Analysis for the potential of polystyrene and TiO2 nanoparticles to induce skin irritation, phototoxicity, and sensitization

► Polystyrene and TiO2 nanoparticles (NPs) induce no phototoxicity, acute cutaneous irritation, or skin sensitization. ► Polystyrene and TiO2 NPs were not dermal sensitizers. ► Results from human skin equivalent models (HSEMs) correspond well with those from animal models. ► HSEM might be a useful alternative model for evaluation of dermal nanotoxicity. The human skin equivalent model (HSEM) is well known as an attractive alternative model for evaluation of dermal toxicity. However, only limited data are available on the usefulness of a HSEM for nanotoxicity testing. This study was designed to investigate cutaneous toxicity of polystyrene and TiO2 nanoparticles using cultured keratinocytes, a HSEM, and an animal model. In addition, we also evaluated the skin sensitization potential of nanoparticles using a local lymph node assay with incorporation of BrdU. Findings from the present study indicate that polystyrene and TiO2 nanoparticles do not induce phototoxicity, acute cutaneous irritation, or skin sensitization. Results from evaluation of the HSEMs correspond well with those from animal models. Our findings suggest that the HSEM might be a useful alternative model for evaluation of dermal nanotoxicity.