Lipid nanoparticles: nanocarriers for more effective and safer photoprotective products

Lipid nanoparticles possess a solid particle matrix ideal for the incorporation of lipophilic UV radiation (UVR) filters. Incorporation of the UVR filters into the nanoparticles increases their UVR protective effect compared with oil-in-water emulsions. Due to the solid state of the particle matrix, the release of the UV filters is lower compared with emulsions, thus the UVR filters remain longer on the skin and penetration into the skin and related side effects are reduced. The risk of skin penetration, with potential side effects, of very small-sized particulate UVR protectants, such as titanium dioxide (∼15 nm), has not yet been excluded. These particulates can also be incorporated into the lipid nanoparticles (∼300 nm), the firm enclosure inside the nanoparticles excludes penetration into the skin. At the same time, UVR protection is increased. Lipid nanoparticles can be produced on industrial scale by high-pressure homogenization; all excipients are regulatory authority-accepted. Production of dermal products is proven by cosmetic products already on the market.