Dr Karl Lintner introduced the topic by announcing that nano-particles have been used in sunscreens for many years, but only recently has there been negative publicity, with some brands even putting “nano-free” labels on their products. Alexander Kielbassa, Merck Group, maintained that the term “nano” has acquired a new meaning, yet nano titanium dioxide and nano zinc oxide have existed since the early 1980s. Marc Pissivini, R&D director, Coty Lancaster, pointed out that his company has used titanium dioxide for years in sunscreens. “You must make the distinction between when you buy raw materials and when you use it in a cream. If you’re talking about finished product, there is no debate as there are no nano particles in our formulations.”
Ian Tooley, R&D manager, suncare & biopolymers, Croda commented: “There needs to be a line drawn when ingredients become nano-particles.” His view is that the general perception is that information on nano materials is not well co-ordinated, but there is a working group. “In Europe, a number of raw material suppliers get together to develop methods to characterize materials and send them to a testing house. In parallel, regulatory and safety testing is done in collaborating between companies and there is very good coordination regarding safety data.”
Dr Olivier Le Curieux-Belfond, scientific, technical and regulatory expert, Ecomundo, explained that regulations are changing in Europe. “Safety assessement is needed for nano materials and should be seen as an opportunity for full regulatory compliance, strategic choices and transparent communication.” He stressed the need for correct labelling of nano ingredients, which should be indicated in brackets.
Moderator: Karl Lintner, President, Kal'Idees Consultancy
Panel members include:
• Olivier Le Curieux-Belfond, Scientific, Technical and Regulatory Expert, EcoMundo
• Marc Pissavini, R&D Director, Coty Lancaster
• Ian Tooley, R&D Manager (Sun Care & Biopolymers), Croda
• Alexander Kielbassa, Merck Group
• John Tuinstra, representing Jan Dekker