Use of nanotechnology applied to sunscreens: Technological prospection based on patents

Excessive exposure without adequate protection to ultraviolet rays promotes short- and long-term damage. Therefore, the use of sunscreens is strongly recommended by health organizations. However, the UV filters of these cosmetics have limitations such as photoinstability, allergies, systemic absorption, and high levels of actives. Thus, nanotechnology seeks to overcome these limitations by encapsulating photoprotective filters to improve their characteristics. Therefore, this study aims to provide a technological overview of the use of nanotechnology in sunscreens. So, the search in patent databases covered the period from January 2017 to March 2023 using the descriptor nano* and the patent classification A61Q17/04. After analyzing the scope of these documents, 34 patents were selected for review. Among the findings, most inventions used nanoparticles to encapsulate organic filters, inorganic filters, and natural compounds. Other nanotechnologies, such as nanocapsules, nanoemulsions, nanoliposomes, and microspheres were employed. Therefore, it was observed that using nanotechnology improved the efficacy and safety of cosmetic products through the encapsulation of photoprotective filters. Thus, it is expected that new sun protection cosmetics will enter the market to meet the needs of consumers and fill the existing gaps.