Talc has been relied on for decades as a filler, coater, and as a dusting agent in plastics, ceramics, paint, paper, and many other products. In its loose form, it is known as “talcum” or “baby powder.” Recently, talcum powder has come under fire as a cause of ovarian cancer. High profile lawsuits against Johnson & Johnson have increased the attention paid to talcum powder, but with no substantial evidence, talcum powder is not yet considered a carcinogen by any major medical group or government agency.
Production of talc is an approximately $100 million per year industry in the U.S., with baby powder being an estimated $18.8 million market. About 19% of U.S. households use J&J talcum powder. Talcum powder is made from talc, a naturally occurring mineral composed of magnesium, silicon, oxygen, and hydrogen. As a powder, it absorbs moisture well, helps cut down on friction and prevents caking, making it useful for keeping skin dry and preventing or relieving rashes. It is commonly used in baby powders, foot powders, and a variety of cosmetics. Additionally, many women use the powder on their inner thighs to prevent chafing, while others sprinkle it on their perineum, sanitary pads, or underwear for feminine hygiene reasons.
Talc is often mined in proximity to asbestos, a known carcinogen. In natural form, some talc contains a form of amphibole asbestos known as “Tremolite.” Before the 1970s, talcum powder contained bits of this asbestos, but for decades the FDA has considered it unacceptable for cosmetic talc to be contaminated with asbestos. As such, manufacturers have taken steps to avoid contamination.