Titanium Oxide Used In Sunscreen

Numerous sunscreens contain titanium oxide, or more commonly known as titanium dioxide, as a main ingredient. The percentages of inclusion vary, yet it is still the active ingredient. Titanium dioxide has been deemed safe and highly stable under most conditions.

This mineral is a physical sun blocking agent and works by reflecting and absorbing ultraviolet light. It is effective at blocking both UVA and UVB rays. However, when compared with zinc oxide, titanium dioxide has been found to be less effective.

There is a long history of safe use as a sunscreen and ingredient in cosmetics. As with zinc oxide, titanium dioxide is known to leave an unsightly white residue when applied. Conversely, titanium dioxide has also been formulated into nanoparticles. These particles have different optical properties and produce less white residue to the skin when applied. The safety of these particles is still controversial. The fear is that the nanoparticles may promote the generation of free radicals and increase the risk of mutations.

One UCLA study on the effect of titanium dioxide nanoparticles when administered to mice in water showed to cause genetic damage including mutations and DNA breaks. This effect may not be plausible in sunscreen used on humans if the chemical does not penetrate the outer layer of skin. In addition, manufacturers generally cover these particles with special coating. It is not known whether the titanium dioxide contained in sunscreen has the ability to penetrate the top layer of skin. Studies are still being done to prove or disprove the hypothesis. In the year 2002, the United States FDA deemed titanium dioxide a safe substance for the public. It is safe for ingestion as well as topical use.

Titanium dioxide, in many ways, is similar to that of zinc oxide in blocking the harmful radiation of the sun. In many commercial sunscreens, it is used in combination with zinc oxide. Together these two minerals make for a highly effective sunscreen.