TITANIUM DIOXIDE IN SUNCARE: Myth or Real Danger?
Titanium dioxide (CI77891) is at the heart of many discussions on clean beauty today .
A controversial additive in food, singled out in certain cosmetic powders, it sometimes arouses suspicion...However, in mineral sun cosmetics, it remains widely used and recognized as safe, provided that strict criteria are met.
At HANLOÉ, we tell you things clearly. Here's what you really need to know about titanium dioxide in natural sunscreens.
What is titanium dioxide (CI 77891)?
Titanium dioxide is a naturally occurring mineral used as:
- Physical solar filter , to reflect UV rays.
- White pigment , to opacify or adjust the shade of a product
It is an inert, photo-active ingredient that is effective in protecting the skin from UVA and UVB rays. It is found in sunscreens, foundations, tinted creams, sticks, etc.
Why is it sometimes controversial?
The debate surrounding titanium dioxide stems from three different uses :
| Use | Identified risks | Status |
| Food (E171) | Possible genotoxicity | Banned in Europe |
| Aerosol or loose powder (inhalation) | Potential carcinogenic risk through the respiratory tract | Heavily framed |
| Skin application (cosmetic) | No risk identified if non-nano | Authorized, including organic |
In topical, non-nano cosmetics, CI77891 is authorized by the EU, Ecocert, COSMOS and all regulatory authorities .
Why does HANLOÉ use it transparently?
In our sun care products, we use non-nano titanium dioxide, only in dispersed form in sticks, never in loose powder or spray form. This means:
- No skin penetration
- No risk of inhalation
- No identified health impact according to current scientific standards
This choice allows us to formulate natural, effective sunscreens , without chemical filters , while guaranteeing a pleasant cosmetic result (without white film, with good diffusion of light).
Comparison with the competition: where does HANLOÉ stand?
Many clean brands, even very strict ones, also use CI77891:
- This filter is also used by several well-known certified organic brands.
- We go further by combining titanium dioxide with premium plant-based active ingredients: organic aloe vera, hyaluronic acid, jojoba oil, raspberry and sea buckthorn extracts, for a real skin care and comfort dimension.
Our commitment: transparency, efficiency, respect for the skin
At HANLOÉ, each ingredient is selected with care and integrity. The titanium dioxide we use meets the strictest standards and is part of a comprehensive approach to:
- 100% natural formulation
- Respect for sensitive skin
- Non-controversial mineral protection
- ECOCERT COSMOS & Vegan certification
In summary: should we be afraid of titanium dioxide?
NO, not in well-formulated natural sunscreens.
YES to vigilance , but also to objective information.
At HANLOÉ, we have chosen to protect the skin without compromise , with healthy, effective and transparent formulas , respecting the highest clean standards.
