CAUTION — -8 pts

Talc

Flags: S-O07

Also known as: Talcum, Talcum powder, Magnesium silicate

Kids Sunscreen & Skincare

What it is

Talc is a naturally occurring mineral (magnesium silicate) used as an absorbent and anti-caking agent in cosmetics, baby powder, and skincare products. It is the softest known mineral.

CAUTION

Talc carries a risk of asbestos contamination because talc deposits naturally occur near asbestos deposits. FDA testing has found asbestos in some cosmetic talc products. Johnson & Johnson faced billions in litigation over talc/asbestos contamination claims. While cosmetic-grade talc should be asbestos-free, testing and enforcement gaps exist.

Why it matters

Asbestos contamination risk: talc and asbestos are geologically co-located
FDA has found asbestos in cosmetic talc products during testing
Inhalation risk: particularly concerning in powder form for infants and young children
Ovarian cancer association when used in genital area (epidemiological data, debated)

The research

FDA Testing of Cosmetic Talc Products for Asbestos

U.S. Food and Drug Administration. FDA, 2020. FDA sampling and testing program [Source]

"FDA identified asbestos contamination in multiple cosmetic talc products during targeted testing, including products marketed for use on children"

Who should care most

Infants and young children (inhalation risk from powder application). All users of talc-containing cosmetic products (contamination risk).

How other countries handle it

Country	Status
United States	Permitted. FDA does not pre-approve cosmetic ingredients. No mandatory asbestos testing requirement, though FDA conducts periodic testing.
European Union	Permitted. Must be free of asbestos. Banned in powder form for children under 3 in some member states.
Canada	Permitted. Must be asbestos-free.
Australia	Permitted.

Sources

FDA Testing of Cosmetic Talc Products for Asbestos. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. FDA, 2020. FDA sampling and testing program. https://www.fda.gov/cosmetics/potential-contaminants-cosmetics/talc

For informational purposes only. Not medical or dietary advice. Consult your pediatrician. Data current as of March 24, 2026.