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.
By the numbers.
1 = low concern, 10 = avoid.
Risk by usage.
How risk shifts depending on how often you use products with 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.
What the research says.
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 status.
How talc is regulated in cosmetics 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.
Details
Must be asbestos-free; purity requirements apply.
Details
Must be free of asbestiform amphibole fibers.
Details
Must be free of asbestos contamination.
Details
Must be asbestos-free; strict purity standards.
Details
Must be asbestos-free.
Details
Must be free of asbestos per Safety Technical Standards.
Details
Must be free of asbestos per ANVISA.
Details
Must be asbestos-free.
Details
Must be asbestos-free, aligned with international standards.
The reason brands include it.
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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brands use it
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product categories
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 types.
Click a category to see every product containing talc.
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What to use instead.
What Numbrrrz uses instead
Numbrrrz is 100% talc-free. Our lip balms use Organic Beeswax for texture and Organic Coconut Oil and Organic Jojoba Oil for smoothness — no risk of asbestos contamination from talc.