefore, we should keep in mind that wearing sunscreen, even at high SPF value, cannot replace pro-health habits, including control and limitation of sun exposure time. Key words: sunscreens, titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, composites, safety management |