Why does sunscreen contain nanomaterials in the first place?

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30. October 2018

Two different groups of UV-blockers are used in sunscreen to protect against UV radiation: inorganic (also called mineral) and organic UV-blocker. Both types often absorb the radiation and release it with less energy (e.g. as heat); however, some of the radiation can also be reflected. Both organic and inorganic UV-blocker can be contained in nanoform. From the first group, there are MBBT and TBPT as organic compounds but as insoluble nanoparticles that absorb UV light. Titanium dioxide or zinc oxide belong to the group of inorganic UV-Blockers. The nanoforms do not leave a white film on the skin, which many users prefer for aesthetic reasons.

 

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