DSM launches titanium dioxide UV filter

Parsol TX is a new microfine Titanium Dioxide UV filter, the latest to be added to the company's Paraol UV filter line. It addresses growing demands for high caliber filters as well as tackling the problem of formulation compatability often experienced with complex active ingredients.

Switzerland-based DSM claims that Parsol TX eliminates the compatibility issue with Parsol 1789 - Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane, Avobenzone - without any unwanted side effects.

Previously the combination of these chemicals has led to deactivation or discoloration when formulated with other base ingredients.

The company, which, combined with its personal care activities, is also present in the chemicals, nutraceutical and pharmaceutical fields, says that it significantly contributes to in vivo SPF, and offers an excellent transparency profile when formulated. It also has superior stability due to a complete surface treatment.

Ultimately this means that the company's latest UV filter offers a high degree of formulation flexibility, making it compatible with almost all cosmetic ingredients and as well as the company's complete Parasol range.

The launch of the ingredient coincides with demands for increasingly complex UV filters that aim to provide comprehensive protection for a range of skin care products, including anti-aging creams and moisturizers, as well as sunscreen products.

In the US demand for personal care products containing UV filters is being driven by an increasing consumer awareness of the dangers associated with unprotected exposure to the sun and other potential environmental hazards.

Most recently researchers at Wake Forest University, North Caronlina, pointed to the fact that the most important time to start UV protection is when children are very young, particularly in view of the time they spend outdoors.

Likewise, younger skins are more sensitive to sun and this also requires far more effective sun care treatments, a factor that is contributing significantly to a big expansion in the number of child-dedicated sunscreen products with increasingly sophisticated formulations.

Titanium oxide is forming an increasingly important part of these and many other types of UV protection products. Another leading chemicals player, Oxonica, has developed a titanium dioxide-based UV formula that profits from nanotechnology to up efficacy.

In 2004, the global market for sun care products reach $4.775 billion, an increase of 11 per cent on the figure for 2004, Euromonitor says. According to the market research group, growth has been driven by consumers increased awareness of both the cancer risk and the ageing effects of unprotected sun exposure, which has equally led to increasingly sophisticated formulations and marketing campaigns.