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March 21, 2018

EC Requests Scientific Opinion on Two Coatings for Titanium Dioxide (Nano Form) as a UV-Filter in Dermally Applied Cosmetic Products

Lynn L. Bergeson Carla N. Hutton

The Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) announced on March 20, 2018, that the European Commission (EC) requested a scientific opinion on two coatings for titanium dioxide (nano form) (methicone and perfluorooctyl triethoxysilane) as an ultraviolet (UV)-filter in dermally applied cosmetic products.  In its July 2013 safety evaluation of titanium dioxide (nano), SCCS listed substances considered safe for use as coatings for titanium dioxide (nano).  SCCS stated that other cosmetic ingredients applied as stable coatings could also be used, provided that they can be demonstrated to be safe and the coatings do not affect the particle properties related to behavior and/or effects.  In November 2017, the EC received a dossier related to two nano forms of titanium dioxide materials coated with the following substances:

  • Material A: Methicone + Hydrated Silica + Aluminum Hydroxide; and
  • Material B: Perfluorooctyl Triethoxysilane + Hydrated Silica + Aluminum Hydroxide.

The EC asks SCCS to evaluate the safety of the materials when used as coatings on titanium dioxide (nano) for use as a UV-filter in dermally applied cosmetic products.  The EC also asks whether SCCS has any further scientific concerns regarding the use of titanium dioxide (nano) coated with the materials when used as a UV-filter in dermally applied cosmetic products.  The deadline is October 2018.