Talc
Also known as: talcum powder, magnesium silicate, cosmetic talc, CI 77718
A naturally occurring mineral (hydrated magnesium silicate) used as an absorbent, anti-caking agent, and texture enhancer. Talc deposits frequently occur alongside asbestos, leading to contamination concerns. Inhaled talc particles can also cause respiratory damage.
1 = low concern, 10 = avoid
Risk by Usage Frequency
How risk changes depending on how often you use products containing Talc.
Low risk from occasional surface application to intact skin.
Daily powder application increases cumulative inhalation risk and asbestos contamination exposure.
Significant inhalation concern. Strongly recommend switching to talc-free powder alternatives.
Health Risks
Natural talc deposits are frequently contaminated with asbestos fibers, a known human carcinogen.
FDA testing, 2019-2020 — asbestos-contaminated cosmetic talc products recalled
Inhalation of talc particles can cause pulmonary inflammation, fibrosis, and granulomatous lung disease (talcosis).
Respiratory Medicine, 2000 — talc pneumoconiosis
Long-term genital use linked to ovarian cancer in epidemiological studies, though causation is debated.
International Journal of Cancer, 2020 — meta-analysis of talc and ovarian cancer risk
Global Regulatory Status
How talc is regulated in cosmetics and personal care products around the world.
100% of countries with data ban or restrict this ingredient
Details
FDA monitors for asbestos; MoCRA 2022 requires mandatory reporting.
Details
Permitted but must be free of asbestiform fibers.
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Must be asbestos-free; purity requirements apply.
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Must be free of asbestiform amphibole fibers.
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Must be free of asbestos contamination.
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Must be asbestos-free; strict purity standards.
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Must be asbestos-free.
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Must be free of asbestos per Safety Technical Standards.
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Must be free of asbestos per ANVISA.
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Must be asbestos-free.
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Must be asbestos-free, aligned with international standards.
Why Brands Use Talc
Absorbs moisture, reduces friction, improves product texture, and provides a smooth, matte finish in powder products.
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products in our database
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Better alternatives exist. Brands choose talc because it's cheap and effective, but safer options like arrowroot powder, corn starch, rice powder deliver similar results without the health concerns.
Talc in Product Categories
Click a category to see every product containing talc in that category, with full ingredient breakdowns.
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Safe Alternatives
What Numbrrrz Uses Instead
Numbrrrz is 100% talc-free. Our lip balms use beeswax for texture and organic plant oils for smoothness — no risk of asbestos contamination from talc.
