European Commission Requests SCCS Opinion on Titanium Dioxide in Cosmetics

NIA Staff
1 min read

Summary

  • Titanium dioxide, a staple UV filter and whitening agent in sunscreens and cosmetics, is facing a formal EU safety review after carcinogen and genotoxicity concerns emerged in other regulatory contexts.

  • The SCCS previously could not rule out genotoxicity for most TiO2 grades in oral cosmetics, putting products like toothpaste squarely in the crosshairs.

  • Industry submitted new data in June 2025, triggering the 12-month assessment that could result in concentration limits or broader restrictions.

The European Commission has asked the Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) to evaluate the safety of titanium dioxide, both nano and non-nano forms, in cosmetic products.

Titanium dioxide serves as a white pigment and UV filter in sunscreens and cosmetics due to its high refractive index and UV absorption properties. The compound is authorized under EU Cosmetics Regulation as both a colorant and UV filter. TiO₂ now faces scrutiny after its CLP classification as a Category 2 carcinogen by inhalation and EFSA's 2021 concerns about genotoxicity in food applications.

The SCCS previously found that genotoxicity could not be excluded for most TiO₂ grades in oral cosmetics, with exceptions for specific research materials RM09 and RM11. The Commission seeks assessment for oral-care applications after industry submitted additional data in June 2025. The 12-month mandate, approved September 14, 2025, requires SCCS to determine safety, propose concentration limits if necessary, and identify additional scientific concerns.

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