Why is titanium dioxide in sunscreen?

As we near the summer months and travel for vacation, it's common to wonder which sunscreen to bring along. There are honestly too many options to choose from, and we are not mad about it. However, when making a purchase, the most important questions are: "Am I getting the best deal?" "Will this product work for my skin?" "Is this product safe?" If you can answer yes to all three, sit back, relax, and enjoy fun in the sun! This article will go over why titanium dioxide is the main ingredient to look for, not just in sunscreen but also in a large amount of your other skincare and cosmetic products.

What is titanium dioxide?

Titanium dioxide is a natural white mineral sourced from ilmenite ore, and it's a common ingredient in mineral-based makeup. Unlike other ingredients that the skin can absorb, titanium has created an impenetrable barrier that protects against UV rays while not being chemically reactive. Hence, it does not affect your complexion negatively or irritate sensitive skin types like many chemicals would.

Why is titanium dioxide in sunscreen?

Any SPF has significant potential to benefit your skin, both short-term and over time. However, titanium dioxide has a few perks that may make it an ideal choice, depending on your priorities. When used in sunscreen, Titanium Dioxide is ground into microscopic particles, increasing its ability to protect against UVB rays. This particle size also makes it less noticeable on the skin, making it ideal for those with darker skin tones. Both dermatologists and pediatricians recommend sunscreen made with titanium dioxide because they are less likely to irritate sunscreens made with chemical ingredients. Fun fact: Back in 2018, Hawaii passed a bill that banned the sale of sunscreen containing oxybenzone and octinoxate because they found the ingredients contribute to coral bleaching and reef death. Titanium dioxide and zinc oxide are natural, safe, and effective alternatives to chemical sunscreen ingredients, and who wouldn't want to help save our planet too?

Benefits of titanium dioxide in sunscreen

The first example is that the mineral is Non-irritating: Cosmetics and sunscreens that contain titanium dioxide are often formulated with sensitive skin in mind, so they have the potential to soothe the skin as well as address any concerns you have at the same time. In addition, titanium dioxide is a non-irritating mineral and a safe, natural alternative to synthetically derived sunscreens, which can cause inflammation. The next benefit of using this ingredient is that it is Non-comedogenic: If you have acne-prone skin, using non-comedogenic products helps reduce the occurrence of breakouts. Some brands will specify whether a product is non-comedogenic on the packaging, so it's worth looking out. Titanium dioxide is a non-comedogenic ingredient that washes off easily, making it suitable for those concerned about clogged pores, breakouts, and skin sensitivity. Next, titanium dioxide Protects against harmful UV rays: Titanium dioxide is perfect for anyone who wants to prevent UV damage and is used as a physical broad-spectrum UVA and UVB blocker. How could the benefits get better? Here we go, it Prevents premature aging: Ultraviolet radiation causes changes in DNA that lead to premature aging and, sometimes, skin cancer, so wearing a sunscreen that contains titanium dioxide and has an SPF of at least 30 is a great way to protect your skin. It would also be great to see titanium dioxide in every sunscreen, as it can help prevent lines and wrinkles and a loss of elasticity and dark spots. And finally, the last benefit, it is Invisible after application: If you are looking for a sunscreen that won't leave a white cast, it would be worth investing in one that contains titanium dioxide. However, be aware that results may vary due to product formulations. Also, remember that most sunscreens are not transparent on the skin, so you still need to rub the product in to ensure maximum protection.

Side effects of titanium dioxide

Generally, titanium dioxide has no side effects when used topically. It is not absorbed through the skin and is unlikely to cause allergic reactions. Typically, sunscreen does not release particles that may cause harm. As for titanium dioxide in cosmetics, there are a few things to note. Powders with titanium dioxide should not be inhaled, and avoid loose powders, blushes, eyeshadows, or aerosols that contain titanium dioxide. Sticking to safe cream- or lotion-type formulations and opting for products having a micronized formulation will provide skin with a smooth texture and prevent white casts, making such products universally friendly and easier to use. Titanium dioxide is considered safe for all types of skin - including acne-prone skin; however, it is said that sunscreens containing zinc oxide are a safe alternative ingredient for those who have susceptible skin.

The best sunscreen for your skin

Are you looking for some good examples of titanium dioxide sunscreen to try? Look no further; we have made a list of the employee picks!

1. BiON Titanium Dioxide SPF 35 is an award-winning non-greasy sun protection product protecting against harmful UVA and UVB rays. It is formulated with highly micronized particles dispersed evenly on the skin and provides adequate protection from harmful rays without leaving a white cast.
2. PCA Skin Sheer Tint Broad Spectrum SPF 45 is a universally tinted, water-resistant sunscreen that provides sheer protection with an antioxidant boost. Awarded The Skin Cancer Foundation Seal of Recommendation, it provides purely physical broad-spectrum protection. Thanks to Titanium dioxide, Zinc oxide, and Ubiquinone (CoEnzyme Q10), it fights free-radical damage while reflecting, scattering, and absorbing UV rays.
3. HydroPeptide Solar Defense Tinted SPF 30 is a color-adjusting sunscreen that offers flawless coverage and a luminous finish with UVA, UVB, and Infrared protection. Formulated with Acai, Green Tea, Aloe, and Hyaluronic Acid, it replenishes hydration without feeling heavy. In addition, HydroPeptide Solar Defense Tinted SPF 30 helps to protect against free radical damage while diminishing fine lines and wrinkles.
4. Bioelements RayDefense SPF 30 is a moisturizer that contains broad-spectrum UVA/UVB SPF 30. It helps guard your skin against free radical damage caused by the sun's rays. This sunscreen may also prevent your skin from aging, protecting it from getting wrinkles and facial lines caused by the sun.
5. Jan Marini Marini Physical Protectant Tinted SPF 45 (For All Skin Types)- The newest product to join Jan Marini's superior sun protection line utilizing purely physical filters for broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection to decrease the risk of premature skin aging. This weightless sunscreen features a universal tint and microscopic sponges for additional oil control with a sheer, matte finish. Green tea extract and alpha-bisabolol provide enhanced free radical protection while soothing and calming the skin from stress caused by UV and heat.