Titanium Dioxide: Common In Sunscreen and Makeup—But Is It Safe?

Curious about what’s in your everyday products? Decoding labels isn’t always easy, so we’re breaking it down—spotlighting ingredients, what they do, and whether they’re friend or foe. I’ll be your guide, with research-backed insights from the Haskill Creek team. Got an ingredient you’re wondering about? Email us at Hello@haskillcreek, and I’ll dig into it!

Master Ingredient List

What is Titanium Dioxide?

Titanium Dioxide (TiO₂) is a naturally occurring, white and odorless mineral used in skincare and cosmetics for two main purposes:

• As a UV filter in mineral sunscreens

• As a white pigment or brightener in makeup and toothpaste

You’ll most commonly see it labeled as either:

• Titanium Dioxide

• CI 77891 (especially in color cosmetics)

Why It’s Used:

• Sun Protection: It acts as a physical sunscreen, sitting on the skin and reflecting UVA/UVB rays. It’s one of just a few SPF ingredients approved by the FDA for broad-spectrum protection. (The other is Zinc Oxide)

• Brightening + Coverage: In makeup, it helps achieve that smooth, even-toned finish. It also enhances opacity and vibrancy in foundations and powders.

It’s one of the safer options for sun protection—especially for sensitive skin or children. But we recommend reading the label and being aware of the product format.

Why Safe with Caution?

Titanium Dioxide is not inherently toxic, but concerns arise around inhalation and particle size:

👍 Topical Use (Creams & Pressed Powders):

• In creams, lotions, sunscreens, or pressed powders, it’s considered safe.

• Pressed formats significantly reduce airborne particles, and most clean brands use non-nano Titanium Dioxide, which doesn’t absorb into the bloodstream and stays on the skin’s surface.

🛑Loose Powders & Sprays (Inhalation Risk):

• When inhaled, especially in its nano-particle form, it’s classified as a possible carcinogen by the European Chemicals Agency.

• This is mainly a concern in loose mineral makeup, setting powders, or aerosolized products that can be breathed in during application.

Haskill’s Position

Even brands on trusted clean platforms like Beauty Heroes or Credo use Titanium Dioxide in some pressed blushes and powders. That’s because it’s effective, stable, and offers light protection—and because the format matters.

If you love a powder product that contains Titanium Dioxide, choose a pressed compact over loose powder, and apply it with care to avoid dust inhalation.

Companion ingredient in mineral sunscreen: Zinc Oxide

Master Ingredient List