Misinformation over the use of Octinoxate and Titanium Dioxide in Breeze Balm cream.

BB Cream, short for “Beauty” or “Blemish” Balm, is a multifunctional skincare and makeup product. It helps in protecting the skin from the sun and covers redness and pigmentation. 

But recently, social media users have raised their concerns over the use of ingredients like Octinoxate and Titanium Dioxide in Breeze Balm products. The claim states that these two ingredients are harmful as they are known for disrupting hormones

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Fact Check- 

Let’s check the facts about the two mentioned ingredient- Octinoxate and Titanium Dioxide

Octinoxate: Octinoxate or Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate is a chemical ingredient used majorly in sunscreen products to absorb UV-B rays. It is used in other products like BB creams and foundations, lip balm, moisturizers and some body and face lotions. 

According to some reports, Octinoxate can interfere with hormones in the body. There are chances that it may increase cell growth linked to estrogen which could lead to breast cancer. In females, it can reduce important reproductive hormones, leading to infertility or miscarriages. In males, it can lower sperm count. Exposure to this even before birth can harm the development of reproductive organs in both males and females.

But, the Cosmetic Ingredient Safety panel stated that the FDA has approved octinoxate as a sunscreen and moisturising lotion ingredient.  In 2019, the FDA asked for more research on some sunscreen ingredients, including octinoxate, to confirm safety. In 2021, the FDA had clarified that octinoxate is safe and products containing it will remain in the market.

The European Union had approved the use of octinoxate as a UV filter in sunscreen products at a maximum concentration of 10%. It is approved as a safe and effective sunscreen ingredient in Canada, Australia and Japan.

The Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) reviewed the safety of Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate and found that it can act on some hormones. Despite this they concluded that the ingredient is safe to use in products like sunscreen, creams, lipsticks etc. with concentration up to 10%. The SCCS also stated that these products are safe for children even with higher exposure relative to body weight. 

Titanium Dioxide: According to the National Institute of Health, nano form of Titanium Dioxide is used in sunscreen and other products. It protects the skin from UV rays and works against sunburn and skin cancer. 

There were concerns that these nano particles of titanium dioxide might enter the body through the skin, but the studies had shown that these particles stay on the outer skin layer and don’t reach the bloodstream. The SCCS found that it doesn’t cause allergies, serious irritation, cancer, or reproductive harm when used on the skin at levels up to 25%. However, it should not be used in sprays or powders that can be inhaled. 

Conclusion: 

Fact Crescendo found the claim to be false. Presence of Octinoxate and titanium dioxide are approved ingredients and their use in Breeze balm products do not make the product harmful.