Nanotechnology is the science of manipulating atoms and
molecules at a nanoscale (Wikipedia).I didn’t realize that nanotechnology is
all around us and that it is incorporated in our daily lives whether we know it
or not. The part of the lecture that appealed to me the most is when James
Gimzewski talks about nanotechnology in cosmetics. I thought that makeup was always temporary,
but with the nanotechnology, it could have long-term harmful or beneficial
effects on one’s face. Being an avid cosmetics user, this really sparked my
attention and I knew that there were certain products in cosmetics that are or
can be harmful, but learning about nanotechnology, there seems to be a possible
alternatives to the dangerous ingredients in cosmetics.
(http://nanoday.com/blog/single/130/use-of-nanotechnology-in-cosmetics-industry)
Many makeup products have paraben in it which is usually
used as a preservative. Paraben is used to prolong the life of the cosmetic and
in combination with other products, they are used to prevent microbial growth.
One way that nanoparticles can possibly replace parabens is by combining the idea
of abraxane which is an anticancer drug for breast cancer, and coating the particles
so that they are soluble and antimicrobial. Silver nanoparticles can also be used
to give cosmetics the antimicrobial effect. These alternatives give
nanotechnology a bright future in terms of making cosmetics safer to use.
(http://www.makeuptalk.com/read-the-labels-toxins-in-your-makeup/)
Another possible beneficial effect of nanoparticles is using
it as topical medicine. Some nanoparticles can pass through the skin and other
cells. Although this as seen as a complication that the nanoparticles can be
penetrated deeper because of skin lesions, I think it can be used in a positive
way. The nanoparticle has to be sized so that it cannot penetrate though organ cell
walls. Nanoparticles
can emerge as the next big technology in terms of medicine since it is so
versatile.
(http://nanomed.yolasite.com/applications-in-medicinal-robotics.php)
Nanotechnology in cosmetics helps expand the art community
in which people can enhance their natural beauty, disguise themselves, or
become someone completely different. This can be a way for someone to express
themselves and how they are feeling.
Works Cited
Mullens, Anne. "Parabens: What Are They, and Are They
Really That Bad?" Best Health Mag.
Reader's Digest Magazines. Web.
"Nanotechnology." Wikipedia. Wikimedia Foundation. Web.
"Nanotechnology in Cosmetics." Nanowerk. Nanowerk. Web.
"Parabens." FDA.
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Web. 22 May 2015.
Raj, Silpa et al. “Nanotechnology in Cosmetics:
Opportunities and Challenges.” Journal of
Pharmacy & Bioallied Sciences 4.3 (2012): 186–193. PMC. Web.
"Silver Nanoparticles: Properties and
Applications." Sigma-Aldrich.
Sigma-Aldrich Co. LLC. Web. 22 May 2015.
UConlineprogram.
“Nanotech Jim pt1-pt6.” Youtube. Youtube, 21 May 2012. Web.
I would agree that using nanotechnology in cosmetics can have both harmful and beneficial effects. I think this directly stems with the inherent haziness of new technologies and how we directly apply them to the human experience. Like for many other applications, if participants of the application process are careful, there should be little problems.
ReplyDeleteOn a happier note, I appreciate your perspective regarding your experiences with cosmetics. Its always refreshing to read and learn about something I have little interaction with.
I really like how you incorporate cosmetics as part of the art community as a way for people to enhance their natural beauty or transform into someone else. Nanotechnology is definitely promising for all aspects of our lives, including making cosmetics safer for long-term use. Who knows, maybe the nanoparticles used in cosmetics can also play a medicinal role to the user at the same time. Do you consider nanotechnology itself an art as well? If you have a second, I recommend you look up NanoArt Exhibition!
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