Australian health experts have questioned the need to use nanomaterials in sunscreens on the national current affairs programme Today Tonight, according to a report by Friends of the Earth (FoE) Australia.
Dermatology and cancer experts warned that the size of nanoparticles means there is a significant risk of them being absorbed through the skin, which could in fact increase the risk of the development of skin cancer.
They also highlighted other potential risks, including the development of skin conditions such as eczema.
The statement by FoE also highlights a recent poll of 1,300 people showing that 85% of them support mandatory labelling for nanomaterials in sunscreens.
The survey was commissioned by FoE Australia and carried out by the Australian Institute.
