Talc dust can cause significant harm if it's swallowed or inhaled. Talc inhalation can cause wheezing, coughing, chest pain and difficulty breathing. Although rare, talcum poisoning can prove fatal. Because of these risks, Johnson & Johnson includes a warning on its baby powder product.
Is talc powder safe to use?
Today, talc is accepted as safe for use in cosmetic and personal care products throughout the world.
What are the side effects of talc?
- Chest pain, discomfort, or tightness.
- coughing or spitting up blood.
- cough with thick mucous.
- fast, slow, or irregular heartbeat.
- general feeling of discomfort or illness.
- shortness of breath or troubled breathing.
What kind of cancer does talc powder cause?
Talc, a mineral often used in cosmetic and personal care products, has been linked to ovarian and uterine cancer and mesothelioma.15 Dec 2020
Is talc associated with cancer?
Talc use has not been strongly linked to other cancers, although not all possible links with other cancers have been studied extensively. One study suggested genital talcum powder use may slightly increase the risk of endometrial (uterine) cancer in women who are past menopause.4 Feb 2020
Is talc a safe ingredient?
According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, talc is “generally recognized as safe” for use in cosmetics and other products.
Why is talc toxic?
Talc, when in its natural form, contains asbestos. Asbestos is a silicate mineral used in insulation and makes materials fire-resistant with its heat-resistant and flexible fibers. Exposure to asbestos is highly toxic when inhaled or ingested, as the fibers get trapped inside the body.10 Mar 2021
Is talc cancerous?
For most people, the answer is no. There is no proof that you're more likely to get lung cancer if you use baby powder or some other form of cosmetic talcum powder that's easy to breathe in. Some studies show a slightly higher risk in people who are involved in talc mining and processing.1 Jun 2021
Is talc powder the same as talcum powder?
Talc, also known as talcum powder, is a naturally occurring mineral that is highly stable, chemically inert and odorless. Today, talc is accepted as safe for use in cosmetic and personal care products throughout the world.
Is talcum powder made from talc?
Talcum powder is made from talc, a mineral made up mainly of the elements magnesium, silicon, and oxygen. As a powder, it absorbs moisture well and helps cut down on friction, making it useful for keeping skin dry and helping to prevent rashes.4 Feb 2020