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30.08.2020 - Cosmetics

SCCSOpiniononTitaniumDioxideinCosmeticProducts

The Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) published an opinion on titanium dioxide (TiO2) in cosmetic products on August 7, 2020.

Due to the current data situation and the possible classification of titanium dioxide according to the CLP Regulation as a category 2 carcinogen (inhalation), the SCCS has concluded that the use of pigmented titanium dioxide at a maximum concentration of 25% in a typical hair styling aerosol spray product is not safe for general consumers or hairdressers. According to the SCCS, a maximum concentration of pigmented TiO2 in a typical hair styling aerosol spray product of up to 1.64% for general consumers or 1.0% for hairdressers does not pose a risk. According to the safety assessment, the use of up to 25% TiO2 in facial makeup is considered safe for consumers.

It should be noted that these conclusions are based on the safety assessment of TiO2 in connection with a possible classification as a category 2 carcinogen (by inhalation). This means that the conclusions drawn in this opinion apply to the use of pigmented TiO2 in a cosmetic product that may lead to consumer exposure via the inhalation route (i.e., aerosol, spray, and powder form products). Therefore, the opinion does not apply to such pearlescent pigments due to the composite nature of such materials, of which TiO2 is only a minor component.

The opinion is available at ec.europa.eu