Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 5, 2026

05:45
Assessing Disaster Resilience of Concrete with Titanium Dioxide Nanoparticles
Published on: November 14, 2025
The state of nano-sized titanium dioxide (TiO2) may affect sunscreen performance
K M Tyner1, A M Wokovich, D E Godar
1Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, MD 20993, USA. nakissa.sadrieh@fda.hhs.gov
International Journal of Cosmetic Science
|January 27, 2011
Summary
Nanoscale titanium dioxide (TiO2) in sunscreens offers better UV protection without harming skin barrier function. Coated, evenly distributed nanoscale TiO2 provides optimal efficacy and safety.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Dermatology
- Cosmetic Science
Background:
- Trend towards using nanoscale titanium dioxide (TiO2) in cosmetics and sunscreens.
- Concerns regarding the safety and efficacy of nanoproducts, particularly nanoscale TiO2.
- Need to evaluate nanoscale TiO2's impact on UV attenuation and skin health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of nanoscale TiO2 on UV light attenuation in various sunscreen formulations.
- To assess product stability and potential skin barrier damage using both nanoscale and microscale TiO2.
- To compare the performance of nanoscale versus microscale TiO2 in sunscreen applications.
Main Methods:
- Formulation of sunscreens with varying concentrations of nanoscale and microscale TiO2.
- Measurement of UV light attenuation across different formulations.
- Evaluation of sunscreen product stability and skin barrier integrity through standardized tests.
Main Results:
- No tested sunscreen formulations negatively impacted the skin barrier function.
- Optimal UV attenuation was achieved with coated, evenly distributed, non-agglomerated nanoscale TiO2 particles.
- Nanoscale TiO2 demonstrated superior UV blocking capabilities compared to microscale particles in tested formulations.
Conclusions:
- Nanoscale TiO2 can be effectively used in sunscreens for enhanced UV protection.
- Coating and proper dispersion are crucial for maximizing the efficacy and safety of nanoscale TiO2.
- Current findings suggest nanoscale TiO2 possesses better efficacy and lacks toxicity in cosmetic formulations.

