The cosmetics industry was among the first to implement nanotechnological principles in product development. Of more than one thousand registered nanotechnology-based products on the global market in 2009, more than 13% were classified as products for cosmetic use. In this review we highlight the most important scientific articles, expert opinions by regulatory authorities, and patent literature from Europe and the USA for the time period between 2000 and 2010 concerning the use of nanotechnology in dermatological, dental, and haircare products intended for improving the appearance of the user. We present current and suggested uses of nanotechnology in cosmetics with the main focus on nanomaterials as active substances, carriers and formulation aids. The new functionalities these materials are claimed to introduce are also described. We briefly discuss public opinion of nanotechnology in general, and include the most important definitions related to this emerging technology along with a summary of the general characteristics of nanoparticles and their safety aspects. The aim of the review is, thus, to provide an update on the current status and trends of research and industrial development related to the use of nanotechnology in cosmetics and to give an indication of where the field could be heading in the future. (C) 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.