What are Nanoparticles  ?

The nanoparticles we use are tiny versions of the same safe ingredients that we have been using for decades. The only difference is that they are used at an extremely small scale, the nanometric scale.
1 millimetre = 1,000,000 nanometres

In some countries, where regulation recquires, all ingredients present in the form of nanomaterials are clearly indicated in the list of ingredients on packaging. The name of these ingredients are followed by the word "nano" in brackets : [nano]

What are they  used for ?

Which ones do  we use ?

At L’Oréal, we only use 4 ingredients at the nanometric scale.

  • Nano titanium dioxide
  • Nano zinc oxide
  • Nano carbon black
  • Nano silica

Why and how  do we use them ?

We only use nanoparticles when they enhance product performance: provide a higher quality and comfort, a better texture, or a greater colour intensity.  

The nanoparticles we use are safe, and their safety is confirmed by the SCCS.

We use nanoparticles in products that are not inhaled. They are not used in aerosols.

Nanoparticles we use cannot penetrate the skin, including damaged skin. 

When nanoparticles are present in our cosmetic products, it is labelled as [nano] in the full ingredients list found on packaging, in the countries where regulation recquires it. 

 

 

Why are they  questioned ?

Nanoparticles are subject to controversy due to their possible impact when applied on damaged skin, and their potential toxicity in the event where they are ingested or inhaled (due to their small size).

Fact:

  • Nanomaterials are deemed safe for cosmetic use by the EU’s Scientific Committee for Consumer Safety (SCCS).

You can find more information here.