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Several studies have shown the health risks, including cancer and cell death, posed by nanoparticles, molecules less than one thousandth the size of a human hair. But despite such findings, many companies are putting these particles into skincare products. Even worse, the FDA is allowing them to do so without adequate testing of the new technology or its consequences for human health.

In the absence of effective labeling or testing standards, Friends of the Earth has compiled a guide, Nanoparticles and Sunscreens: A Consumer Guide for Avoiding Nano Sunscreens, so that you can protect yourself and your family from the dangers of nanoparticles.

We asked 128 skincare companies about the ingredients of their sunscreens. Only nine confirmed that they keep nanoparticles out of their products; we know of 19 that do use the technology, either through their own statements or from other sources. Staggeringly, over 90 companies refused to say what's in their products.

Use the guide to see which brands are nano-free and which are to be avoided. Then sign our petition calling on the FDA to require sensible safety testing of products containing nanoparticles and mandatory labeling so consumers can protect themselves.

- Ian Illuminato
Friends of the Earth