Back to Ingredient Dictionary

THORIUM DIOXIDE

Description

Thorium dioxide, also known as thorium(IV) oxide or ThO2, is a radioactive compound that was historically used in certain medical applications but is no longer employed in skincare or dermatological treatments due to safety concerns. This white, crystalline solid is highly insoluble and chemically stable. In the past, thorium dioxide found limited use in medical imaging as a contrast agent for X-rays, particularly in angiography.

The compound's high atomic number made it effective for enhancing image contrast, but its radioactive properties led to severe long-term health risks. Thorium dioxide can accumulate in the body, particularly in the liver, spleen, and bone marrow, potentially causing fibrosis, cancer, and other radiation-induced disorders. Its use in medicine was phased out in the 1950s due to these dangers.

Today, thorium dioxide is primarily studied in nuclear fuel research and certain industrial applications unrelated to skincare or medicine. Its historical medical use serves as a cautionary tale in the development of diagnostic agents, emphasizing the importance of long-term safety evaluations. Modern alternatives have been developed that provide similar imaging benefits without the associated radiation risks.