Advancements in nanoparticles for skin care: a comprehensive review of properties, applications, and future perspectives

Abstract Nanoparticles are extremely small particles with dimensions in the range of one to hundred nanometers and consist of varied physicochemical properties contrasted to their bulk counterparts. Nanoparticles display properties of high biocompatibility, low cytotoxicity, and high stability thereby causing its appreciation in various spheres, especially in nano pharmaceuticals and nano cosmeceuticals. The skin is the largest organ of the human body and the first line of defense. The plethora of functions carried out by the skin requires it to be protected against any damage. A variety of skin problems such as dryness, aging, inflammation, and low elasticity may arise due to exposure to harsh chemicals, physical stress or simply due to aging. These problems often involve irritability, discomfort, and loss of aestheticism and many of the traditional methods have not been able to answer these raising concerns. Nanoparticles used in skin protection aim to treat or prevent such skin ailments providing it with various utilitarian active ingredients and providing active solutions to global concerns related to skin. This article comprehensively explores the dynamic nature, contemporary methodologies, and future outlook of nanoparticles in the realm of skin protection, aiming to fulfill the aspiration of safeguarding the skin.