Zinc Oxide News and Research

RSS

Zinc Oxide is a compound that may enhance immune function, especially when administered by inhalation.

Incidence of skin cancer cases increases particularly among teenagers

With the family beach vacation right around the corner, keeping children's skin safe under the hot, summer sun should be top of mind for every parent. Recently, doctors at Nationwide Children's Hospital have seen an increase in the incidence of skin cancer cases among children ages 5-16-years-old, and particularly among teenagers. In fact, melanoma - cancer of the skin's pigment elements - is now responsible for approximately one out of 10 cancer cases in adolescents ages 15-19-years-old.

3 Jun 2010

Potential toxicity of zinc nanoparticles in sunscreen products

Scientists are reporting that particle size affects the toxicity of zinc oxide, a material widely used in sunscreens. Particles smaller than 100 nanometers are slightly more toxic to colon cells than conventional zinc oxide. Solid zinc oxide was more toxic than equivalent amounts of soluble zinc, and direct particle to cell contact was required to cause cell death. Their study is in ACS' Chemical Research in Toxicology, a monthly journal.

8 Apr 2010

New sensor could help diagnose and treat a variety of diseases

A tiny new sensor could provide fresh, inexpensive diagnosis and treatment methods for people suffering from a variety of diseases.

22 Jan 2010

USGS researchers examine PAHs and PCBs sources in urban environment

Toxic dust: Toxins in coal-tar-based sealcoats in parking lots may be the culprit in contaminated house dust, according to a USGS study. PAHs - or polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons - are large molecules found in oil, coal and tar deposits, and can have toxic effects.

21 Nov 2009

Tips for treating age-related dermatologic concerns

Everyone expects their bodies to change as they get older. From wrinkles and sagging skin to brittle bones and aches and pains, the aging process is inevitable. In addition, there are a number of medical dermatologic conditions that surface with age that can cause people even more stress. Fortunately, dermatologists can help diagnose and treat these conditions no matter when they strike.

11 Nov 2009

Common myths about sun exposure, sunscreen and vitamin D

When it comes to vitamin D, consumers are bombarded with mixed messages about the best source for this essential nutrient. While some may argue that small doses of intentional sun exposure are safe, dermatologists point out that the risk of developing skin cancer from ultraviolet (UV) radiation far outweighs the benefit of stimulating vitamin D production - particularly when enriched foods and supplements are safe and effective sources of this vitamin.

11 Nov 2009

New non-toxic and environmentally friendly method for making tiny nanorods of zinc oxide

A non-toxic and environmentally friendly way to make tiny nanorods of zinc oxide has been developed for the first time by researchers in Saudi Arabia. The approach, described in the current issue of the International Journal of Nanoparticles, could allow the nanorods to be used safely in medical and for other applications.

19 Aug 2009

Overcoming the big ‘nanotech’ challenges

Whether in the fields of medicine, sustainable energy supply or environmental protection, without making use of nanotechnology we will not be capable of overcoming the challenges which the future presents. In parallel with these efforts, though, it is essential that we examine the new technology very carefully for potential risks, such as those presented by free nanoparticles.

14 Jul 2009

Nanoparticles in cosmetics may be harmful to the environment

Using aquatic microbes as their "canary-in-a-cage," scientists from Ohio have reported that nanoparticles now being added to cosmetics, sunscreens, and hundreds of other personal care products may be harmful to the environment.

29 Mar 2009

Scientists coax bright white light from zinc oxide

Duke University and United States Army scientists have found that a cheap and nontoxic sunburn and diaper rash preventative can be made to produce brilliant light best suited to the human eye.

18 Dec 2008

Nanoparticles, so small, seep right through the skin

Scientists are warning that tiny particles - nanoparticles - are so small that they can be absorbed through the skin.

1 Oct 2008

When particles are so small that they seep right through skin

Scientists are finding that particles that are barely there - tiny objects known as nanoparticles that have found a home in electronics, food containers, sunscreens, and a variety of applications - can breech our most personal protective barrier: The skin.

30 Sep 2008