Is Titanium Dioxide safe during pregnancy?
Mineral sunscreen filter and white pigment, recommended during pregnancy. Prefer creams over sprays or loose powders.
PregnancyGenerally safe
BreastfeedingGenerally safe
EvidenceModerate
What the sources say
AAD advises a zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide sunscreen in pregnancy, and FDA proposes titanium dioxide as generally recognized as safe and effective, noting it does not meaningfully penetrate skin. A 2025 review names mineral filters the first choice for pregnant and breastfeeding women and recommends non-spray formulas to avoid inhalation. It is also a common pigment in makeup.
Common alternatives
Also listed as
ci 77891, nano titanium dioxide, tio2, titanium dioxide (nano)
Sources
- AAD: Dermatologist-approved pregnancy skin care
- FDA: Questions and Answers: FDA's regulatory actions on over-the-counter sunscreen
- NIH PubMed (peer-reviewed review): Photoprotection in pregnancy: addressing safety concerns and optimizing skin health (Front Med, 2025)
Last reviewed . This is general information, not medical advice. Ask your doctor or midwife about your own situation.