ABSTRACT:
Cosmeceuticals, which combine aesthetic benefits with therapeutic properties, have emerged as a result of the cosmetic and personal care industry's rapid evolution. Despite their potential, conventional cosmetic formulations frequently encounter issues like low stability, poor active ingredient solubility, and restricted skin penetration because of the skin's natural barrier. Using materials at the nanoscale (1–100 nm) to improve the delivery and effectiveness of active compounds, nanotechnology has emerged as a game-changing solution. The various uses of nanocarriers, such as liposomes, nanoemulsions, solid lipid nanoparticles (SLN), nanostructured lipid carriers (NLC), and polymeric nanoparticles, are examined in this review. By shielding delicate components from environmental deterioration and promoting their passage through the stratum corneum, these systems increase the stability and bioavailability of substances like vitamins, antioxidants, and peptides. Important developments include the creation of transparent, high-performance sunscreens utilizing nanoparticle-based UV filters like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, as well as controlled release mechanisms for long-term efficacy. However, there are serious safety and environmental issues with the extensive application of nanotechnology in cosmetics. Nanoparticles' distinct physicochemical characteristics, such as their small size and high reactivity, can cause inflammation, oxidative stress, or cytotoxicity. Additionally, a major barrier to industry-wide adoption is the absence of standardized testing procedures and specialized regulatory frameworks. This review comes to the conclusion that, although nanotechnology holds great promise for the future of cosmetics, thorough toxicological research and cooperative regulatory initiatives are necessary to guarantee consumer safety and environmental sustainability.