Applications of nanomedicine in dermatology: use of nanoparticles in various therapies and imaging.

Background: Nanoscale technology is rapidly being incorporated into medicine. Nanodermatology concentrates on the use of nanomaterials (sized less than 1000 nm) on the skin. This article gives basic descriptions of various nanomaterials currently used in dermatology.

Methods: Studies retrievable through PubMed and other relevant literature from the nanotechnology industry pertaining to the use of nanoparticles in dermatology are reviewed. The authors provide their insight into potential applications for skin conditions.

Results: Nanotechnology-based products and technology have a promising, inevitable future in medicine particularly in dermatology, such as prevention of disease, treatment, and imaging with less invasiveness.

Conclusions: The advent of nanoparticles including nanostructured lipid particles and solid lipid nanoparticles, dendrimers, and quantum dots have already many cosmetic applications as well as great potential in dermatologic applications.