What it is
This is an inorganic mixed-metal-oxide pigment combining iron and titanium that imparts warm tan-to-brown color tones to cosmetic formulas. In sun care it is commonly used to give tinted and illuminating sunscreens their shade and to help blend the product into a range of skin tones. It is used as a colorant and does not function as a UV filter.
Safety & warnings
Inorganic mineral oxide pigments of this type are generally well tolerated and are widely used in color cosmetics with a long record of skin compatibility. They are not known fragrance allergens and are not associated with significant comedogenicity at typical use levels.
Origin & sourcing
Inorganic mineral pigment; the cosmetic grade is typically synthesized for purity and consistent color, and the composition also occurs naturally as the mineral pseudobrookite.
Questions everyone asks
What does iron titanium oxide do in a sunscreen?
It is a mineral color pigment that gives tinted sunscreens their warm shade and helps the product blend with the skin; it does not provide UV protection.
Is it the same as titanium dioxide sunscreen filter?
No. Despite the similar name, it is a colored mixed-oxide pigment used for tint, not a white UV filter like titanium dioxide.