It seems like my entire TikTok FYP has been full of videos about titanium dioxide in tampons and pads the past few days. That’s because this toxic ingredient has been exposed in a popular “organic” tampon brand called L.
Women all over TikTok are outraged at this discovery because they feel like they have been lied to and they have every right to be upset!
But honestly, this is nothing new.
Unfortunately, titanium dioxide and other toxic ingredients have been found in many foods and personal hygiene products for a while. Also, recently there was another study that found BPA in sports bras!
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. This is not medical advice. I am not a doctor. All opinions are my own.
So what should you do? When you learn about toxins being exposed it’s a great opportunity to take your health into your own hands.
These brands don’t care about our health, they care about our wallets but luckily there are better options!
Let’s explore what titanium dioxide is and what brands are safe to use. I’ll also give you a quick and easy way to find out if your other products have toxins in them.
What is Titanium Dioxide in Tampons?
According to Wikipedia “Titanium dioxide, also known as titanium(IV) oxide or titania is an inorganic compound. When used as a pigment, it is called titanium white, Pigment White 6 (PW6), or CI 77891.”
“As a pigment, it has a wide range of applications, including paint, sunscreen, and food coloring.”
As far as tampons and pads go titanium dioxide is used to make them appear white. Seems like a pretty pointless reason to me considering titanium dioxide is considered a possible carcinogen!
One video explained that a woman had been using the product and got ovarian cysts. Although we don’t know if this is related many other women commented on the post with similar issues.
Another video showed a man shopping for tampons for his wife and he explained that you have to check the box because titanium dioxide can also be used under its other names: titanium white, Pigment White 6 (PW6), or CI 77891.
Titanium dioxide according to The International Agency for Research on Cancer is classified as “possibly carcinogenic to humans.” This is based on studies that show rats develop lung tumors after prolonged exposure to titanium dioxide.
Now before you panic just know that titanium dioxide is most dangerous when inhaled.
We do not yet know the effects it has when we are exposed to it in pads and tampons but I think the best bet for all of us is to just switch to a brand that doesn’t have any sketchy ingredients!
Nontoxic Tampons & Pads
Honey Pot
Honey pot products are 100% natural and their ingredients include: chlorine & pesticide-free cotton, infused rose, lavender, aloe, and mint essential oils.
Rael
Rael products are made from 100% organic cotton produced in Texas without harsh chemicals that can disrupt your hormones or expose you to carcinogens. They also make cloth reusable pads!
How to Check Your Products for Toxins
Before I bring any personal care product into my home I always check the ingredients. A super simple way to check is to look up the product in the EWG skin deep database.
They will tell you a breakdown of each ingredient and whether it is toxic or not! Super simple!
Also, another big offender of toxins is deodorant but I have you covered with these nontoxic DIY deodorants!
Wrapping Up
I know it can be scary when a health-related issue goes viral on TikTok but just remember that knowledge is power! I am thankful for the brave women who are standing up for our health and informing others when they find a company is being shady.
Now that we know it’s time to ditch the titanium dioxide-filled tampons and pads and find a more natural solution!
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