Titanium Dioxide Supplier South Africa

What Is Cosmetic-Grade Titanium Dioxide?

Titanium dioxide (TiO₂) is an inorganic mineral UV filter and white pigment used widely in cosmetics, sunscreens, pharmaceuticals, foods, and coatings. In sunscreen chemistry, TiO₂ acts as a physical (mineral) UV filter — it scatters, reflects, and absorbs UV radiation rather than absorbing and re-emitting it like organic UV filters (chemical sunscreens). Cosmetic-grade TiO₂ is available in two main particle size ranges: non-nano (pigment grade, >100 nm) which provides high opacity and whiteness alongside UV protection, and nano/microfine grade (primary particle size typically 10–50 nm), which provides UV protection with significantly reduced whitening effect, important for tinted and skin-tone-friendly sunscreen formulations.

Sunscreen and Cosmetic Formulation

Microfine TiO₂ in sunscreens provides broad-spectrum UV protection across UVB (290–320 nm) and UVA II (320–340 nm). Its UVA I coverage (340–400 nm) is less complete than that of avobenzone or zinc oxide, so it is commonly combined with zinc oxide or organic UVA filters for full UVA I protection in high-SPF products. Surface-coated TiO₂ grades (hydrophilic coatings for water-dispersible systems, hydrophobic coatings for anhydrous and oil formulations) are supplied for specific formulation systems. In colour cosmetics (foundations, pressed powders, BB creams), pigment-grade TiO₂ provides white pigmentation, opacity, and coverage.

Industrial Applications

In paints and coatings, TiO₂ is the dominant white pigment globally, providing hiding power, brightness, and UV stability. In plastics, paper, and inks it provides opacity and whiteness. Food-grade TiO₂ (E171) has been subject to regulatory review in the EU (currently suspended for food use) but remains a colourant in confectionery in many markets. Terracore Chemicals supplies TiO₂ in cosmetic, pharmaceutical, and industrial grades across Southern Africa.