In vitro percutaneous absorption of silver nanoparticles

There is a growing interest in the debate on nanoparticle safety for topical use. The benefits of nanoparticles have been shown in several scientific fields, but little is known about their potential to penetrate the skin lies. This study aims at evaluating in vitro silver nanoparticles skin penetration. Experiments were performed using the Franz diffusion cell method with intact and damaged human skin. Physiological solution was used as receiving phase and 70 microg/cm2 of silver nanoparticles dispersed in synthetic sweat were applied as donor phase to the outer surface of the skin for 24h. The receptor fluid measurements were performed by Electro Thermal Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (ETAAS). Silver concentration of 0.2 microg/L was found in the receiving solutions of two cells, in which damaged skin membranes were set up. In the other tests, we obtained a silver concentration below the limit of detection in the receiving cells. Our experimental data show that silver nanoparticles permeation through intact and damaged skin is negligible. These findings are consistent with previously published results. Further researches are necessary to explore skin absorption of silver nanoparticles.