Another bonus point for nanoparticles and Mother Nature – new research says naturally occurring nanoparticles from the English ivy plant can act as UV filters and protect the skin from sun exposure.
The researchers found that particles in the aerial roots of the plant can absorb and scatter light. The only difference between the nanoparticles of titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, the current basis of most sunscreen products, is that ivy nanoparticls do not absorb and scatter light in the visible spectrum – they remain almost invisible when applied to the skin.
The study suggests that these nanoparticles will become a safer and preferred alternative to titanium and zinc oxide. Titanium and dioxide nanoparticles are a completely safe, FDA regulated formulation base but with metal-based particles there is always some hesitation.
To read more about these new findings, click here.
Let me know what you think, when it comes to sun protection, would you opt for Mother Nature or trust the current formulas?
Tags: English ivy, nanoparticles, sunscreen
