Titanium dioxide in cosmetics: what is it, how to identify it and when does it really matter?

The titanium dioxide in cosmetics is one of the most questionable ingredients among those seeking more natural and conscious products. Present in makeup, sunscreens, toothpastes and other personal care products, its use has been the subject of debate in recent years.

Is titanium dioxide dangerous?
Should it always be avoided?
Does it matter how it is used?

As with many cosmetic ingredients, the key is not fear, but understanding the context, the form and type of product.

What is titanium dioxide in cosmetics?

Titanium dioxide is a mineral ingredient used mainly for its ability to:

• Add white color and opacity

• Reflecting light

• Protect against UV radiation

It has been used in cosmetics for decades and it is authorized by European regulations, provided that certain conditions of use are respected.

How to identify titanium dioxide in INCI

One of the advantages of this ingredient is that it does not hide under ambiguous names.

In the list of ingredients (INCI) it may appear as:

• Titanium Dioxide

• CI 77891

If you encounter any of these names, the product contains titanium dioxide.

CI 77891: what it really means

CI 77891 is simply the code that identifies titanium dioxide as a colorant in the international cosmetic nomenclature.

Its presence does not automatically indicate a problem, but the function it fulfills within the product:

• Pigment

• Opacifier

• Physical UV filter

Where titanium dioxide is used

Titanium dioxide can be found in:

• Mineral sunscreens

• Make-up (foundations, powders, shadows)

• Creams with color

• Toothpaste

• Solid deodorants

• Products requiring a white or opaque finish

Not all applications involve the same level of exposure, and this is key to understanding when it may be relevant.

The key difference: nano and non-nano titanium dioxide

This is the most important point.

Non-nano titanium dioxide

• Larger particles

• Do not penetrate the skin

• Traditional use in cosmetics

• Considered safe in topical products

Nano titanium dioxide

• Extremely small particles

• Different behavior

• More scientific debate

In the European Union, if titanium dioxide is nano, it must be indicated in the INCI:

• Titanium Dioxide (nano)

Is titanium dioxide dangerous in cosmetics?

Topical use (healthy skin)

• Not proven to penetrate the skin

• Authorized in European cosmetics

• Especially safe in non-nano form

Main risk: inhalation

The main focus of scientific attention is on inhalation of fine particles, especially in:

• Loose powder

• Aerosols

• Sprays

• Highly volatile powder makeup

For this reason, many brands are aware of avoid use in products that can be inhaled.

What European regulations say

• Regulation: Regulation (EC) 1223/2009

• Obligation to indicate the nano form

• Safety assessment by product type

• Restrictions especially related to inhalation

An ingredient may be safe in a cream and not recommended in a spray.

How to decide whether to avoid it or not

Instead of classifying ingredients as "good" or "bad", it is more useful to ask these questions:

• Is it a powder or aerosol product?

• Does it indicate nano shape?

• Will I use it every day?

• Are there alternatives that are a better fit for me?

Choosing conscious cosmetics means understanding, not eliminating without criteria.