Nanonutrition- and nanoparticle-based ultraviolet rays protection of skin

Unprotected exposure to solar ultraviolet (UV) radiation leads to profound public health implications. Short-term physical distresses such as episodic sunburns or blistering, shockingly, could snowball into long-term hazards, including skin cancer. In an effort to suppress these damaging effects of UV radiation, photo-protective measures have been put in place, with sunscreens being an integral part of the strategy. Typically, topical sunscreen formulations comprise organic and inorganic ingredients, which act as chemical and physical UV filters, respectively. An ideal sunscreen includes non-toxic active components with pronounced absorption properties in the broadband UV spectrum and enhanced photostability. Some of these components, however, are photo-labile and display a poor aesthetic elegance. The recent introduction of nanotechnology, which involves the design, production and application of materials in nano-dimensions, seems to circumvent many of the shortcomings associated with the traditional micro-sized topical agents as a preventive modality of the sun-damaging activities. Present-day studies also underpin the use of nanomaterials in sunscreen formulations to have significantly improved cosmesis, ease of application while retaining their UV-protective attributes. There are, however, rising concerns over the size-related properties of nanomaterials, which could elicit unintended negative consequences, such as the formation of free radicals and aggravated cellular toxicity. In this chapter, we review the emerging use of nanonutrition and nanoparticles in UV protection, as well as their mechanism of action and safety concerns. We propose several photoprotection recommendations as a presetting framework for future research to meet the functional demands in the cosmetics and wellness industry.