Summary:
UCLA researchers from the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry have developed a novel material for enhanced photoprotection in sunscreens.
Background:
Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun contributes to premature skin aging, sunburn, and increased risk of skin cancer. Traditional UV filters such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide nanoparticles are incorporated into available sunscreens to minimize UV-induced skin damage. Such nanoparticles tend to form irregular and non-uniform shapes and sizes which can lead to uneven UV absorption. Existing nanoparticle formulations can also aggregate and degrade over time, reducing their efficacy. The development of novel sunscreens with improved photostability and high consumer satisfaction remains a challenge. There remains an unmet need for a long-lasting, environmentally friendly, and consistent sun protection technique in commercial sunscreen products.
Innovation:
UCLA researchers from the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry have developed a novel material for UV light protection in sunscreens. The material zinc oxide tetrapods with nanocrystal morphology is formed through flame transport at high temperatures. The uniform and three-dimensional shape of the nanocrystals enhances UV absorption and suspension stability by minimizing aggregation. This novel material utilizes skin-friendly materials to yield photostable and consumer friendly sunscreen formulations. The structure of the zinc oxide tetrapod creates a uniform and robust protective layer on the skin surface, enhancing its photoprotective properties. The reported innovation can revolutionize the development of photoprotective materials by providing superior and enhanced protective qualities.
Potential Applications:
• Sunscreens and daytime skincare products
• UV-blocking films and packaging materials
• Photostable UV-protective lotions and creams
• Protective surface coatings for medical and industrial use
• UV-protective textiles and clothing
Advantages:
• Uniform morphology for consistent UV absorption
• Reduced nanoparticle aggregation and improved stability in formulations
• Enhanced photostability and long-lasting UV protection
• Improved texture and consumer appeal
• Compatibility with well-tolerated, globally approved cosmetic ingredients
Development-To-Date:
First successful demonstration of the invention completed as of August, 2024.
Relevant Publications:
1. Mishra, Y. K.; Adelung, R. ZnO Tetrapod Materials for Functional Applications. Mater. Today Chem. 2018, 21, 631-651.
2. Addae, A. J.; Weiss, P. S. Standardizing the White Cast Potential of Sunscreens with Metal Oxide Ultraviolet Filters. Acc. Mater. Res. 2024, 5, 392-399.
3. Nasajpour, A.; Mandla, S.; Shree, S.; Mostafavi, E.; Sharifi, R.; Khalilpour, A.; Saghazadeh, S.; Hassan, S.; Mitchell, M. J.; Leijten, J.; Hou, X.; Moshaverinia, A.; Annabi, N.; Adelung, R.; Mishra, Y. K.; Shin, S. R.; Tamayol, A.; Khademhosseini, A. Nanostructured Fibrous Membranes with Rose Spike-Like Architecture. Nano Letters 2017, 17, 6235-6240.
4. Nasajpour, A.; Samandari, M.; Patil, C. D.; Abolhassani, R.; Suryawanshi, R. K.; Adelung, R.; Rubahn, H.-G.; Khademhosseini, A.; Mishra, Y. K.; Shukla, D.; Tamayol, A.; Weiss, P. S. Nanoengineered Antiviral Fibrous Arrays with RoseThorn-Inspired Architectures. ACS Materials Letters 2021 3, 1566-1571.
Reference:
UCLA Case No. 2024-259