Ingredient dictionary

Titanium Dioxide

Also listed as: CI 77891

Titanium dioxide is a white mineral powder that scatters ultraviolet light, serving mainly as a mineral UV filter while also adding opacity and whiteness. It is on the label of 169 products in our library. Checked against our library November 6, 2026.

What Titanium Dioxide does

Filters ultraviolet light in sunscreens
Adds opacity and whiteness to formulas
Gives makeup coverage and a bright tone

Titanium dioxide is a naturally occurring mineral that is mined from ores and refined into a fine white powder. Cosmetic grades are often coated with thin layers of materials such as silica or alumina, which help the powder spread and blend smoothly on skin.

Formulators use it because it scatters and reflects ultraviolet light, which is why it appears in many sunscreens. In makeup and cleansers, it adds opacity and a bright white tone. Finer particles look more sheer than larger ones, so makers pick the particle size to balance coverage with a clear finish. The powder feels dry and light on the skin.

Good for

Well suited to sunscreens and makeup that need UV protection or an opaque, even-looking finish.

Frequently asked questions

Is titanium dioxide safe in skincare?

Titanium dioxide is widely used and generally well tolerated on skin. It mostly stays on the outer layer of the skin rather than soaking in. If you have sensitive skin, a patch test on a small area is a sensible first step with any new product.

Is titanium dioxide the same as zinc oxide?

No, they are different minerals, though both work as physical UV filters that sit on the skin. Zinc oxide is often noted for broad UVA coverage, while titanium dioxide is especially effective against UVB. Many sunscreens use both together.