Scientific testing has found that nanoparticles are used in beauty products sold by eight leading cosmetic brands in Australia.

The potential health risks associated with nanotechnology are largely unknown.

But it has been suggested that if nanoparticles penetrate the skin, they could pose similar risks to asbestos and may even cause cancer.

It is also likely that nanomaterials exist in other products like sunscreen and socks.

The research has put pressure on Federal and State Governments across Australia to follow Europe’s lead and introduce the mandatory labelling and safety testing of products containing nanotechnology.

2SER’s Justin Cinque spoke to Lee Rhiannon, Member of the New South Wales Legislative Council for The Greens