"I love these non-applicator tampons," raved one reviewer. But this amount varies by product. These popular period products are perfect for women with heavy flows because they are designed to expand in all directions to prevent leaks. At TOTM, we can confirm that we do not use titanium dioxide at any stage of our . But TiO2 is insoluble in water meaning that it cannot be dissolved into smaller particles. Experts that spoke to Gizmodo also insisted that there is no evidence that titanium dioxide in tampons, other topical products (sunscreen), and food is unsafe to humans as it currently used. Tampax comes in light, regular, and super absorbencies and . More: Which supplements are most likely to land you in the ER? Regarding risk of cancer, there is an oft-cited study that shows that chronic high-level exposure of inhaled TiO2 could be linked to lung cancer in rats. I wouldn't raise the alarm. Some country-level occupational health and safety organizations cite a lack of high-quality studies from which they can draw any concrete conclusions about the long-term risks of titanium dioxide exposure. Dr. Ryan Marino, a medical toxicologist and assistant professor at Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, told Gizmodo in an email that inhaled titanium dioxide (primarily related to industrial exposure) is considered possibly carcinogenic. Sunscreens can have concentrations of up to 25%. Some. Some experts say that there's no need to lose sleep over having titanium dioxide in tampons. So, why would they use an ingredient that can be considered cariogenic and cause reproductive issues with tampons? Just last year the European Food Safety Authority concluded that titanium dioxide can no longer be considered safe in food, because of genotoxicity concerns [2]. That said, with all the scientific evidence accumulating in other areas, consumers should be more aware of titanium dioxide's potential effect on reproductive health, Dr. Gohar says. None. The FDA classifies tampons and pads as medical devices, and thus manufacturers of these products are recommended, but not required, to list their ingredients. Titanium dioxide, or TiO2, is a naturally occurring mineral comprised of titanium and oxygen. This box of organic tampons from Top comes in both super and regular sizes, for light and heavy days. But while many want to try and put two and two together, the bottom line is that there isnt enough data to confirm the claims that titanium dioxide in tampons is causing the ovarian cysts and other issues people are describing. The 2023 Complete Python Certification Bootcamp Bundle, Mourning the Loss of Addison Raes Debut Album | The Meme Machine. And see what they say. "Didn't get the weird tingling that other tampons can give you. That environment includes where you live, work, play, and pray. As Dr. Eyvazzadeh points out, we just don't know either wayno matter how certain Becky on TikTok seems. TikTokers are raising concern about titanium dioxide, a whitening agent, in organic tampons. If you use tampons during your period (or menstruation), its important to know how to use them safely. womensvoices@womensvoices.org. Is this just a big conspiracy someone is trying to push? Media inquiries? Because there's so little conclusive research on the potential effects of titanium dioxide, you're not going to find clear, concise guidance for tampon shopping by studying up. It is the mostwidely used white pigment because of its brightness and very high refractive index meaning that its "brilliant whiteness" does not allow light to pass through. I will share what I know about titanium dioxide in tampons! Everyone deserves to live in a healthy and safe environment. "I love that these are eco-friendly, biodegradable, and non-toxic," wrote one. "I don't feel as though organic tampons are necessarily any safer than the traditionally manufactured tampons available to the consumer," she said. While you may have heard about reusable tampons, the FDA has not cleared or approved these products. var js, fjs = d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0]; The compound is used safely in many foods and cosmetics, but it's still banned in foods in the UK.. For sunscreen, the research that's been done has looked at how much titanium dioxide do you absorb through your skin when you put it on as a sunscreen, she said. PolitiFact | Is the titanium dioxide in tampons toxic? Thats huge, considering the FDA doesnt require companies to list the individual ingredients in tampons and pads since theyre considered medical devices. Read reviews and buy Tampax Pure Cotton Tampons - Super - 24ct at Target. Titanium dioxide is in food, cosmetics, dye, tampons. Shoppers are fans of the tampon's compact design that fits in the palm of their hand, allowing them to discreetly carry one to the bathroom. The danger is that people will listen to the sensationalized viral video, instead of having a real conversation about risks with their doctor or health care provider.. Some worry it causes cancer, irregular periods. You might be racking your brain and thinking, But what about all the studies you just mentioned. Science is complex. Since many of us have been loyal to the same feminine care products that we've been using since we first got our periods, you may have some questions before switching products. Meanwhile, Procter & Gamble, which carries the brands This Is L, Always, and Tampax, has been responding to concerns surrounding titanium dioxide in its products. WVE envisions a world free from the impacts of toxic chemicals, one where our planet and communities are thriving, one where our gender, race, sexuality, zip code, income level or job does not determine our health outcomes. L. Organic 100% Cotton Core Tampons Regular, 76 Count ", These organic cotton tampons from Rael have a near-perfect rating on Amazon thanks to their leak-locking technology and ultra-slim BPA-free applicator that glides in easily and comfortably. Here arefivesteps you can start applying today: Do this, not that: Simple swaps to boost your wellness, More: Why Epsom salt should be a staple in your home medicine cabinet, Michael Daignault, MD, is a board-certified ER doctor in Los Angeles. Titanium dioxide in tampons: What you need to know - USA TODAY And live a healthy lifestyle. And even heard from the company behind the tampons in question. The suit claims the substance is unfit for human consumption, but the toxicologist stated that the lawsuit is based on gross misinterpretations of the available data to claim a human cancer risk. We independently research, test, review, and recommend the best But, again, further study is needed.. We may earn a commission from links on this page. No evidence titanium dioxide in tampon strings causes cancer This is totally safe.. "There is no published research available currently that has examined the impacts of vaginal or vulvar exposure to titanium dioxide." Theyre actually in other brands like Always pads and Tampax tampons. You can find out more about our use, change your default settings, and withdraw your consent at any time with effect for the future by visiting Cookies Settings, which can also be found in the footer of the site. Get it daily. FDA-cleared tampons are made of cotton, rayon, or a blend of the two. L. '100% Organic' Tampons Contain Non-Organic Ingredients, Class Action It's mainly used for color. But if we are exposed to these same substances via a different route than how they are intended, or at a higher dose, they can be toxic. "You will want to make sure they are composed of 100% organic cotton, free of chemicals, rayon, and synthetics, fragrance-free, hypoallergenic, not bleached with chlorine, dioxin free, and free of additive chemicals.". ", Price at time of publication: $13.99 for 36 count. While paying $300 a month for health insurance. Here's what the experts suggest Keep it simple: Things like colorants, whiteners, and fragrances are not necessary to the product, Scranton said. One of the tricky things about titanium dioxide is that it can be consumed in a myriad of ways, making risk calculation difficult. Health First: A Cleaning Products Industry Roadmap for Selecting Safer Chemicals, Beyond the Label: Health Impacts of Harmful Ingredients in Cleaning Products, https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/medwatch/index.cfm?action=consumer.reporting1, More Period Policies are Addressing Ingredient Safety and Transparency, Thinx PFAS Lawsuit Also Calls Attention to Nanosilver Concerns, Modernization of Cosmetics Regulation Act of 2022: MOCRA Explained, First US approval of indoor air disinfectant draws NGO criticism, Johnson & Johnson Will Discontinue Talc-Based Baby Powder Globally in 2023. The compound is used safely in many foods and cosmetics, but it's still banned in foods in the UK. And the data seems to [indicate] that not very much gets into your body. Certainly, we don't have the data to support that alarmist concern. Activated charcoal benefits explained:Does it actually prevent hangovers? Love, love, love it. Is this an emergency? Likely in your daily life, you have much more significant exposures to this class of chemicals. For about the last twenty years the majority of cotton farmers have been using seeds that were modified to have resistance to a major herbicide known as glyphosate. Unfortunately, this question doesnt have a simple answer. L. brand tampons use titanium dioxide as pigment in the thread that attaches the stringto the absorbent part of the tampon. The https:// ensures that you are connecting to the official website and that any information you provide is encrypted and transmitted securely. ", Price at time of publication: $14.99 for 32 count. An official website of the United States government, Recalls, Market Withdrawals and Safety Alerts, The Facts on Tamponsand How to Use Them Safely. TikTokers say titanium dioxide in organic tampons led to - Yahoo! According to the brand, these organic O.b. "While most cosmetic products will disclose whether or not titanium dioxide is an ingredientsome states require itit is important to note that the FDA does not currently require brands to disclose this information.". I used this exact brand. When Aunt Flo makes her monthly visit, some people prefer pads, while other swear by menstrual cups or tampons. The only tampons cleared or approved by the FDA are designed for single-use. But titanium dioxide's possible deleterious effects extend beyond ingesting it. "They come in two different sizesregular and superwhich are very convenient depending on the day. Making a purchase through our links may earn Well+Good a commission. Thanks, So sorry to hear of your experience it is indeed a frustrating situation. With these there's no irritation or dryness, I honestly forget they're in. Sunscreens can have concentrations of up to 25%. Sunscreens can have concentrations of up to 25%. All rights reserved. As to whether its nanoparticals in the string or not, once blood an other fluids touches the chemical its most likely all fusing together and that is going inside our very sensitive systems. Is Titanium Dioxide in Tampons Unsafe? | livestrong L. Organic Cotton Ultra Thin Pads for Women, Regular Absorbency, Free from Chlorine Bleaching Pesticides Fragrances Or Dyes, 84 Count. While there's concern over This Is L Incs tampons, the use of the ingredient in period products isnt new. It's also worth being skeptical of any definitive claims that titanium dioxide in tampons is super harmful. Titanium dioxide might be one of these. Fortunately, many new wave period-care companies are extremely transparent about their ingredients lists. Including. Morgans TikTok has received more than 30,000 comments on the platform and spurred countlessvideoresponses from other users and creators swearing off L. tampons and any other tampons with titanium dioxide. Could it really be responsible for reproductive health issues? 6 min read. A recent TikTok video went viral with the false claim that the titanium dioxide used in L. brand organic tampons is responsible for miscarriages, cancer and a host of other medical problems. However, larger quantities of titanium dioxide might be damaging if ingested, Dr. Gohar says. Alkaline water:Should you be splurging to make your body less acidic? Since the heaviness of your flow can fluctuate each day during your period, many women keep a variety of tampon sizes on hand. But there's not much research to tell us what the potential effects are of TiO2 in certain other formats, like if you eat a little bit of it in food, or regularly insert small amounts of it in your body via a tampon for a few days each month. Not surprisingly, because it is easier to spray weeds than it is to remove them by hand or machine, farmers started using more and more of this herbicide. at the Posner Center It gets used in a LOT of products and it's probably been in tampons and pads for a long time (just never listed on the label before). If you are experiencing serious medical symptoms, please see the New comments cannot be posted and votes cannot be cast. Case in point: exposure to titanium dioxide may destroy good gut microbes, cause gut dysfunction and increase intestinal inflammation, according to a February 2021 systematic review of animal studies published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health.. People have gotten into a debate over whether or not organic tampons and pads shorten the length of menstrual cycles. What Are the Symptoms of Having Your Period? Organyc 100% Certified Organic Cotton Tampons. Missoula, MT 59807, Visit us in Denver I wear zero makeup. Sunscreen can safely contain up to 25% titanium dioxide. What do they know about titanium dioxide that assures them its safe? "If you feel uncomfortable with the potential risks associated with titanium dioxide, look for products that dont include titanium dioxide on the ingredients list," says Flynn. Hundreds of Amazon shoppers love these organic cotton tampons from Seventh Generation because of their comfortable, dual-layer design that prevents leaks. I cant guarantee that the FDA will take any immediate action, but it can help get their attention, if they see a number of reports associated with a product. ELI5: Is there actual dangers to using titanium dioxide in tampons? Overall, what i know is there is two types of titanium dioxide but now the food grade is considered unfit for Skittles. Let's look at the concerns around today's feminine hygiene products, specifically national brand tampons and pads. Then you can make your own decision. Tampons are not intended to be used at any other time or . Be cautious and meet with your physician: Always be vigilant and also don't get overwhelmed by what's on the internet, Dr. Dziadek said. But this amount varies by product. OK, so what about titanium dioxide in tampons, which sit inside you for hours at a time? However, these studies were conducted on mice who orally consumed titanium dioxide, so we'll still need extensive clinical research on humans before we can definitively link TiO2 with reproductive disruptionor assume those risks definitely come from other intakes of the ingredient. Try These OB-GYN-Recommended, Titanium Dioxide-Free Period Products Rael Organic Cotton Tampons ($13.99 for a 32-count box on Amazon.com) August Tampons ($11 for a 16-count box on Itsaugust.co) Diva Cup ($39.99 for one menstrual cup on Divacup.com) Advertisement references Is this an emergency? We all know social media is a breeding ground for misinformation and disinformation. For all I know at this time, titanium dioxide in pads and tampons might be just fine, but Im not sure we have the science to prove it. if (d.getElementById(id)) return; polyester, glycerin, paraffin, titanium dioxide. 10 Best Tampon Brands In 2023, According To Ob-Gyns - Women's Health Before any tampons can be legally sold in the U.S., they must go through the FDAs review to determine whether they are as safe and effective as (substantially equivalent to) legally marketed tampons. Ingestion: likely not harmful at the low levels we typically encounter it. And since the chemical is in the cotton plant it will also be in the cotton produced from the plant. Also, it may be genotoxic, meaning it can harm your DNA. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); (function(d, s, id) { Best Organic Tampons. Organic Tampons, Best for Leak Protection: Rael Organic Cotton Tampons, Best Affordable Option: Just Cotton Core Tampons, Feminine Hygiene Products Are Selling Out, But We Found 10 You Can Still Buy Online, The 12 Best Laundry Detergents for Sensitive Skin of 2023, 10 Best Pillowcases and Protectors for People with Allergies, The 12 Best Socks for Sweaty Feet of 2023, Sleep Awards 2022: 30 Products to Help You Sleep Better, The 10 Best Kegel Balls of 2023, Reviewed and Approved, I Tried Freshly Meals for a WeekHere's My Honest Review, The 10 Best Latex Mattresses That Are Cooling, Comfortable, and Durable, The 9 Best Body Sunscreens Dermatologists Recommend for Year-Round Protection, Veeda Natural Cotton Applicator Free Tampons, Seventh Generation Organic Cotton Tampons, organic cotton tampons from Seventh Generation, super plus organic cotton tampons from Lola. For many, the video has raised awareness about an important issue: The chemicals in our products. "As an oxide, titanium is found in minerals in the earth's crust and is also found with other elements, including calcium and iron. Menstrual pads get even more complicated with top layers, middle layers of absorbent foam, super absorbent polymers, various waterproof backings, more fragrance, lots of coatings to wick fluid and aid absorption, lotion ingredients like petrolatum, adhesives made with styrene, more titanium dioxide to make it look whiter, as well as colored dyes for pretty designs. (The FDA says that manufacturers can have no more than 1 percent TiO2 in food.). Gunter also added that when products like titanium dioxide are put on fabric, the point is to have them stay on the fabric. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Cause-and-effect can only be established by rigorous randomized-control, double-blindclinical research trials or meta-analyses of multiple smaller studies, for example. Our website is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Glyphosateis from a class of chemicals known as endocrine disrupters. ", Price at time of publication: $7.95 for 14 count. When inhaled repeatedly, this white powder can irritate the lungs, causing problems like bronchitis or even lung cancer, as it's been shown to be a known carcinogen in animals, according to the New Jersey Department of Health. Protective wrap stands up to the roughest of travel and yet is easily unwrapped so no time is wasted. Lincoln said this led some to believe that. Pain Inserting a Tampon? There are many substances, including medications, that we safely encounter or consume on a regular basis. It's used in sunscreen, all kinds of cosmetics, medications, and you'll find it in food. As for the potential risks (or lack thereof!) The FDA has found that regulated amounts of titanium dioxide are considered safe. Estimated ship dimensions: 2.795 inches length x 4.37 inches width x 5.669 inches height. They also like the fact that the tampons are gynecologist-approved and from a women-owned business. A spokesperson for Proctor and Gamble, which manufactures the L. tampons brand, told Insider titanium dioxide is used in the thread that attaches the cord to the absorbent part of the tampon, and . A TikTok with more than 3 million views is raising questions about just that. It is important to note that studies in rats, mice and other animals are not directly applicable to humans. According to the suit, 80 percent of the tampons' ingredients are "not cotton," and 60 percent of the ingredients are "not organic," as . "So, if titanium dioxide is giving you anxiety that you just can't shake," there are plenty of period care products and trustworthy tampon brands you can try without the chemical, Dr. Gohar says. (That's slowly changing after New York passed a law requiring ingredients lists on menstrual products sold in the state). These are the best organic tampons to shop for: With nearly 3,000 five-star ratings, these organic tampons from Organyc are an Amazon favorite. Though some research identified a link between the . Your official excuse to add "OOD" (ahem, out of doors) to your cal. Exposure to these chemicals can then interfere with important processes in your body. The simple answer is nothere is no scientific evidence that organic tampons are safer than other options on the market. I am less concerned with the level of titanium dioxide in tamponsthan I am with how social media users dangerously, and unchecked, amplifymisinformation. Im 27 years old. The rule for food items is that the coloring agent can't exceed 1% of the food's weight. There are a number of folks online recently worried about finding titanium dioxide as an ingredient in their tampons and pads and wondering if it is related to some health conditions they are experiencing like ovarian cysts, miscarriages, UTIs and more. }(document, 'script', 'advocacy-actionwidget-code')); Womens Voices for the Earth However there is not enough proof showing titanium dioxide coloring in tampons to be harmful. By now, you may have seen the viral video of the girl finding Titanium Dioxide and Polyester in her L Organic tampons and what's crazy is, I even had some of the same brand here at home. AT AMAZON. In Turmoil Over Tampons, Scientists See a Need for More Study Is the Acrylamide in Coffee Actually Bad for You? Denver, Colorado 80205, Phone: (406) 543-3747 Verywell Health's content is for informational and educational purposes only. Comes with twelve different courses comprised of a huge number of lessons, and each one will help you learn more about Python itself, and can be accessed when you want and as often as you want forever, making it ideal for learning a new skill. "If this worries you, then don't use products that have this," Jennifer Lincoln, MD, shared in a video. If you can find products that don't have them, that's gonna lessen your exposure., Follow the less is more approach: Meaning [the] lowest possible use of anything that has not been tested properly, Dr. Cohen said. No rayon, dyes, perfumes, colors, or chlorine is used to make them either. Price at time of publication: $6.98 for 20 count. No tampon should be used more than once. Theres been a lot of alarmist concern, she said. He studied Global Health at Georgetown University and has a Medical Degree from Ben-Gurion University. Addressing a popular TikTok concern over titanium dioxide getting absorbed by the vagina, Gunter said that this doesnt happen because of titanium dioxides chemical composition. Heres what we know about exposure to titanium dioxide right now: If you inhale titanium dioxide particles it can possibly lead to lung cancer at least we know it causes lung cancer in rats [1]. The tampons are made from 100% organic cotton that is both soft and breathable. fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js, fjs); But no matter what your period product preference, you shouldn't be worried about whether it can harm your health. It also appears insunscreen and cosmetics, two categories in which the ingredient is also generally considered safe. You can also register your story with the FDA Medwatch program their online form is here: https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/medwatch/index.cfm?action=consumer.reporting1 and on that form you can offer as much or as little information as you wish. Difference Between Regular and Organic Tampons, Best Overall: Organyc 100% Certified Organic Tampons, Best Eco-Friendly Applicator: Tampax Pure Organic Tampons, Best Cardboard Applicator: Oi Certified Organic Tampons, Best Applicator Free: Veeda Natural Cotton Applicator Free Tampons, Best for Light Flow: Seventh Generation Organic Cotton Tampons, Best for Heavy Flow: Lola Super Plus Organic Cotton Tampons, Best Variety Pack: Top Regular & Super Organic Tampons, Best Hypoallergenic Option: Cora Organic Cotton Tampons, Best Overnight Option: O.B.