Volume 105
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Santos, C. M., Santos, I. C. V., Santos, T. F., Jacinto Almeida, R. L., & Nascimento, J. H. O. (2025). 30-year scientific legacy and future of nanoparticles in next-generation cosmetic applications. Particuology, 105, 288-314. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.partic.2025.08.012
30-year scientific legacy and future of nanoparticles in next-generation cosmetic applications
Caroliny M. Santos a b *, Isabel Cristina V. Santos a b, Thiago F. Santos a b, Raphael Lucas Jacinto Almeida a, J.H.O. Nascimento a b *
a Postgraduate Program in Chemical Engineering, Technology Center, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Av. Prof. Sen. Salgado Filho, 3000, Natal, Rio Grande do Norte, 59072-970, Brazil
b GPIMN - Micro and Nanotechnologies Innovation Research Group, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil
10.1016/j.partic.2025.08.012
Volume 105, October 2025, Pages 288-314
Received 2 April 2025, Revised 14 July 2025, Accepted 18 August 2025, Available online 23 August 2025, Version of Record 3 September 2025.
E-mail: carolinyminely@hotmail.com; heriberto.nascimento@ufrn.br

Highlights

• Nanocosmetics studies peaked in 2023 with 270 papers, growing 18 % yearly.

• Organic, inorganic and carbon NPs boost efficacy with greener, low-tox methods.

• Nanocosmetics market exceeds $200B, driven by metallic and hybrid nanoparticles.


Abstract

This study analyzes 30 years (1993–2023) of advancements in nanoparticle (NPs) use in cosmetics, mapping the shift from traditional cosmetics to cosmeceuticals. This transition integrates aesthetic and therapeutic benefits, driven by scientific innovation, consumer demand for multifunctional products, and sustainability. Cosmeceuticals, popularized by Albert Kligman, combine cosmetic and pharmaceutical properties. The 1990s introduced bioactive ingredients like alpha-hydroxy acids, while the 2000s emphasized natural, eco-friendly materials. Nanotechnology, prominent in the 2010s, introduced nanocarriers like liposomes and solid lipid NPs, enhancing skin penetration and targeted delivery for anti-aging, UV protection, and hair care. The cosmetics market grew from USD 532.43 billion in 2017 to a projected USD 805.61 billion by 2023, driven by nanocosmeceuticals. Recent trends focus on green synthesis using biodegradable materials like cellulose nanofibers and sustainable practices, exemplified by L'Oréal's zero plastic pollution goal by 2025. Regulatory uncertainties and nanotoxicity concerns remain, underscoring the need for safe, sustainable innovations to shape the industry's future.

Graphical abstract
Keywords
Topic; Release; Drugs; Aesthetics; Nanotechnology