Titanium Dioxide For Skin-Is Titanium Dioxide A Carcinogen

Titanium dioxide (TiO2) is a widely used white pigment found in many products, including paints, coatings, plastics, paper, and cosmetics. It is also used in food as a colorant (E171).

The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has classified titanium dioxide as a Group 2B carcinogen, which means it is “possibly carcinogenic to humans.” This classification is based on limited evidence of carcinogenicity in humans and sufficient evidence in experimental animals for the substance being a carcinogen.

The primary concern is inhalation exposure to titanium dioxide dust, particularly in occupational settings where workers may inhale fine particles. Inhalation of these particles has been associated with an increased risk of lung cancer in some studies. However, the general population’s exposure to titanium dioxide from consumer products is considered much lower and not likely to pose a significant cancer risk.

It’s important to note that the risk of titanium dioxide is associated with its inhalation in powder form and not with its use in products like sunscreen lotions or foods, where it is typically not in a form that can be inhaled. The safety of titanium dioxide in such products is still under study, and regulatory agencies continue to monitor and assess the potential risks.