Why is titanium dioxide used in cosmetics?
Titandioxide (TIO₂) has been a common ingredient in the cosmetics industry for decades. It can be found in a variety of products, including sunscreen, make-up, toothpaste and skin care products. But in recent years, titanium dioxide cosmetics is increasingly the focus of critical arguments, especially with regard to possible Health risks. Why is this controversial ingredient still used?
1. Functional properties of titanium dioxide
The main reason for the use of titanium dioxide in cosmetics lies in its extraordinary properties. It is a strong pigment that offers high opacity and at the same time is very stable. This combination makes it ideal for products such as foundation or powder that should produce even colors and keep it for a long time. In cosmetics in particular, titanium dioxide finds a variety of applications. In addition, titanium dioxide as a UV filter offers protection against harmful UV rays. It is particularly used in physical sunscreens, since unlike chemical UV filters, it does not appear to the skin and looks immediately after applying.
2. Regulatory framework and uncertainties
Despite the existing concerns, titanium dioxide remains approved as a cosmetic ingredient in many countries, including the EU. The European chemical agency (ECHA) classified titanium dioxide in 2020 as possibly carcinogenic, but only in the event of inhalation. In cosmetic products such as creams that are applied to the skin, the risk is considered low. Nevertheless, this classification remains a warning signal that triggers concerns with many consumers and scientists. The use of titanium dioxide in cosmetics therefore remains a controversial topic.
3. Missing equivalent alternatives
Another reason why titanium dioxide in cosmetics continues to be used is the lack of equivalent alternatives. The challenge is to find a pigment that has the same effectiveness and stability as titanium dioxide without recovering health risks. Chemical alternatives often have their own disadvantages, be it in terms of skin irritation or a lower protective effect against UV radiation. The switch to new ingredients would also cause extensive tests and high costs, which deteriorates many manufacturers. The cosmetics industry often lacks equivalent alternatives to titanium dioxide.
4. Cost factor and industrial interests
In addition to functionality, the economic aspect also plays a role. Titandioxide is an inexpensive ingredient that is easy to process in production. For many cosmetics companies, this means a significant competitive advantage. A complete waiver of titanium dioxide could significantly increase the production costs, which would ultimately affect the prices for end consumers. There are also interests of industrial representatives who have strong lobbies and often slow down changes. In cosmetics in particular, titanium dioxide is an important cost factor.
5. Consumer deception and marketing strategies
Although consumer consciousness grows for the ingredients in cosmetics, the labeling of titanium dioxide often remains opaque. Cosmetics manufacturers often advertise their products with keywords such as “natural” or “without chemical filters”, even if the titanium dioxide is contained, which is marketed as a “naturally occurring mineral”, but is quite chemical processes in its processed form. These marketing strategies can create a wrong feeling of security for consumers. The cosmetics industry therefore often uses the use of titanium dioxide as positive.
6. Conclusion: a balancing act between benefits and risk
The further use of titanium dioxide in cosmetics shows the dilemma of the industry: on the one hand, its useful properties and the lack of alternatives, on the other hand, are the growing Causes regarding possible health risks. As long as there are no safe and equally effective alternatives, titanium dioxide will probably continue to play a role in cosmetics. However, consumers should be sensitized to critically question the ingredients of their cosmetic products and, if necessary, choose products without titanium dioxide, especially if they use inhable forms such as sprays.
In the end, the decision remains between functionality, security and ethical considerations, whereby the cosmetics industry is increasingly under pressure to find healthier and more environmentally friendly alternatives.