DIOXYDE DE TITANE DANS LES SOINS SOLAIRES : mythe ou vrai danger ?

Titanium Dioxide: Myth or Real Danger?

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Titanium dioxide (CI 77891): myth, risks and realities in cosmetics

Clarity, science, and transparency: everything you need to know to make confident decisions—without alarmism.

Reading time: 6–8 min Updated: Oct. 2025
Titanium dioxide — expert analysis Atelier Hanloé

Titanium dioxide is a widely used mineral, used for decades in cosmetics for its whiteness, coverage, and contribution to sun protection . Between preconceived notions and unfounded fears, here is a clear and honest explanation.

1. What is titanium dioxide?

Titanium dioxide (CI 77891) is an inorganic mineral that reflects and diffuses light. In cosmetics, it is used:

  • as a white pigment for opacity and uniformity;
  • as a physical filter participating in the reflection of UV according to the formula.
Remember — Safety depends on shape , particle size , and dispersion in the formula.
Mineral pigment titanium dioxide
Mineral pigment: whiteness, reflection, luminosity.

2. Where is the debate?

What we recognize in him

  • Evens out the light and tint of formulas.
  • Contributes to photoprotection when integrated into a filtering system.
  • Alternative often well tolerated by sensitive skin.

What is being debated

  • Confusion between food use and cosmetic use .
  • Questions about nanoparticles according to the route of exposure.
  • Inhalation : risk concerned by powders, not by creams/emulsions.

The Hanloé point. Distinguishing rumor from regulated reality. Our formulas scrupulously comply with European standards, with strict requirements for material quality and skin tolerance.

Transparency & education — our ongoing commitments.

3. The framework of use in cosmetics

In cosmetics, titanium dioxide is used within the limits and conditions set by regulations (product category, concentration, labeling, route of exposure). The requirements include:

  • the quality of the grade (purity, coating, particle profile);
  • safety of use according to the route of exposure;
  • the toxicological evaluation of the finished product.

Note: Status and restrictions may vary by country and category (food ≠ cosmetic).

4. Our position & wording

Quality controlled

We select highly controlled grades, suitable for cosmetic use and skin tolerance.

Aesthetics & comfort

Optimized dispersion to limit the white effect and guarantee fine, elegant and superimposable textures.

Transparency

Clear labeling (CI 77891) and education for informed purchasing decisions.

Continuous improvement

Regulatory monitoring and testing of mineral alternatives while respecting our requirement for efficiency and safety.

5. Advice on responsible use

  • Choose according to your skin : for sensitive skin, choose gentle bases and fine textures.
  • Finish : on matte/dark skin, prefer advanced dispersions or tinted versions.
  • Sunscreens : Reapply in case of prolonged direct exposure.

6. Alternatives & transparency

Combinations with other minerals/pigments can be chosen depending on the objective (comfort, rendering, tolerance). The main thing: overall performance of the finished product, safety and compliance .

Hanloé Commitment — We explain our choices and develop them with you.

FAQ — Your Frequently Asked Questions

Is titanium dioxide dangerous in cosmetics?

When used in a regulated setting and depending on the route of cutaneous application, it has a favorable safety profile . Inhalation concerns relate to powders , not creams.

Why do some formulas whiten?

The pigment strongly reflects light. Optimized dispersion and modern textures reduce this effect.

Do you use “nano” grades?

We favor grades strictly adapted to the intended cosmetic use and compliant with the European framework.

Enlightened protection, assumed beauty

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