Abstract

NANOTECHNOLOGY IN COSMETICS AND COSMECEUTICALS: PROGRESS AND PERSPECTIVES

Prajwal R.*, Jagadish G., Manoj M., Manasa P., Anju K. P.

.

Abstract

Nanotechnology is transforming the cosmetics and cosmeceutical industry by enabling the development of products that are more efficient, stable, and consumer-friendly. Nanoparticles, which range between 1 and 100 nanometers in size, exhibit unique properties such as a large surface area, improved solubility, transparency, and the ability to deliver active ingredients in a slow, controlled, and targeted manner. These qualities make them highly suitable for transporting bioactive compounds like vitamins, antioxidants, UV filters, and peptides into deeper layers of the skin, offering longer-lasting and more noticeable results compared to conventional formulations. Based on their composition, nanoparticles are broadly classified into two groups: inorganic and organic. Inorganic nanoparticles such as gold, silver, titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, and aluminum oxide are well recognized for their roles in UV protection, antimicrobial activity, and anti-aging formulations. On the other hand, organic nanoparticles—including liposomes, solid lipid nanoparticles, nanoemulsions, cubosomes, dendrimers, and chitosan systems—are widely used to deliver both hydrophilic and lipophilic actives. These carriers are applied in a wide range of cosmetic and personal care products, including sunscreens, moisturizers, antiaging creams, whitening agents, acne treatments, perfumes, and hair care solutions. To prepare nanoparticles with the desired size and stability, methods such as solvent evaporation, Nano precipitation, Ultrasonication, high-pressure homogenization, and spray drying are employed, while safety and quality are assessed using techniques like light scattering, zeta potential analysis, spectroscopy, and microscopy. Although nanotechnology-based cosmetics provide enhanced absorption, controlled release, greater stability, and improved product feel, concerns remain regarding deep tissue penetration, oxidative stress, bioaccumulation, environmental impact, and the absence of strict safety regulations. In conclusion, nanotechnology holds tremendous promise for advancing cosmetic science by combining effectiveness with innovation, but long-term studies on safety, sustainability, and regulation are essential to ensure its responsible application and to build consumer trust.

Keywords: Nanotechnology, Cosmetics, Controlled release, Cosmetic science.