Fig. 8
From: Dye-doped silica nanoparticles: synthesis, surface chemistry and bioapplications
(adapted from Anselmo and Mitragotri (2015))
Silica nanoparticles are regularly used as core materials in core@shell nanomaterials designed for biomedical applications. For example, Sebashells are currently undergoing clinical trials for the treatment of acne. a Particle architecture consists of a silica core and a gold shell. When excited with near infrared light the gold shell heats and ablates sebaceous glands. b Sebashells are applied topically and penetrate sebaceous glands through ultrasound stimulation. NIR laser light is then used for gold shell to induce heat production. c Such heat treatment can result in deep glandular thermolysis