Titanium dioxide (TiO2) is among the most controversial naturally occurring minerals in the world of personal care and cosmetic products.
This compound is common in products such as sunscreen, loose and pressed powders, whitening agents, and UV filters. Titanium dioxide is also present in many creams and lotions.
Titanium dioxide is white in color, opaque, and can easily refract light, making it an ingredient of choice as an opacifier, brightener, and pigment.
In spite of its widespread use, titanium dioxide presents several health concerns. Consumers are advised to use titanium dioxide free makeup.
Read on to learn about the health concerns and our recommendations for the best titanium dioxide free makeup brands.
Titanium Dioxide Health Concerns
Titanium dioxide can be harmful when inhaled and transferred directly to the lungs. This means that this mineral presents a low risk when used in sunscreens and moisturizing lotions and creams.
The International Agency for Research on Cancer considers titanium dioxide carcinogenic in its inhalable form. This means inhaling this mineral can increase a person’s risk for lung cancer.
For titanium dioxide to be inhalable, its particles must be small enough to reach the alveoli in the lungs. It is in these finger-like structures where the exchange of oxygen occurs.
Research findings show that nanoized titanium dioxide is inhalable in some mammals including humans. These findings further show that inhalation of extremely small particles of titanium dioxide can be more dangerous than inhaling larger particles.
Tips For Approaching Titanium Dioxide In Products
Titanium dioxide plays an important role in cosmetic products, especially in sunscreens.
What you should be avoiding is titanium dioxide in its inhalable form. This means avoiding the use of products such as blushes, loose powders, and pressed powders that contain titanium dioxide.
Avoid spray on or aerosolized sunscreens. Otherwise, creams and lotions containing titanium dioxide are a safe choice if you are looking for moisturizers with SPF.
Look for sunscreens that say non-nano on the label. Opt for these ones and if the label does not specify this, get in touch with the manufacturer and inquire about the size of the titanium dioxide particles in the product.
The Best Titanium Dioxide Free Makeup
Quite a number of brands are beginning to offer titanium free makeup including powders and foundations. Below we recommend some of the best titanium dioxide free makeup brands on the market today. Try any of their makeup products and see how they work out for you.
The Jane Iredale brand has made a name for itself for providing clean, cruelty-free and mineral-based cosmetics that anyone, regardless of the condition of their skin, can use successfully.
In addition to offering titanium-dioxide free makeup, Jane Iredale’s line of cosmetic products does not contain oil to clog skin pores or talc, which tends to dry the skin.
Each product under this brand is free of alcohol, perfume, artificial dyes, and additives. The makeup foundations offer great coverage ideal for those with acne, rosacea and other stubborn skin conditions.
Jane Iredale was among the first brands to offer mineral makeup and has, over the years continued to deliver cosmetics that nourish, sooth, and protect the skin using natural ingredients.
The best part is that this makeup brand offers cosmetics in a wide range of colors to meet different needs. The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends several of Jane Iredale’s makeup products including Glow Time, PurePressed Based, and Dream Tint among others. Each of these products offers SPF 15 and higher, guaranteeing safe, water-resistant sun protection.
The Jane Iredale Liquid Minerals Foundation is among the brand’s most popular titanium dioxide free makeup. In particular, the foundation does not contain SPF but delivers a natural, dewy sheer to medium coverage.
The Liquid Minerals is specially formulated for sensitive skin and works to minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, minimizes pores, calms inflammation and evens out skin tone.
The foundation is cruelty-free and contains hyaluronic acid to keep the skin hydrated. The mineral pigment is suspended in a high-quality serum and is available in 13 cool, warm, and neutral shades.
Pur Minerals prides itself on being an authority in the skin complexion industry. As the name suggests, this mineral makeup brand delivers high safe, nourishing, and high-performing cosmetics to meet the various skin needs.
In addition to being committed to delivering products that improve the appearance of the skin, Pur Mineral products are also easy to use and are suitable for various skin types, tones, and for women of all ages.
The products are formulated in the USA under strict cruelty-free and environmentally friendly standards. Each of Pur Mineral’s products is titanium dioxide free.
Among the best-selling Pur Minerals makeup is the 4-in-1 pressed mineral powder foundation. This works as a powder, foundation, concealer, and sunscreen all in one package.
This foundation not only improves the skin but also helps to correct all sorts of skin problems. This product is vegan, gluten-free, and does not contain parabens.
The 4-in-1 pressed mineral powder is available in 11 different shades suitable for those with pale skin and those with a medium tan. Pur Minerals fans love this particular foundation because it goes on easily and delivers a natural matte finish.
Summary
Titanium dioxide plays an important role in many cosmetics and skin care products. This naturally occurring mineral is generally safe and even desirable in products such as creams and lotions.
However, care should be taken not to inhale titanium dioxide particles as this can increase the risk of lung cancer. Powders and foundations are especially prone to containing titanium dioxide.
To be safe, opt for titanium dioxide-free makeup, more so if you have sensitive skin and are looking for adequate coverage.