Is Titanium Dioxide Safe In Makeup-A Substance Containing Titanium Dioxide
Titanium dioxide, also known as titania, is a white, powdery substance with the chemical formula TiO2. It is widely used as a pigment in a variety of products due to its excellent opacity and brightness. Here are some common products and substances that contain titanium dioxide:
1. Paints and Coatings: Titanium dioxide is a primary ingredient in many paints and coatings, providing whiteness and opacity.
2. Plastics: It is used as a pigment in the production of many plastic products, giving them a white color or serving as a UV stabilizer to prevent degradation from sunlight.
3. Printing Inks: In the printing industry, titanium dioxide is used to enhance the opacity and brightness of inks.
4. Cosmetics: It is found in many cosmetic products, including sunscreen, where it acts as a UV filter, as well as in powders, foundations, and other makeup products for its whitening and opacity properties.
5. Foods: Titanium dioxide is used as a food additive with the E number E171 to give a white color to foods and medications.
6. Paper: It is used in paper manufacturing to increase opacity and brightness, making the paper more suitable for printing.
7. Ceramics and Glass: Titanium dioxide can be found in ceramic glazes and glass products to improve clarity and durability.
8. Adhesives and Sealants: It is used in these products to enhance opacity and strength.
When purchasing a product that contains titanium dioxide, it’s important to consider the grade of the titanium dioxide used, as different grades are optimized for different applications. For example, the grade used in food products must meet specific purity standards, while the grade used in industrial applications may not need to be as pure.