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VeilleNanos - Nano and cosmetics

Nano and cosmetics

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Dossier: Nanos in cosmetics

By the AVICENN team – Last modification July 2024

Almost all cosmetic products contain nanos: toothpastes, sunscreens, anti-aging creams, foundations, nail polishes, mascaras, eyeliners, lipsticks, hair dyes, blushes, powders, soaps, shower gels, deodorants…

These nanos are mainly colorants, texture agents, antibacterial or UV filters.

Despite the labeling obligation (theoretically in force in Europe since 2013, but insufficiently applied) and the publication of a pseudo “catalog” by the European Commission in 2017 / 2019, the precise identification of nanoparticles in cosmetics is still very difficult today for consumers and health authorities, unless they resort to laboratory analysis.

Due to a lack of reliable data, their associated health risks are still poorly identified and assessed.
As for the risks to the environment, they are still insufficiently taken into account by the risk assessment and regulating authorities.

Where are nanos in cosmetics, what are they used for, how can they be detected and can they be replaced? How are they managed in France and in Europe? What are their risks to human health and ecosystems? These information sheets explore these different questions and will be enriched as we continue to monitor and receive your contributions.

Upcoming Nano Agenda

22
Sep.
2025
Innovative Research Paths in Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (Advanced Nano 2025, Krakow – Poland)
Krakow
Conference
29
Sep.
2025
15th Meeting on Nanoscience Advances (MNA 2025) (C’Nano, Porquerolles Island – France)
Porquerolles island
Conference
research
nanosciences
research

30
Sep.
2025
Nanomaterials: Best practices in nanomaterials risk prevention: awareness-raising and laboratory scenarios (CNRS, Paris – France)
Paris
Training
  • Training for nanomaterial handlers (technicians, engineers, PhD students, researchers, etc.) and prevention assistants
  • Organizers: CNRS
  • Objectives: learn about the risks involved in handling nanomaterials and the prevention and protection measures to be implemented, as well as best practices for limiting exposure.
  • Topics covered:
    • Health effects / Risk assessment
    • Preventive measures / Good laboratory practice / Time and space management / Collective and individual protection / Cleaning methods for surfaces, materials and equipment / Product storage / Product management
  • Hands-on workshops:
    • Implementing best practices when handling nanometric powders / Case studies / Assessment & recommendations
    • Case studies: risk analysis and recommendations
    • Examples of workstation design involving nanomaterials
  • Website: https://formation.ifsem.cnrs.fr/training/1027/4426

Any questions or comments? This information sheet compiled by AVICENN is intended to be completed and updated. Please feel free to contribute.

This file was originally created in February 2019

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