Avanços nanotecnológicos em produtos cosméticos

: perceção dos consumidores

Abstract

Physical appearance is increasingly a fundamental factor in the self-confidence and
well-being of individuals in society, and cosmetics contribute greatly to this demand. Although
cosmetic products have been used for thousands of years, their innovation over time has been
remarkable. Currently, the use of nanotechnology in cosmetic products is increasingly being
considered by several companies. However, exposure to nanocosmetics must consider their
safety for humans and the environment. In this sense, understanding, consumers attitudes,
knowledge, and concerns is critical for making informed decisions and consolidating these
technologies, determining the failure or commercial success of products and the sector's
investment decisions.
Since there are no studiesin Portugal evaluating the public perception of nanomaterials
and their safety, this dissertation aimed to assess the perception of Portuguese consumers
regarding the use of nanotechnology in cosmetic products. A cross-sectional exploratory study
was approved by the Ethics Committee of the School of Sciences and Health Technologies
(ECTS) - Universidade Lusófona (CE.ECTS/P35-23). The exclusion criteria for the selfreported survey were being aged under 18 and participation in other studies related to
nanocosmetics, and it consisted of questions about the sociodemographic and sociocultural
profile; cosmetics consumption habits; and perception of the use of nanotechnology in
cosmetics, including benefits and risks.
A total of 118 participants took part in this study, most female (71%), with an average
age of 39 ± 11 years. About 92% of respondents confirmed using cosmetics daily, especially
oral hygiene products (92%) and hair products (84%). Regarding the factors in choosing
cosmetics, the participants gave greater importance to safety (72%), quality (68%), and efficacy
(68%). Concerning the advantages and efficacy of nanocosmetics, it should be noticed that
around half of the participants considered them to be more advantageous and effective
compared to conventional cosmetics. However, it should be noted that the other half of the
sample is uncertain about these points, indicating that they don't know if they are advantageous
or effective, showing the importance of providing additional information about nanocosmetics.
Even so, in relation to safety, it should be noted that most participants feel safer (24%) or
equally safer (35%) when using nanocosmetics compared to conventional products, and 71%
are not worried about exposure to nanotechnology.

Date of Award	2024
Original language	Portuguese
Supervisor	João Pedro Bernardo Gregório (Supervisor)