Indications
Titanium Dioxide is a white mineral used in sunscreens to protect the skin from sunburn and sun damage. It is also widely used as a white colouring and opacifying (non see-through) agent in tablets, capsule shells, creams, toothpaste and cosmetics. In sunscreens it is suitable for sensitive skin and is often used in products for children.
How It Works
Titanium Dioxide is a physical (mineral) sunscreen. Its tiny particles sit on the surface of the skin and reflect, scatter and absorb ultraviolet light, mainly UVB and short-wave UVA, before it can reach and damage skin cells. In tablets and creams it simply gives a white colour and protects light-sensitive ingredients; it has no medicinal action there.
Dosage and Administration
For sunscreens: apply generously and evenly to all exposed skin about 15 minutes before sun exposure and reapply at least every 2 hours, and after swimming, sweating or towel drying. Follow the directions on the product label. For babies under 6 months, ask a doctor and keep them out of direct sun. When present in tablets or capsules, no separate dose applies.
Interactions
No known interactions with other medicines. Some medicines, such as Doxycycline, Hydrochlorothiazide and some acne treatments, increase sun sensitivity, so careful sun protection is especially important for people taking them.
Contraindications
- Known allergy to any ingredient of the product (true allergy to Titanium Dioxide itself is very rare).
- Do not apply sunscreen to broken or infected skin.
Side Effects
Titanium Dioxide is very well tolerated. Sunscreens containing it may leave a white tint on the skin and, rarely, cause dryness, mild irritation or blocked pores. Reactions are more often due to other ingredients such as fragrance or preservatives.
Stop use and get urgent medical help if you develop a widespread rash, swelling of the face, lips or eyes, or difficulty breathing.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Titanium Dioxide is not meaningfully absorbed through healthy skin and mineral sunscreens are considered a suitable choice during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Avoid applying it to the nipple area just before breastfeeding.
Precautions and Warnings
- For external use when used as a sunscreen. Avoid contact with the eyes.
- Avoid breathing in sprays or loose powders containing Titanium Dioxide; prefer creams and lotions, especially for children.
- Sunscreen is only one part of sun protection; also use shade, a hat and protective clothing.
- Check the label for SPF and broad-spectrum protection.
Overdose
Overdose is not expected with use on the skin. If a large amount of sunscreen is swallowed, rinse the mouth and contact a doctor or poison centre for advice.
Therapeutic Class
Physical (mineral) sunscreen agent; pharmaceutical colouring and opacifying agent.
Storage
Store below 30°C, away from direct sunlight and heat, with the cap tightly closed, out of the reach of children.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.