The photocatalytic activity of titanium dioxide results in thin coatings exhibiting self-cleaning and disinfecting properties under exposure to ultraviolet radiation. Alloys are characterized by being lightweight and having very high tensile strength (even at high temperatures), high corrosion resistance, and an ability to withstand extreme temperatures and thus are used principally in aircraft, pipes for power plants, armour plating, naval ships, spacecraft, and missiles.

Titanium dioxide is used in a wide range of food products and consumer goods – from candy to sunscreen and house paint. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration maintains that the regulated use of titanium dioxide, specifically as a color additive in food, is safe under some restrictions.

In 2023, the demand for titanium dioxide is expected to reach new heights. One of the main drivers of this growth is the cosmetics and personal care industry. Titanium dioxide is widely used in sunscreens, skin care products and cosmetics for its excellent UV protection properties and ability to provide a smooth surface. With growing awareness of the harmful effects of UV radiation, consumers are increasingly inclined to invest in products with sun protection. This trend is expected to drive the demand for titanium dioxide over the next few years.

if you compare the levels—which went as high as 50,000 milligrams/killigrams per day— to what humans are actually exposed to, we're talking orders of magnitude. It was a huge amount, Norbert Kaminski, PhD, a professor of pharmacology & toxicology and director of the Center for Research on Ingredient Safety at Michigan State University told Health.

“Unlike some other chemicals used in food, titanium dioxide has no nutritive, preservative, or food safety function—its use is purely cosmetic,” said CSPI principal scientist for additives and supplements, Thomas Galligan. “The prospect of titanium dioxide nanoparticles damaging DNA is concerning enough for us to recommend consumers avoid foods that have it.” 

What are the different forms of titanium dioxide in beauty and personal care products?

China’s TiO2 exports were booming in 2016. The continuously depreciating RMB and the increasing export scales of China’s manufacturers have strengthened this development throughout the year. As a fact, many of China’s producers exported their products with a lower price while achieving higher profit margins in the domestic market of TiO2. Tranalysis, a trade analysis provider, now reveals the top 10 Chinese TiO2 exporters of the year 2016 with the original data of China Customs.