This article is going to share with you facts about titanium dioxide ci 77891 in cosmetics. Titanium dioxide is one of the cosmetic industry’s best-kept secrets – playing a central role in the development of products for sensitive skin.

Mineral make-up is big business in the cosmetics sector, with more and more wearers looking at the benefits pure, earth-derived ingredients can offer.
 
This trend has seen titanium dioxide (TiO2) – in both its pigment and non-pigment forms – take centre stage in beauty halls the world over. But actually, its use was established decades ago, particularly in decorative cosmetics and suncare products suitable for sensitive skin.
 
What makes TiO2 so attractive?
 
TiO2, or CI 77891 as it is known in this market, is one of the cosmetic industry’s best-kept secrets, having been used by beauty brands and skincare manufacturers alike for decades.

In that time, it has been used to enhance on-trend colours and formulations in a number of ways:

1. Colour – Use of pigment form TiO2 with other colours gives intensity and brightness to decorative cosmetics, as well as allowing manufacturers to create many different shades to suit all skin types in foundations and lipsticks.

2. Light – TiO2 helps soak up oils in the skin, while lending it an opacity that reduces any unwanted shine – a key selling point for any matte-based cosmetic.

3. UV – Non-pigment form TiO2 is a key ingredient in sun care products, absorbing and scattering both UVA and UVB rays, which prevents sun burn and premature ageing. This can be harnessed in cosmetics too, giving UV-protection properties to creams, foundations and lipsticks.

4. Texture – In its non-pigment form, TiO2 particles become transparent, helping to create much smoother and sheer formulations with a better spreadability. Its opaque qualities are also crucial to formulations that conceal blemishes.

5. Staying power – As an insoluble mineral, non-pigment form TiO2 is prized for its long-lasting and waterproof properties, which is important for suncare products in particular.

Products containing TiO2

Due to its versatility and natural benefits, titanium dioxide is a favourite with cosmetics manufacturers. In the last five years alone, TiO2 has featured in more than 20,000 cosmetics launches. It can be found in virtually any product on the market – including:

1. liquid and powder-based foundations

2. bronzers

3. blushers

4. eye shadows

5. mascaras

6. lipsticks

7. suncare products

How it works with sensitive skin

Although TiO2 is a mainstream staple, it is also one of the most important ingredients for beauty brands catering for people with sensitive skin. The reason for this is straightforward: TiO2 is inert – which means it will not react with other ingredients. This allows it to be used in products applied to the most sensitive areas of the body, including around the eyes, eyelids and mouth, with a greatly reduced risk of allergic reactions.

Are there any viable alternatives?

As TiO2 is so well tolerated by the skin, manufacturers rarely look for any substitute. Dr. Chris Flower, Chartered Biologist and toxicologist and Director-General of the Cosmetics, Toiletries & Perfumery Association points out that any possible alternative is unlikely to be a simple ‘drop in’ and may differ in many more respects. He adds: “Due to the versatility of TiO2 and its wide range of uses in many different types of cosmetic product, there is no credible like-for-like alternative to titanium dioxide.”

Concerns about the use of TiO2 in cosmetics

Dr. Flower also states: “TiO2 has been used in cosmetics for many years and has been repeatedly assessed and confirmed to be safe by independent global safety authorities. The European Commission’s scientific experts re-confirmed the safety of nano titanium dioxide most recently in November 2017, noting that dermal absorption – i.e. skin penetration was minimal.”

Today, pigment form TiO2 is certified in the USA by the Food and Drug Administration (21 CFR 73.2575) and in the EU as colour additive, E171; while non-pigment form TiO2 is certified for safe use in the USA by the United States Pharmacopeia and in the EU (Annex VI, Cosmetics Regulation 1223/2009).

Restricting the use of TiO2

Restricting or limiting the use of TiO2 in cosmetic products would have a clear, negative impact on consumers who rely on its inclusion in products for sensitive skin. Not only could they be presented with less choice, but the use of an alternative ingredient could potentially increase the risk of allergic reactions.

The European cosmetics industry is worth more than €77 billion and represents the world’s largest market. Any moves to restrict the use of TiO2 would cause widespread disruption for businesses – limiting the range of ingredients at their disposal, driving up the cost of R&D and ultimately, compromising the quality of the formulations and reputation should any adverse reactions occur.

Verified Suppliers of titanium dioxide in OKCHEM

Hangzhou Ruijiang Chemical Co., Ltd
HANGZHOU PRATIQUE PERFORMANCE MATERIAL SCIENCE CO.,LTD
Guangxi Bluestar Dahua Chemical Co., Ltd.

Source: Titanium Dioxide Manufacturers Association (TDMA)