As per the request, the SCCS will evaluate whether the nanomaterial is safe at a concentration up to 5.5%.
The ingredient is authorized as a colorant under entry 143 of Annex IV and as a UV-filter under entry 27 of Annex VI to Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009, and was subject to a safety assessment back in July 2013.
At this time the SCCS delivered an opinion on the nano form of TiO2, concluding that its use as a UV-filter in sunscreens, with the characteristics indicated in the opinion, and at a concentration up to 25%, “can be considered to not pose any risk of adverse effects in humans after application on healthy, intact or sunburnt skin.”
Consideration
The SCCS also noted that, on the basis of the available information at the time, that the use of TiO2 nanoparticles in spray products could not be considered safe.
The Committee also indicated, in a further opinion on 23 September 2014 for clarification of the meaning of the term ‘sprayable application/products’ for the nano forms of Carbon Black CI 77266, Titanium Dioxide and Zinc Oxide, that its concern is limited to spray applications that might lead to exposure of the consumer's lungs to Titanium Dioxide nanoparticles by inhalation.
However, in July this year, the SCCS received new data from industry to support the safe use of TiO2 (nano) when used as a UV-Filter in sunscreens and personal care spray products at a concentration up to 5.5 %, and has thus requested this new opinion.
For the new opinion, it asks:
(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%?
(2) Does the SCCS have any further scientific concerns regarding the use of Titanium Dioxide (nano) when used as UV-Filter in sunscreens and personal care spray products?