Titanium dioxide is a naturally occurring mineral used in cosmetics, sunscreens, and personal care products. It acts as a UV filter, pigment, brightener, and opacifier. It is considered safe for use in cosmetics and sunscreens, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). However, when inhaled in powder form, it may pose a potential carcinogenic risk.
["Anti-Aging: Titanium dioxide helps protect the skin from sun damage, which can contribute to premature aging.", "UV Protection: Titanium dioxide is an effective broad-spectrum sunscreen ingredient that protects the skin from both UVA and UVB rays.", "Skin Lightening: Titanium dioxide can help lighten the color and tone of products, making them more visually appealing.", "Whitening: Titanium dioxide is often used to impart whiteness to food products, cosmetics, and personal care items, like toothpaste.", "Antibacterial: Titanium dioxide has antibacterial properties, which can help eliminate odor-causing bacteria in deodorant.", "Non-irritating: Titanium dioxide is a non-irritating mineral that is suitable for sensitive skin.", "Non-comedogenic: Titanium dioxide is a water-loving, non-comedogenic ingredient that washes off easily, making it suitable for those who are concerned about clogged pores, breakouts, and skin sensitivity.", "Protects against harmful UV rays: Titanium dioxide is used as a physical broad-spectrum UVA and UVB blocker.", "Prevents premature aging: Titanium dioxide can help prevent premature aging and skin cancer by protecting the skin from UV damage.", "Invisible after application: Titanium dioxide can be formulated to be invisible after application, making it a good choice for those who do not want a white cast."]
Suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin.
Generally, titanium dioxide has no side effects when used topically. However, powders with titanium dioxide should not be inhaled, as they may pose a potential carcinogenic risk.
Avoid loose powders, blushes, eyeshadows, or aerosols that contain titanium dioxide. Stick to safe cream- or lotion-type formulations and opt for products that contain a micronized formulation.
Titanium dioxide is a naturally occurring mineral sourced from ilmenite ore.
Titanium dioxide is listed as an allowed color additive used in coloring products, including cosmetics and personal care products, provided it meets certain specifications.
Titanium dioxide is listed as an approved colorant for food, drugs, and medical devices.
Titanium dioxide is also used in makeup, deodorant, soap, shampoo, and nail polish. It helps lighten the color and tone of products, making them more visually appealing. It also has antibacterial properties, which can help eliminate odor-causing bacteria in deodorant. Titanium dioxide is commonly used in mineral-based sunscreens to reflect and scatter UVA and UVB rays, providing effective sun protection for all skin types, including babies' and sensitive skin. However, titanium dioxide may become dangerous when it is nanoparticle size. Nanoparticles can be 1000 times smaller than the width of a human hair. They have not been properly assessed for human or environmental health effects, nor are they adequately regulated. Made Safe only allows titanium dioxide as part of sunscreen solutions and diaper creams; all titanium dioxide must be non-nanoparticle. Made Safe does not allow titanium dioxide in any other personal care or household products.