The SCCS has just published its final Opinion on the safety of Titanium Dioxide in nano-from as UV-filter in sprays. It was adopted by written process on 19 January 2018. This Opinion has been subject to a commenting period of nine weeks (from 13 March 2017 to 14 May 2017) after its initial publication, and is now the final version.
Background
Titanium Dioxide (CAS/EC numbers: 13463-67-7/236-675-5, 1317-70-0/205-280-2, 1317-80-2/215-282-2) is authorized both as colorant under entry 143 of Annex IV and as UV-filter under entry 27 of Annex VI to Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009.
In July 2015, the Commission services received new data from industry to support the safe use of Titanium Dioxide (nano) when used as UV-filter in sunscreens and personal care spray products at a concentration up to 5.5%.
For full background information, see the articles
• Nano-TiO2 in sprays: a new request for Opinion to SCCS of September 22, 2015
• Basic Blue 99, TiO2 [nano] in sprays: Two Opinions of SCCS of March 27, 2017
Opinion
1. In light of the data provided, does the SCCS consider Titanium Dioxide (nano) safe when used as UV filter in sunscreens and personal care spray products at a concentration up to 5.5%?
From analysis of the submitted dossier, the SCCS has concluded that the information provided is insufficient to allow assessment of the safety of the use of nano-TiO2 in spray applications that could lead to exposure of the consumer’s lungs.
The dossier provides exposure studies that have been conducted with water-based sprayable products with low alcohol content, which according …