Titanium dioxide is a white, inorganic compound with the chemical formula TiO2:
Properties
It has a melting point of 3,349 °F (1,843 °C) and a boiling point of 5,382 °F (2,972 °C). It's insoluble in water, but mineral forms can appear black.
Uses
It's used as a pigment in many products, including:
- Foods: As a color additive in bakery products and candy. It's not required to be listed on the ingredients label, but it must appear as "artificial color" or "colored with titanium dioxide".
- Cosmetics: In some sunscreens, cosmetics, and art products.
- Other products: In paints, paper, plastics, ceramics, rubber, and inks.
Exposure
Humans can be exposed to titanium dioxide through inhalation, intravenous injection, dermal contact, or ingestion. Exposure can irritate the eyes, nose, and throat. The International Agency for Research on Cancer has classified titanium dioxide as a Group 2B carcinogen, which means it's a “possible carcinogen to humans”.
Safety
Titanium dioxide is considered safe to use in creams and lotions as a sunscreen, but you should avoid it in aerosolized (spray on) sunscreens. You should also avoid loose powders and blushes that contain titanium dioxide.
