Talcum powder is a super common product, but are its ingredients safe for the human body?

Talcum powder ingredients

Talcum powder has a long history of use. In ancient times, people used talc, which were often infused with scents and applied liberally to the body. In addition to helping prevent sweat moisture, talcum powders also helped in lice control.

Talc is a fine powder composed of magnesium, silicon, and oxygen, but the main ingredient  is talc. It acts as an astringent, which means that it shrinks tissues when in contact with it. Although the shrinkage is minimal, it is effective at absorbing moisture from the skin. It absorbs perspiration and reduces friction caused by clothing. The mineral also prevents heat/moisture rashes.

Talc is also a common ingredient in cosmetic products and can be found in dry shampoos and deodorants.

While talcum powder ingredients are effective at preventing sweat moisture, they can be dangerous for your health. Recent studies have shown that Asbestos-based talcum powder may increase the risk of lung and ovarian cancer in women.Furthermore, talcum powder should not be applied to open wounds, rashes, or weeping eczema. Users should also take precautions to avoid breathing dust particles. However, the Cosmetic, Toiletry, and Fragrance Association (CTFA) has formulated guidelines to protect the public from talc.

There are many alternatives to talc powder, including homemade versions that can be made from cornstarch. Unlike the commercial variety, homemade talcum powder is safe and effective in preventing sweat moisture.

Uses of Talcum powder

Talcum is an effective natural antiperspirant that can be used on the body to prevent sweat moisture. It gives off a pleasant powdery scent and helps keep the body dry and odor-free.

Talcum powder can be applied in a variety of ways. Some people like to use a brush to apply it to their skin. Others prefer to apply it with their hands. In any case, it is important to apply the powder after a shower. Be sure to use a light amount of powder, as excess residue can cling to clothes.

Many women use talcum powder to avoid chafing while wearing skirts. Many athletes apply talcum powder on their bodies to increase their comfort. It also helps prevent sores and rashes for people who are bed-bound for long periods. However, some people are concerned about the health risks of talc and talcum powder. In fact, the American Cancer Society has conducted some studies on the effects of talc on the human body.

Is it safe to use baby powder in the body?

Although talcum powder is still a useful product for controlling body odor and keeping the user dry by preventing friction irritation, it has several drawbacks because its side effects.

Talc is a mineral that has been used for centuries as a body powder and deodorant. It absorbs moisture, prevents rashes, and reduces friction. It is also great for dry skin and is effective for preventing sweat. However, it is important to remember that commercial talc powder can be harmful to your health because it contains asbestos.

The use of talc has been linked to several health issues, including the risk of ovarian and lung cancer. Talc powders that contain asbestos have been banned in the U.S. Since the 1970s, and cosmetic companies are required to make talc-free products.

Scientific reviews has shown that while talc is not a carcinogen, it can irritate the respiratory tract and the digestive system. In laboratory animals, it has been linked to tumors. Although no definitive proofs have been found between talcum powder and cancer, it should be noted that human studies are limited and need further studies to determine its safety.

Why will Johnson & Johnson stop producing talc powder?

The company faces thousands of lawsuits for talc contamination, many of which are related to ovarian cancer. The company has been sued for nearly $4 billion in recent years and has settled over 40 percent of them. In the US, it has paid out over $3 billion in settlements and awards. In 2018, a jury in Missouri awarded 22 women's $4.7 billion in damages. 

Today, there are nearly 40,000 lawsuits against the company for talc. A few cases involve malignant mesothelioma, a cancer that is caused by inhaling microscopic asbestos fibers. 

Privates companies conducted investigations, and concluded that Johnson & Johnson knew its talc products contained asbestos, but they refused to release this information. The company denied the allegations and insisted that their products were asbestos-free. The company has defended the use of old-fashioned talc powder, but the lawsuits have increased the pressure on the company.

The company has not yet been directed by the Drug Controller General of India to stop producing Johnson & Johnson's Baby Powder, but it plans to phase out talc-based products worldwide by 2023. Existing stocks will remain in stores until 2023. As demand for cornstarch-based baby powder increases, Johnson & Johnson expect its supply capacity to keep up with demand.

In the US, the company has already halted the sale of talc-based baby powder  but will continue to sell cornstarch-based baby powder. The company said it made this decision as a "commercial decision," but has previously denied claims that talc-based powder is harmful to babies.