Titanium Dioxide For Skin: Everything You Need To Know About It

Know the pros and cons before purchasing a titanium dioxide skin care product.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Sreekar Harinatha, MBBS, MS, MCh, DNB

Dr. Sreekar Harinatha is a double board-certified and award-winning plastic and cosmetic surgeon with 18 years of experience. He specializes in various cosmetic surgeries and treatments, including liposuction, gynecomastia surgery, hair tra... more

Written by Annie Jangam, MSc Experience: 11 years

Annie Jangam is a researcher-turned-content writer with 11 years of experience. She enjoys dissecting complex clinical studies and shuffling through the scientific jargon to make science interesting a... more

Edited by Ramona Sinha, MA (English Literature) Experience: 11 years

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• Jul 26, 2023

Titanium Dioxide For Skin: Everything You Need To Know About It

Image: shutterstock

Titanium dioxide is a mineral extensively used in skin care products like powder-based makeup and sunscreens. But, is titanium dioxide for the skin safe?

Sunscreens with titanium dioxide are good for daily use as they provide efficient UV protection during prolonged sun exposure. While it has been used in the skin care and beauty industry for years now, there have been some concerns about its safety. Read this article to find out all about the use of titanium dioxide for the skin.

Did You Know?

Titanium dioxide also goes by the names titania and titanium(IV) oxide. It is an inorganic compound.

In This Article

What Is Titanium Dioxide?

Image: Shutterstock

Titanium dioxide is an odorless, white inert mineral that is naturally found on the earth’s surface(1). It is a popular natural ingredient in many mineral makeup products. Its bright color, high refractive index, ability to filter UV rays, and opaqueness make it a great pigment extensively used in sunscreens and other skin and personal care products like powders, blushes, soaps, lotions, and toothpastes. It is also used in paints, prosthetics, plastics, ceramics, papers, and food additives.

Trivia

William Gregor, a British mineralogist and clergyman, discovered titanium dioxide in 1791. He identified it at Cornwall in black magnetic sand.

There have been some safety concerns regarding the usage of titanium dioxide in skin care products. How safe is it for the skin? Find out below.

Is Titanium Dioxide Safe For Skin? Are There Any Side Effects?

Topical application of titanium dioxide may cause skin irritation

Image: Shutterstock

Most commercial skin care products contain micronized titanium dioxide coated with alumina, dimethicone, silica, and trimethoxy capryl silane. Hence, it does not penetrate deep into the skin.

Several studies have proven that titanium dioxide, even as nanoparticles, does not penetrate the skin or stratum corneum (SC) (2). A study published in the International Journal Of Environmental Research And Public Health demonstrated that titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2NPs) could not permeate intact and damaged skin (3). It has been suggested that it can exhibit a potentially toxic effect on the skin only after long-term exposure.

It is thought to have carcinogenic properties when taken orally or inhaled. However, none of the studies found any evidence of carcinogenicityⁱXThe ability or tendency of a substance to increase the incidence of tumors or carcinogenesis, i.e., the formation of cancer. of titanium dioxide (4). Also, there is no evidence of adverse effects of titanium dioxide after topical application. However, some people can be allergic to it, and upon topical application, titanium dioxide may:

Irritate your eyes and skin
May cause coughing, phlegm, and shortness of breath (if inhaled).

It is on the Right To Know Hazardous Substance List cited by (5)

Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH)
National Institute for Occupational Safety & Health ( NIOSH)

Since studies are inconclusive, and there is no data on the safe level of exposure, it is important to look for the ‘Made Safe’ seal on the skin care products before buying one.

However, if you are using products with titanium dioxide without any issues, do not panic. It is an effective UV filter and can protect your skin from sun damage. Here are the reasons it is widely used in products.

Uses Of Titanium Dioxide In Skin Care

Woman applying sunscreen containing titanium dioxide

Image: Shutterstock

1. In Sunscreens

Titanium dioxide particles can block harmful ultraviolet light rays and protect your skin from cancer, UV damage, photoagingⁱXPremature aging or skin damage caused by prolonged exposure of the skin to UVA and UVB radiations of the sun or any other radiation. , and oxidative stress. It can scatter both UVA and UVB rays off your skin and is an active ingredient in mineral-based sunscreen products. It is gentle on the skin and does not cause a stinging sensation when applied around the eyes.

Another benefit of using titanium dioxide is that it does not leave a white cast on the skin when used in lower concentrations (3).

2. In Makeup Products

Titanium dioxide is used in cosmetic products as a brightening, thickening, and opacifying agent (3). It is commonly found in loose and pressed powders, eyeshadows, and blushes. The brightly pigmented particles of titanium dioxide refract light rays. This property hides blemishes and skin pigmentation issues. It brightens the skin and gives you the desired results.

3. In Products For Sensitive Skin

Titanium dioxide is an inert earth mineral and is gentle on inflamed or redness-prone skin. Hence, it is commonly used in skin care products approved to be safe for sensitive skin.

Infographic: A Simple Guide To Titanium Dioxide For Skin

Titanium dioxide is an inert chemical that is renowned for its sun-protective properties. This versatile ingredient is found in several products, thanks to the advantages it provides, from UV ray protection to minimizing skin imperfections. Check out the infographic below to learn more about the uses of titanium dioxide in skin care and the common products you find this gentle ingredient in.

a simple guide to titanium dioxide for skin (infographic)

Titanium dioxide is not a new name in the skin care industry. It has been used in powder-based makeup and sunscreens. However, there have been a few safety concerns about using titanium dioxide for the skin. Though there are a few speculations about the ingredient’s toxicity, there is not enough scientific evidence to prove that titanium dioxide is unsafe for your skin. However, if you are allergic to the topical application of titanium dioxide, it may cause a few reactions. Therefore, if you have been using products with titanium dioxide, you may continue using them; otherwise, do a patch test before using.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is titanium dioxide or zinc oxide better?

Zinc oxide is better as a sunscreen than titanium dioxide. Like zinc oxide, titanium dioxide can effectively block UV-B and short-wave UV-A rays. However, it is not as effective as zinc dioxide in blocking long UV-A rays.

Can titanium dioxide cause pimples?

No. Titanium dioxide is non-comedogenicⁱXA term used to describe a property of a substance or product that does not clog the pores of the skin and allows it to breathe. . However, individuals with sensitive and acne-prone skin should use it with caution as it may irritate sensitive skin and trigger breakouts.

Is titanium dioxide banned in Europe?

Titanium dioxide is set to be banned in Europe as a food additive, with effect from August 2022.

Is titanium dioxide FDA-approved?

Yes, titanium dioxide is FDA-approved as an ingredient in sunscreens.

Key Takeaways

Titanium dioxide is a white inert mineral with no odor and can naturally be found on the earth’s surface.
Particles of titanium dioxide block harmful ultraviolet rays. Therefore, it protects the skin from photoaging, oxidative stress, UV damage, and cancer.
Cosmetic products use titanium dioxide as a brightening, thickening, and opacifying agent.

Image: Dall·E/StyleCraze Design Team

Dive into the world of cosmetic safety in this eye-opening video about why titanium dioxide is avoided in skincare and makeup. Uncover the potential concerns by clicking on the video below!

References

Articles on StyleCraze are backed by verified information from peer-reviewed and academic research papers, reputed organizations, research institutions, and medical associations to ensure accuracy and relevance. Read our editorial policy to learn more.