Gizmodo reached out to TikTok multiple times on Thursday to ask if it would take any action on content crying wolf about the dangers of titanium dioxide and tampons but did not receive a response. Rates of reported TSS cases associated with tampons have declined significantly over the years. However, trouble arose for the ingredient in 2021 when the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) issued a statement that titanium dioxide "could no longer be considered safe" as a food additive. Study after study has flagged concerns about the potential damaging effects of titanium dioxide on organs like the liver and kidney. ", Price at time of publication: $13.99 for 36 count. Since tampons are inserted inside our bodies for hours at a time, it makes sense that people would have safety concerns, but Dr. Ross says there is no reason for concern. It's mainly used for color. With these there's no irritation or dryness, I honestly forget they're in. Chemistry class was a long time ago. Titanium dioxide doesnt dissolve in water, meaning the nanoparticles arent going to dissolve from the tampon string and get into the blood that might be pooling in the vagina and then get absorbed by the body, she wrote. For example, here's the ingredient list for Tampax Peal The rule for food items is that the coloring agent can't exceed 1% of the food's weight. How Often to Change Tampons or Pads During Your Period, The 12 Best Period Underwear of 2023, Tested and Reviewed, How to Stop Bacterial Vaginosis From Coming Back Permanently, Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals and Cancer, Here's Why It's So Hard to Know If Your Period Underwear Is PFAS-Free, GMO (genetically modified organism) farming, Tampons and pads made from organic cotton, Diamanti-Kandarakis E et al, Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals: An Endocrine Society Scientific Statement, Endocrine Review 2009 Jun;30(4) 293-342. Your official excuse to add "OOD" (ahem, out of doors) to your cal. Fortunately, many new wave period-care companies are extremely transparent about their ingredients lists. Everyone deserves to live in a healthy and safe environment. This is misleading; the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved the compound's use in food and cosmetics, and experts say no studies have proven a link between tampon strings and cancer in humans. 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. Titanium dioxide is common chemical. "Very pleased with these," wrote one reviewer. For many, the video has raised awareness about an important issue: The chemicals in our products. Titanium dioxide is a white powder and a common ingredient in many products. However there is not enough proof showing titanium dioxide coloring in tampons to be harmful. The other thing that we know [about titanium dioxide is] you don't wanna inhale it, Scranton said. 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. ", Price at time of publication: $14.99 for 32 count. js.src = '//p2a.co/js/embed/widget/advocacywidget.min.js'; "I highly recommend these tampons," wrote one customer. "Again, the data is inconclusive on whether these products are really linked to excessive bleeding, cancer and infertility, so it's not right or wrong to continue using these products based on currently available information," Dr. Gohar says. It is thought that exposure to the developing fetus may be the time when these chemicals have some of the most significant impacts on future health. "Titanium dioxide is the naturally occurring compound created when titanium reacts with oxygen in the air," explains endocrinologist and advisor at reproductive-health company Natalist Aimee Eyvazzadeh, MD. Aka a common coloring agent. of using pads and tampons with titanium dioxidewe just don't know for certain. 4.7 out of 5 stars. I can wear them for as long as necessary and there is no leakage. So there are lots of ways to be exposed to this chemical. Wondering the Best Organic Tampons? And then look up and vet the products that we do have available.. Think: Many of them are animal studies. Nonetheless, doctors on TikTok and across social media have come out to say that tampon users should not panic, as there is no scientific evidence that titanium dioxide in tampons cause any harm. 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. FDA-cleared tampons are made of cotton, rayon, or a blend of the two. The only tampons cleared or approved by the FDA are designed for single-use. Lincoln said this led some to believe that. So heres a refresher: Titanium dioxide is a naturally occurring mineral. Morgan explains that she learned about the purported dangers of these tampons after TikTok showed her a video of a girl using the same brand that had experienced two weeks of excessive bleeding and extreme pain, ovarian cysts, and irreversible uterine damage. But, again, further study is needed.. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved titanium dioxide for human consumption in 1966, cementing its presence in a variety of foods, including candies and other processed foods.. $12.59. And is used as a coloring agent to brighten and whiten things like period products. 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. A world where workers are treated with dignity from our paychecks to our working conditions. All rights reserved. Over the years, companies like Dunkin have announced theyre cutting ties with titanium dioxide (which used it for its powdered donuts). "I don't feel as though organic tampons are necessarily any safer than the traditionally manufactured tampons available to the consumer," she said. There are however many brands who do not use this in their period products. The compound is used safely in many foods and cosmetics, but it's still banned in foods in the UK. 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. Do you need an 'armpit detox?' 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 . $17.50 ($0.24/Count) Sold by Utopia Distributors and ships from Amazon Fulfillment. Lets look at the concerns around todays feminine hygiene products, specifically national brand tampons and pads. So you can choose whether or not you want to accept a possible risk to have a whiter tampon OR choose a brand that doesnt include it. Pro tip: It can also appear as Pigment White 6 and White Pigment in packaging. As far as hypothetical exposure risk, the tampon would pose a more significant exposure as it is worn internally. 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.. "Organic tampons are available as an alternative for women who prefer to go this route," said Dr. Ross. In addition to being made with 100% natural cotton, the tampons don't come with any applicators, so no excess materials need to be thrown away. The virtual freak out on TikTok over titanium dioxidea natural mineral approved by the Food and Drug Administration that is used in a variety of products, including sunscreen, cosmetics, food, and toothpasteappears to have started with one video posted at the beginning of the week. The popularity of organic tampons has been on the rise lately as more and more people make the switch to all-natural products. As Dr. Eyvazzadeh points out, we just don't know either wayno matter how certain Becky on TikTok seems. We will keep fighting for the need for safer products and more thorough research! 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; Making a purchase through our links may earn Well+Good a commission. There is accumulating data suggesting an association with the EDCs (including the glyphosate found in cotton) with several conditions including but not limited to: This is a complicated question. That being said, you may choose to avoid this particular potential exposure. 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. Alexandra Scranton, Director of Science and Research. Considering each pack comes with 32 tampons, their price isn't even that bad for an all-organic product! Here's what the experts suggest Keep it simple: Things like colorants, whiteners, and fragrances are not necessary to the product, Scranton said. Likely in your daily life, you have much more significant exposures to this class of chemicals. You might be racking your brain and thinking, But what about all the studies you just mentioned. Science is complex. TiO2 was nevertheless banned as a food additive in the EU as of this month. I started switching to organic food, so why not beauty/hygiene products as well? They also like the fact that the tampons are gynecologist-approved and from a women-owned business. More: Which supplements are most likely to land you in the ER? Are We Seeing the End of Scented Tampons? "Minimal waste and perfect for everyone especially those that are extra sensitive. "[TiO2] may cause cancer based on studies done on animals, and it has been associated with lung cancer when inhaled," says Dr. Eyvazzadeh, which is why the government sets limits on exposure for workers. TikTokers are raising concern about titanium dioxide, a whitening agent, in organic tampons. We independently research, test, review, and recommend the best TikTokers are raising concern about titanium dioxide, a whitening agent, in organic tampons. 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. National Library of Medicines list TiO2 It is mined from the Earth and then processed into an inorganic solid white compound most commonlyused as a pigment in paints, food coloring, sunscreenand cosmetic products. The potential problem lies in the specific chemical. "They're easy to use, easily concealable, and give me ease of mind that I'm doing something good for the environment. In a somewhat tasteless move, some tamponbrands even tried to take advantage of the fear gripping users on the platform and decided to take advantage of the moment to announce that their products did not have titanium dioxide. And linked it to cancer and damage to the immune system when certain amounts were ingested over a period of time. To be blunt, they are worried about the possibility of something happening that has never been demonstrated to happen, Marino said. Sunscreens can have concentrations of up to 25%. Tampons are not intended to be used at any other time or . a woman on tiktok said that she "has been bleeding for 13 days, has ovarian cysts, and has to check for cancer" because she's used the L. brand tampons. Endocrine-disrupting chemicals or EDCs can act like the naturally occurring hormones in your body. Best Eco-Friendly Applicator: Tampax Pure . He is also a former United States Peace Corps Volunteer. It is important to note that studies in rats, mice and other animals are not directly applicable to humans. Because even my doctor was very confused. Titanium dioxide is in food, cosmetics, dye, tampons. Thanks, So sorry to hear of your experience it is indeed a frustrating situation. Including how tampons affect vaginal bacteria. This is L. tampons are labeled as being made with organic cotton, and the company's marketing promises a simple product: "Only the ingredients you need for the confidence, comfort, and protection you . But no matter what your period product preference, you shouldn't be worried about whether it can harm your health. What's great is that people are asking these questions, Scranton said. The FDA classifies tampons and pads as medical devices, and thus manufacturers of these products are recommended, but not required, to list their ingredients. Hundreds of Amazon shoppers love these organic cotton tampons from Seventh Generation because of their comfortable, dual-layer design that prevents leaks. While most options on this list are more expensive than other tampons you can find in the aisles of your favorite drugstore, Just's tampons are as affordable as they are eco-friendly. When you visit the site, Dotdash Meredith and its partners may store or retrieve information on your browser, mostly in the form of cookies. Bottom line: "When it comes to period products, the priority should be using products that you feel comfortable with and are accessible to you," he says. New study explores the benefits,harms. But we [also] don't have the data to support, Don't worry about this. Could you explain as to why this happened to me? One reason is that the FDA evaluates whether a tampon enhances the growth of the bacteria that causes TSS before the product can be legally marketed. At TOTM, we can confirm that we do not use titanium dioxide at any stage of our . "I have a very heavy flow, and I find that I don't have to change these too often. I am not into social media. I WOULD sue this company if I had the slightest idea where to start or the finances to get the ball rolling. ", Price at time of publication: $13.98 for 36 count. It neutralizes smell as well. These products are made from cotton and it is actually the cotton contained in these products that are the potential problem. I found a TikTok talking about L Organic Tampons and how they have titanium dioxide in them for coloring. "I have been using these for a few years now and I love them," raved one shopper. "Most tampons list their ingredients on the back of the package," Dr. Gohar says. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. In its report, the EFSA reported that they couldn't rule out the possibility that titanium dioxide caused damage to DNA ("genotoxicity")and thus couldn't establish a safe level of daily intake. I just think its important to not think that because we see one TikTok of somebody having a problem and [saying] this is what caused it to understand that thats not the most scientific way to figure out whats going on., We may earn a commission from links on this page. No rayon, dyes, perfumes, colors, or chlorine is used to make them either. It's primarily used to help make white foods appear whiter (like milk and candy) or to lengthen the shelf life of foods that are sensitive to UV light. ", Dr. Eyvazzadeh and Flynn agree that it's okay to approach the ingredient with caution. Here are 11 organic tampons that reviewers love. While "titanium dioxide is natural, meaning found in nature," it doesn't necessarily mean it's healthy, says ob-gyn and pain medicine physician Jen Gunter, MD. Titanium dioxide, or TiO 2, is a naturally occurring mineral that takes the form of a tasteless, white powder, according to the National Institutes of Health. So the million-dollar question: is it safe to have titanium dioxide in pads and tampons? And, spoiler: Its in plenty of other products you probably use in your day-to-day life. As of the time of publication of this article, Morgans TikTok as well as others on the subject with the hashtag #titaniumdioxide were still on the platform racking up views. Wash your hands before and after using a tampon. "They come in two different sizesregular and superwhich are very convenient depending on the day. Certainly, we don't have the data to support that alarmist concern. Best Organic Tampons. Made with a 100% cotton core, the company's feminine care products are produced without any dyes, fragrances, or chlorine bleaching. How Bad Is It Really to Wear a Tampon for Longer Than 8 Hours? "There is no published research available currently that has examined the impacts of vaginal or vulvar exposure to titanium dioxide." You may want to talk with your health care provider about whether tampons are right for you. There are several health concerns regarding TiO2. These [are comfortable and] do what they need to, and I don't need to worry about leaks the way I used to. 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? I would just be a very educated consumer, and I would be aware of what we're putting in our bodies. Activated charcoal benefits explained:Does it actually prevent hangovers? The FDA has found that regulated amounts of titanium dioxide are considered safe. And it would be a stretch to correlate a possible connection in rats to a true cause-and-effect in humans. The .gov means its official.Federal government websites often end in .gov or .mil. This is why we fight tirelessly for ingredient transparency and your right to know! Dr. Jennifer Gunter, an OB/GYN and frequent debunker of outrageous and fake advice online, is one of the doctors that came out this week to try to reassure individuals that their tampons were not toxic death sticks.. You can opt-out at any time. Free standard shipping with $35 orders. We all know social media is a breeding ground for misinformation and disinformation. Despite a small percentage ofTiO2 present in the product, low toxicity risk and an unsupported cause-and-effect exampleare both factors that led me to debunk this claim. The toxic substance produced by the bacteria can cause organ damage (including kidney, heart, and liver failure), shock, and even death. The decision was based on available scientific research which, although not totally conclusive, found that an accumulation of titanium dioxide in the body could possibly contribute to genotoxicity (i.e., damage at the DNA level that may lead to cancer). After August 7, the EU is banning it. Lifetime customer here. Dr. Dziadek added that if people dont feel comfortable with tampons, they can try menstrual cups. TikTok is a powerful platform thats influencing peoples lives including their physical health. ", One shopper wrote, "I used to use Tampax, but things changed as I got older and I needed something more absorbent and more comfortable. They are in your food, your clothes, your makeup, and skincare products just to name a few of your daily exposures. When Aunt Flo makes her monthly visit, some people prefer pads, while other swear by menstrual cups or tampons. And the importance of questioning what were consuming on the daily. The FDA has tested and cleared traditionally used tampons for women to use safely and with confidence.". What is great is that we are reading the ingredients on these products and asking important questions about their safety. Because of this, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists along with the American Reproductive Medicine Society have published a statement encouraging doctors to discuss environmental exposures including certain chemicals especially before and during pregnancy. Have a beautiful child. 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. Understandably, some folks are pretty mad, some are very concerned. The https:// ensures that you are connecting to the official website and that any information you provide is encrypted and transmitted securely. A recent TikTok video went viral with thefalse claim that the titanium dioxide used in L. brand organic tampons is responsible for miscarriages, cancerand a host of other medical problems. Ask them how they are ensuring the safety of their tampons and pads. I wish I could explain what has happened to you and to the others who have responded to the viral TikToks with similar stories of their own. our process. Andrea Chisolm, MD, is a board-certified OB/GYN who has taught at both Tufts University School of Medicine and Harvard Medical School. Well+Good decodes and demystifies what it means to live a well life, inside and out. Titanium dioxide is common chemical. How Bad Is It Really to Use Baby Powder 'Down There?'. Health's content is for informational and educational purposes only. AT AMAZON. Not only are the tampons made from 100% certified organic cotton, but the rounded cardboard applicators are fully biodegradable, making them a fantastic eco-friendly product. These are by far the most comfortable, reliable, and absorbent. They are comfortable and easy to use, just make sure you press down completely on the applicator before removing (it sort of 'clicks' together). It gets used in a LOT of products and its probably been in tampons and pads for a long time (just never listed on the label before). But their favorite part seems to be the fact that they are made from 90% plant-based materials. The FDA categorizes titanium dioxide as "Generally Recognized as Safe," but the scare-causing chemical has recently been banned as a food additive in the EU on the basis that experts could not. T. This summer's viral TikTok on titanium dioxide in tampons focused on the brand This is L., which was acquired by Procter and Gamble in 2019. And its important to note that individual experiences are valid. The tampons themselves are bleach, dye, and fragrance-free, and they're made with 100% organic cotton that is certified by the Global Organic Textile Standard. "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.". What we have now is some really interesting studies on titanium dioxide, showing that there's a disruption of the gut microbiome when you ingest it, Dr. Cohen said. Also, it may be genotoxic, meaning it can harm your DNA. The 2023 Complete Python Certification Bootcamp Bundle, Mourning the Loss of Addison Raes Debut Album | The Meme Machine. While animal studies give us important information, they cannot be directly generalized to people, Marino said. Find him on Instagram@dr.daignault. Still, more studies in humans need to be performed to verify this finding. The problem is, although the cotton is resistant to the effects of the herbicide glyphosate, the chemical is still absorbed by the plant. Read our, What Exposure Could Mean for Your Reproductive Health. That brings us to. And many of these chemicals have been associated with contributing to cancer and other medical problems. And remember, this is inhaled TiO2 atveryhigh levels much higher than the small amount of TiO2 in the strings of tampons. If you take a quick stroll through the aisles of a grocery store or drugstore, you'll find there's an organic option for just about everything these days, including produce, deodorant, and even tampons. Still, peoples stories on social media have left many shaken. Price at time of publication: $16 for 20 count. New comments cannot be posted and votes cannot be cast. You know why? 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. You may be surprised to learn that the FDA regulates tampons as medical devices. And performed in ways that account for different titanium dioxide levels and time of exposure. But I can tell you this cyst has made my job exhausting and totally draining chasing my toddler around. The European Union banned titanium dioxide in food earlier this year, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Foreign Agriculture Service. Tampax comes in light, regular, and super absorbencies and . It's protecting you from UV rays. Other videos on TikTok pointed out that Mars, Inc. is currently being sued for not disclosing that Skittles contained titanium dioxide. Estimated ship dimensions: 2.795 inches length x 4.37 inches width x 5.669 inches height. Myths about aluminum and deodorant, explained. Just because someone had health problems after they used something doesnt necessarily mean an ingredient in that thing caused the problem, Wallace said. Now that you know the difference between organic and non-organic tampons, if you are looking to make the switch to more eco-friendly period products, we've got you covered. Felt they had the same or better absorbency. "The potential risks of titanium dioxide vary depending on the method of exposure," says Dr. Eyvazzadeh. Read our Privacy Policy and Terms and Conditions. Media inquiries? Theres even a lawsuit alleging that the candy company Mars, which makes Skittles, didnt inform its customers about the potential taste the rainbow dangers of titanium dioxide in its product. One of the tricky things about titanium dioxide is that it can be consumed in a myriad of ways, making risk calculation difficult. Titanium dioxide might be one of these. Even better, organic tampons also typically use more eco-friendly applicators, such as biodegradable cardboard or BPA-free plastic applicators that are derived from plant-based materials. I have been researching health impacts of pads and tampons for nearly a decade, so I love having all this new ingredient info. Protective wrap stands up to the roughest of travel and yet is easily unwrapped so no time is wasted. Shoppers love that they are made from responsibly sourced, organic cotton and that their applicator is made from 92% of plant-based materials. We all deserve safe products and all you need to do is ask. Typically, "higher doses can be used topically in a safe manner," he says. And do not smoke. The rule for food items is that the coloring agent can't exceed 1% of the food's weight. Although there were also doctors and experts trying to quell the panic, like Dr. Jennifer Lincoln, they were, unfortunately, a minority. And see what they say. If youre still super worried, and I hear you, then use something else, like pads or menstrual cups or whatnot, Lincoln, who has 2.8 million followers on TikTok, said. If you are experiencing serious medical symptoms, please see the And how can we learn more about the products were using? It's also worth being skeptical of any definitive claims that titanium dioxide in tampons is super harmful. But it is becoming a controversial chemical. This disruption of certain biological pathways can lead to the development of the disease. With all these questions, we turned to experts for answers. oft-cited study that shows that chronic high-level exposure of inhaled TiO2 could be linked to lung cancer in rats, expressed concern that TiO2 particles in food additives could accumulate over time in the body, the FDA continues to allow for safe use of TiO2 as a food additive, Why Epsom salt should be a staple in your home medicine cabinet, Your California Privacy Rights/Privacy Policy, Inhalation: can cause irritation of nose and throat at high concentrations, Eyes: can cause mild irritation as a foreign body sensation but tearing and blinking can safely remove the particles. Thank you, {{form.email}}, for signing up. ", The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved titanium dioxide for human consumptionin 1966, cementing its presence in a variety of foods, including candies and other processed foods. And the data seems to [indicate] that not very much gets into your body. Both TikTok users are falling prey to the correlation, not causation trap. In the video, which has received nearly eight million views and 1.5 million likes at the time of publication, user Rachel Morgan holds up a box of 100% organic cotton core tampons from the brand L., owned by Proctor & Gamble, and tells user to stop what theyre doing and check the ingredients on the back of the box. Sunscreens can have concentrations of up to 25%. Heres What Your Bodys Trying to Tell You, National Library of Medicine: Titanium dioxide, U.S. Food and Drug Administration: Questions and Answers: FDA posts deemed final order and proposed order for over-the-counter sunscreen, European Food Safety Authority: Titanium dioxide: E171 no longer considered safe when used as a food additive, U.S. Food and Drug Administration: Code of Federal Regulations Title 21, New Jersey Department of Health: Hazardous Substance Fact Sheet: Titanium Dioxide, International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health: Impact of Food Additive Titanium Dioxide on Gut Microbiota Composition, Microbiota-Associated Functions, and Gut Barrier: A Systematic Review of In Vivo Animal Studies.