L'Oreal UV Perfect
Australian consumer organisation Choice has tested 12 sunscreens for nanoparticles.
It found one product, L'Oreal UV Perfect, contained significant levels of these tiny particles.
The jury's still out on the health risks associated with nanoparticles – particles many thousands of times smaller than the width of a human hair. But concerns have been raised that if nanoparticles are absorbed through the skin they could be capable of causing cell damage.
Nano-forms of zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are used in some sunscreens. These minerals provide an effective physical barrier to the sun's rays. But it's not yet known whether nanoparticles can be absorbed from sunscreen or whether they present a health risk.
"Nano-free" options
Manufacturers aren't required to label sunscreens to reveal whether they contain nanoparticles. If you want to avoid these materials, nano-free sunscreens are available.
The Cancer Society told us its sunscreens don't contain any nanoparticles.
Five products tested by Choice and sold in stores here (see our table) also contained no nanoparticles or would qualify as "nano-free" under proposed industry criteria. Choice says these criteria allow for up to 10 percent accidental contamination.
Two of the "nano-free" products, Invisible Zinc and Le Tan Sheer Daily Mineral Moisturising Sunscreen, were also free from chemical absorbers. These chemicals absorb UV light and stop it reaching the skin. However, they can cause skin irritation or allergies in some people.
Protecting yourself from the summer sun is essential, especially when ultraviolet radiation levels are at their peak between 11am and 4pm. As well as using sunscreen, limit your time in the sun and wear protective clothing.
| Sunscreens |
| No nanoparticles detected |
| Hamilton Everyday Face Sunscreen |
| Nivea Sun Moisturising Sunscreen Lotion |
| Qualify as nano-free |
| Ego Sun Sense Toddler Milk |
| Invisible Zinc (a) |
| Le Tan Sheer Daily Mineral Moisturising Sunscreen (a) |
| Contains nanoparticles |
| L'Oreal UV Perfect |
Guide to the table
Testing was done by the Australian consumer organisation Choice. Only products we found available in New Zealand are listed.
(a) = product does not contain chemical absorbers.
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If these tiny particles can enter your body through the skin, perhaps they are so small they can exit the same way? Therefore: no worries.