Authority source
Safety basis: FDA / EU SCCS
FDA assessment, EU SCCS opinion, IARC classification
Titanium Dioxide
TiO2CI 77891
UV Filter, Pigment, Opacifier
Titanium dioxide is a mineral that helps protect your skin from the sun's harmful rays. It also makes products look white and opaque.
What it is
Titanium dioxide is a naturally occurring mineral used as a white pigment and a physical UV filter in sunscreens.
Found in
sunscreens, cosmetics (foundations, powders), paints, food coloring, pharmaceuticals
The concern
The primary concern is the potential inhalation risk of ultrafine or nanoparticle forms, especially in powder products, which IARC classifies as possibly carcinogenic to humans (Group 2B) when inhaled.
Legal status
Approved as a UV filter and colorant in the US (FDA) and EU; the EU has restricted its use as a food additive (E171) and classified it as a suspected carcinogen by inhalation in powder form.
Context-dependent
Its safety depends on the form and route of exposure; it is generally considered safe for topical use but inhalation of fine particles is a concern.
Evidence & sources
Article / explainer
Impact of Surface Coatings on the Photocatalytic Activity and Cytotoxicity of Titanium Dioxide Nanoparticles in Human Keratinocytes: Implications for Sunscreen Safety.
PubMed study
PubMed • Human keratinocyte study focused on titanium dioxide nanoparticle coatings and sunscreen safety context.
Read sourceCommon questions answered
Common questions about titanium dioxide
Mineral Filter Questions
- Why is titanium dioxide used in sunscreen?
- Titanium dioxide is a mineral UV filter that helps scatter and absorb UV radiation, especially in sunscreen products.
- What does nano vs non-nano mean?
- Nano and non-nano refer to particle size. Smaller particles can affect texture, transparency, and how the ingredient is evaluated in certain product formats.
- Does powder makeup raise different questions than lotion?
- Yes. Powders can raise different exposure questions because loose particles may be inhaled, while lotions are mainly applied to the skin.
These answers provide plain-English context. Safety guidance comes from the authority and research sources above.
Related ingredient guides
Compare this ingredient with related ingredients and common alternatives.
Zinc Oxide
A mineral UV filter commonly compared with titanium dioxide.
Oxybenzone
A chemical UV filter often contrasted with mineral filters.
Octinoxate
Another sunscreen filter checked in similar product labels.
Avobenzone
Another sunscreen filter commonly compared in the same UV-protection conversations.
Octocrylene
Another sunscreen filter commonly compared in the same UV-protection conversations.
Homosalate
Another sunscreen filter commonly compared in the same UV-protection conversations.
Last updated: July 6, 2026