TiO₂nanoparticles as an effective UV-B radiation skin-protective compound in sunscreens

Abstract

Protecting human skin against harmful UV-B radiation coming from the sun is currently a problem. Due to the decreased thickness of the ozone layer, a more dangerous amount of UV-B light reaches the surface of our planet. This causes increased frequency of skin diseases. Titanium dioxide (TiO2) fine particles are embedded with sunscreens into the skin to effectively attenuate UV-B radiation. This study evaluates the most appropriate size of such particles assuming they are spheres. The distribution of TiO2 particles within the skin, achieved with topically applied sunscreens, is determined experimentally by the tape-stripping technique. Computer code implementing the Monte Carlo method is used to simulate photon migration within the plain 20 µm thick horny layer matrix partially filled with nano-sized TiO2 particles. Dependences of harmful UV-B radiation of 307–311 nm absorbed by, backscattered from and transmitted through the horny layer on the concentration of TiO2 particles are obtained and analysed. As a result, particles of 62 nm are found to be the most effective in protecting skin against UV-B light.

Novel approaches to flexible visible transparent hybrid films for ultraviolet protection

“…29,30 Numerous examples of hybrid structures made by combining polymers with inorganic materials based on metal oxides can be found. [31][32][33][34][35][36][37] For an updated comprehensive revision of the large number of design concepts in this field and their applications, we refer the reader to a recent extensive review article by Sanchez et al 38 Within the scope of this article, we will consider hybrid materials those formed by a combination of inorganic compounds and organic or partially organic polymers.…”

Efficacy of a Model Nano-TiO2 Sunscreen Preparation as a Function of Ingredients Concentration and Ultrasonication Treatment

“…10 TiO2 NPs are able to increase SPF in both UVA 10 and UVB. 11 Size of the nanoparticles also appears to be an important factor affecting SPF in sunscreen products. 11,12 On the other hand, cytotoxic effects of nanoparticles is an important concern nowadays.…”

“…11 Size of the nanoparticles also appears to be an important factor affecting SPF in sunscreen products. 11,12 On the other hand, cytotoxic effects of nanoparticles is an important concern nowadays. Parameters such as concentration, administration method, crystalline form, size of particles and time of exposure have been shown to strongly affect the toxicity of such nanoparticles.…”

Optical Design of Porous ZnO/TiO2 Films for Highly Transparent Glasses with Broadband Ultraviolet Protection

“…are generally used, which have been studied in various UV shielding applications [8][9][10][11]. These materials efficiently absorb the UV radiation by excitation of electrons since their wide bandgap corresponds to the wavelength of UV.…”