Macro- and Nano-Zinc Oxides for Transparent Broad Spectrum UV Protection

摘要

Zinc oxide (chemical formula: ZnO; mineral name: zincite) has long been known to mankind and has been used in medical ointments due to its mild antibacterial properties and positive effect on wound healing since ancient times. Nowadays, the use of zinc oxide in sunscreens has been discussed controversially in the Europe Union, despite the positive scientific opinion issued by the EU. Besides being an authorized UV filter in e.g. USA, Switzerland and Australia, the use of ZnO as a UV filter has not been permitted in Europe up to now. In this article we discuss the UV-filtering properties of zinc oxide, macro as well as nano grades, and reveal the benefits thereof with the example of sunscreen formulations. Furthermore, we display the legislative status of ZnO as a UV filter.