With all these questions, we turned to experts for answers. polyester, glycerin, paraffin, titanium dioxide. ", 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. We all know social media is a breeding ground for misinformation and disinformation. . 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. Sunscreens can have concentrations of up to 25%. Denver, Colorado 80205, Phone: (406) 543-3747 Lincoln said this led some to believe that. "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. We may earn a commission from links on this page. There are several health concerns regarding TiO2. Other videos on TikTok pointed out that Mars, Inc. is currently being sued for not disclosing that Skittles contained titanium dioxide. "I have been using these for a few years now and I love them," raved one shopper. And live a healthy lifestyle. Myths about aluminum and deodorant, explained, Ive written multiple times in this column. Find him on Instagram@dr.daignault. The site is secure. 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. These [are comfortable and] do what they need to, and I don't need to worry about leaks the way I used to. 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. Tampax. These options are often referred to as green alternatives and include: By Andrea Chisholm, MD Likely in your daily life, you have much more significant exposures to this class of chemicals. Thank you, {{form.email}}, for signing up. 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). An official website of the United States government, Recalls, Market Withdrawals and Safety Alerts, The Facts on Tamponsand How to Use Them Safely. "I love these non-applicator tampons," raved one reviewer. I changed them every 2-3 hours, and even then I'd feel dry and chaffed or just felt them there. This finding prompted the European Union to ban TiO2 as a food additive earlier this year, but in the U.S., the ingredient is still considered to be safe in food at the limits set by the FDA. Price at time of publication: $6.98 for 20 count. "But while no study has positively linked titanium dioxide exposure to ovarian cancer, miscarriages, or UTIs, we also dont have the science to assure us that this kind of exposure is perfectly safe either." The compound is used safely in many foods and cosmetics, but it's still banned in foods in the UK.. This is why we fight tirelessly for ingredient transparency and your right to know! 4 Mistakes That Are Causing You to Waste Money on Skin-Care Serums, According to an Esthetician, These Are the Best Anti-Chafing Denim ShortsAccording to Some Very Happy Reviewers. ", Price at time of publication: $13.98 for 36 count. Are There Toxic Chemicals in Your Tampons? 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. Titanium dioxide, or TiO2, is a naturally occurring mineral comprised of titanium and oxygen. Shipping details. But what does it mean for tampons, pads, and reproductive health overall? 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. The reality of life today is that you are bombarded with multiple chemical exposures. This is the case for period care products, even those made with organic cotton. Some experts say that there's no need to lose sleep over having titanium dioxide in tampons. ", Price at time of publication: $14.99 for 32 count. Even better, for every box of tampons sold in the United States, the brand donates 43 cents to nonprofit organizations to offset the "period tax" and help make period products more accessible to women in need. 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,. We also reached out to Proctor & Gamble, which makes the L. tampons, for comment multiple times with no response. Theres been a lot of alarmist concern, she said. These are the best organic tampons to shop for: Best Overall: Organyc 100% Certified Organic Tampons. Read our, What Exposure Could Mean for Your Reproductive Health. Is it possible todays feminine hygiene products are exposing me to cancer-causing chemicals? 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.. Since the heaviness of your flow can fluctuate each day during your period, many women keep a variety of tampon sizes on hand. 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. And it would be a stretch to correlate a possible connection in rats to a true cause-and-effect in humans. So what can you do to stay healthy and safe? https://www.ccohs.ca/headlines/text186.html, [2] EFSA (2021) Titanium dioxide: E171 no longer considered safe when used as a food additive. In 2021, the EFSA ruled that titanium dioxide is unsafe as a food additive and is suspected of causing cancer. "The potential risks of titanium dioxide vary depending on the method of exposure," says Dr. Eyvazzadeh. Because even my doctor was very confused. 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. The Beach Is My Happy Placeand Here Are 3 Science-Backed Reasons It Should Be Yours, Too. Chemistry class was a long time ago. ", Price at time of publication: $6.95 for 16 count. Including how tampons affect vaginal bacteria. Shes getting checked for fucking cancer. 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. $12.59. "There are no published studies on titanium dioxide causing excessive bleeding, infertility or cancer, so it is hard to say if it is dangerous to women's health or not," Dr. Gohar says. "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, Skittles (and its parent company, Mars Inc.), approved titanium dioxide for human consumptionin 1966. including candies and other processed foods. 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). Should you be splurging to make your body less acidic? And its certainly worth asking: Is it worth a potential risk worth to have a tampon or pad thats just a little more white before you use it? AT AMAZON. But, before you choose to leave a tampon in for an extended period, we recommend learning about the risks of and how to avoid toxic shock syndrome. When you visit the site, Dotdash Meredith and its partners may store or retrieve information on your browser, mostly in the form of cookies. To be blunt, they are worried about the possibility of something happening that has never been demonstrated to happen, Marino said. Her job is to pore over ingredient lists and other scientific studies to find out what we know about the chemicals that are in our products and what their exposure could mean. And many of these chemicals have been associated with contributing to cancer and other medical problems. For more details, see our Privacy Policy. The 2023 Complete Python Certification Bootcamp Bundle, Mourning the Loss of Addison Raes Debut Album | The Meme Machine. That environment includes where you live, work, play, and pray. Thanks, So sorry to hear of your experience it is indeed a frustrating situation. 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. Are common multivitamins worth the money? Well+Good decodes and demystifies what it means to live a well life, inside and out. ", Price at time of publication: $13.99 for 36 count. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission. And not by experts on tiktoc. 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.. ', Consuming it orally appears to be a different story. 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. However, as of 2022, the Food & Drug Administration (FDA) still . 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. "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. For example, here's the ingredient list for Tampax Peal 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]. These popular period products are perfect for women with heavy flows because they are designed to expand in all directions to prevent leaks. 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. 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 . "[P]revious studies have shown that titanium dioxide can cause alterations to the reproductive system, including reducing the ovarian follicles and leading to the formation of ovarian cysts," she says. So the million-dollar question: is it safe to have titanium dioxide in pads and tampons? There's just a lot of unknowns and I think it requires further investigation, Dr. Olivia Dziadek, gynecologist with McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston, said. They also like the fact that the tampons are gynecologist-approved and from a women-owned business. According to the brand, the tampons feature a unique design that keeps "fluids locked in the core for added security. It neutralizes smell as well. Read our Privacy Policy and Terms and Conditions. This is totally safe.. And as of March 2022, the FDA maintains its position that titanium dioxide may be safely used as a food coloring. 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.. Study after study has flagged concerns about the potential damaging effects of titanium dioxide on organs like the liver and kidney. Best Eco-Friendly Applicator: Tampax Pure . And suggested that the tampons from This Is L Inc are causing ovarian cysts. Rebecca Carhart is a Senior Ecommerce Reviews Writer covering home, fashion, beauty, and lifestyle products. The other thing that we know [about titanium dioxide is] you don't wanna inhale it, Scranton said. 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. "As an oxide, titanium is found in minerals in the earth's crust and is also found with other elements, including calcium and iron. There is some evidence to suggest that titanium dioxide may have a carcinogenic effect in some formats. Toxic shock syndrome (TSS) is rare and is caused by a toxic substance that is produced by certain kinds of bacteria. 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. How do they not see that this is a dire health issue, they play it off as if we are losing our minds. Still, peoples stories on social media have left many shaken. And that is what I encourage you all to do to contact the manufacturers of the products you use. This means that farmers could use this herbicide to kill the weeds in their fields without worrying about it harming the cotton crops. The problem is, although the cotton is resistant to the effects of the herbicide glyphosate, the chemical is still absorbed by the plant. "I stopped using tampons when I noticed they'd irritate my lady parts after use. "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.". Well, unfortunately, we just dont know if that causes health effects.There is no published research available that has ever examined the impacts of vaginal or vulvar exposure to titanium dioxide. I think seeking solace and guidance from your physician is key because they may also help clarify [and] help with any anxieties that all this information can provoke., Plan for the future: Scranton encourages people to make calls, send emails, and write reviews to the companies or lawmakers in your life. This is what manufacturers need to know that people are reading these things and asking these questions.. Health's content is for informational and educational purposes only. ", One shopper wrote, "I used to use Tampax, but things changed as I got older and I needed something more absorbent and more comfortable. This lack of data is incredibly frustrating, given that 26 percent of the global population are of reproductive age and presumably using pads and tampons on the regular to manage their cycles. I started switching to organic food, so why not beauty/hygiene products as well? 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. Organic farming typically uses more sustainable practices, plus by not treating cotton with pesticides, fewer harmful chemicals have been released into the environment. 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. 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. "Best product ever," raved one customer. So while on the one hand no study has positively linked titanium dioxide exposure to ovarian cancer, or miscarriages, or UTIs we also simply dont have the science to assure us that this kind of exposure is perfectly safe either. Titanium dioxide exposure would not be on that list. One user shared her anger after learning that the tampons shes been using contain titanium dioxide. With these there's no irritation or dryness, I honestly forget they're in. Made with a 100% cotton core, the company's feminine care products are produced without any dyes, fragrances, or chlorine bleaching. 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.. These products are made from cotton and it is actually the cotton contained in these products that are the potential problem. Here are 11 organic tampons that reviewers love. In addition, more informative tampon labeling, as well as educational efforts by the FDA and manufacturers, may have contributed to the reduction in TSS cases. Gunter also added that when products like titanium dioxide are put on fabric, the point is to have them stay on the fabric. 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. L. brand tampons use titanium dioxide as pigment in the thread that attaches the stringto the absorbent part of the tampon. 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. Myths about aluminum and deodorant, explained. Aimee Eyvazzadeh, MD. (The FDA says that manufacturers can have no more than 1 percent TiO2 in food.). It's used in sunscreen, toothpaste, some food, and it is used to whiten the string of tampons. What is great is that we are reading the ingredients on these products and asking important questions about their safety. Once that social media seed is planted, it is extremely difficult to convince people otherwise. 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. There's not much information on how titanium dioxide could affect health when used in tampons. of signs you need emergency medical attention or call 911. the she-quel and creator of URJA Intimates skincare products for the vulva and vagina. ", Price at time of publication: $12.74 for 16 count. "Organic tampons are available as an alternative for women who prefer to go this route," said Dr. Ross. 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. Titanium dioxide is common chemical. No rayon, dyes, perfumes, colors, or chlorine is used to make them either. 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. The absorbent fibers used in FDA-cleared tampons sold today are made with a bleaching process that is free from elemental chlorine, which also prevents products from having dangerous levels of dioxin (a type of pollutant found in the environment). As part of the FDAs review, manufacturers submit data including the results of testing to evaluate the safety of the materials used to make tampons and applicators (if present); tampon absorbency, strength, and integrity; and whether tampons enhance the growth of certain harmful bacteria or change normal bacteria levels in the vagina. We are committed to working for justice and equity, and are in solidarity with social, racial, and environmental justice organizations to build community, understanding and honest dialogue to address the root causes of violence, harm and hate. Another familiar one: Tampax is similar to Kotex in that these are your everyday, typical tampons. [My container] doesnt say it, but its getting thrown out regardless, because how can I consciously just be like, Oh sure, yeah, I trust you. So yeah, go check your fucking box and if you had any adverse symptoms like her, call a fucking lawyer.. Titanium dioxide is common chemical. As far as hypothetical exposure risk, the tampon would pose a more significant exposure as it is worn internally. Is the Acrylamide in Coffee Actually Bad for You? But their favorite part seems to be the fact that they are made from 90% plant-based materials. "Didn't get the weird tingling that other tampons can give you. As Dr. Eyvazzadeh points out, we just don't know either wayno matter how certain Becky on TikTok seems. "Very pleased with these," wrote one reviewer. Glyphosateis from a class of chemicals known as endocrine disrupters. Visit our press room or contact our communications director. And see what they say. Other human studies, however, have not found any clear link between lung cancer and titanium dioxide. Ease and comfort all around! 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. We all deserve safe products and all you need to do is ask. As an emergency roomdoctor, there would be many possible (and more likely) emergency room causes of excessive menstrual bleeding that I would evaluate a patient for. Meanwhile, in the US, the FDA continues to allow for safe use of TiO2 as a food additive as long as manufacturers provide evidence that it is safe at its intended level of use. Our editors independently select these products. But this amount varies by product. 4.7 out of 5 stars. Here are 11 organic tampons that reviewers love. $46 at Amazon. 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. ", 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. ", If you do decide to give organic tampons a try, Dr. Ross recommends checking the box for ingredients before buying. No applicator also means less plastic, less waste, and they're also way more discreet, and I can pack more of them into a smaller space. 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. Sunscreen can safely contain up to 25% titanium dioxide. (If you reside outside of the U.S., please simply enter 00000 for zip code), ph:(406) 543-3747 | womensvoices@womensvoices.org | 2023 All rights reserved |, Introducing WVEs New Plan for a Thriving Future. Hundreds of Walmart shoppers have given the tampons a near-perfect rating, with many raving about how they're absorbent and comfortable. ", Price at time of publication: $10 for 16 count. A viral TikTok with millions views about how tampons that contain titanium dioxide can cause cancer and other health problems has spurred calls on the platform to throw away all products that match that description. New comments cannot be posted and votes cannot be cast. 2023 Dotdash Media, Inc. All rights reserved, Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Titanium dioxide is commonly found in countless everyday products including food, cosmetics, drugs, paper and toothpaste. How Bad Is It Really to Wear a Tampon for Longer Than 8 Hours?