European Commission opinion on titanium dioxide (nano) in cosmetics
The European Commission’s Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has published its opinion on titanium dioxide (nano form) coated with cetyl phosphate, manganese dioxide or triethoxycaprylylsilane used as a UV-filter in dermally applied cosmetics.
The SCCS opinion states that the three TiO2 nanomaterials (A, B, C), coated with either cetyl phosphate, manganese dioxide or triethoxycaprylylsilane, can be considered safe for use in cosmetic products applied on healthy, intact or sunburnt skin. This does not apply to applications that might lead to lung exposure of the TiO2 nanoparticles through inhalation such as powders or sprayable products.
The opinion is based on currently available scientific evidence which shows an overall lack of absorption of TiO2 nanoparticles through the skin. If any new evidence emerges to show that TiO2 nanoparticles used in sunscreen can penetrate healthy, compromised, or damaged skin, the SCCS may consider revising its assessment.
SCCS (Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety), Opinion on titanium dioxide (nano form), 28 March 2018 (SCCS/1580/16)
