The present invention provides a nanoparticle comprising a core comprising a metal; and a corona comprising a plurality of ligands covalently linked to the core, the plurality of ligands including at least a first species of ligand comprising an ethylene glycol portion and an amine group and at least a second species of ligand comprising a carbohydrate group, for use in a method of treating a cancer, particularly skin cancer, in a mammalian subject. Also disclosed are methods of treatment by administering the nanoparticles alone or in combination with radiotherapy.