Talcum Powder Composition in Cosmetics

Cosmetics Containing Talcum Powder

The current trend for cosmetic junkies is setting powder. Setting powder is a type of cosmetic placed on the face with a makeup brush or sponge to lock in foundation and concealer. The setting powder is popular for camouflaging fine lines or creases on the skin. What many do not know about this popular product is that it contains talcum powder.

What is Talcum Powder?

Talcum powder, or talc, is a naturally occurring mineral. Talc is found in everyday products such as baby powder, cosmetics, and food.

Talcum Powder Chemical Composition

In chemical terms, talcum powder is a hydrous magnesium silicate. Talcum powder is comprised of magnesium, silicon, oxygen, and hydrogen. The chemical formula for talc is Mg₃Si₄O₁₀(OH)₂.

Why is Talcum Powder Used in Cosmetics?

Talcum powder is used as an ingredient in cosmetics for its alleged benefits. Talcum powder in cosmetics creates a flawless effect on the skin by making facial makeup opaque, absorbing moisture, preventing build-up or “caking,” and improving the product’s texture.

Why is Talcum Powder Illegal in Canada?

According to Health Canada, talcum powder is listed as an ingredient prohibited for cosmetic products in Canada. This ingredient is used in powder-form products intended for infants and children and in cosmetics. Health Canada issued A cautionary statement about the alleged harmful effect of talcum powder. The statement warns consumers to keep the ingredient out of children’s reach and away from a child’s face to avoid inhalation. If this product is inhaled, it can cause difficulties in breathing.

Is Talcum Powder Contaminated by Asbestos Fibers?

The answer is yes. Some talcum powders may contain asbestos, a naturally occurring silicate mineral like talc but have a different crystal structure. Unlike talcum powder, asbestos is listed as a known carcinogen by the United States Federal Food and Drug Administration (FDA). According to the Environmental Working Group’s Skin Deep website, asbestiform fibers have been linked to talcum powder. This website has listed asbestiform fibers as a known human carcinogen due to its concern about non-reproductive organ system toxicity. The area of concern that asbestiform fibers appose is to the respiratory system.

FDA Asbestos Fibers in Cosmetics Survey

The FDA conducted a survey of products created by cosmetic talc suppliers from September 28, 2009, to September 27, 2010. The FDA contract laboratory contacted suppliers identified in the 2008 edition of the International Cosmetic Dictionary and Handbook. Two other suppliers were identified by using an online search engine. Only four out of the nine suppliers found complied with the survey request.

The FDA covered the study in a broad spectrum by identifying products for testing listed by price range from low, medium, and high. The FDA selected 34 talc-containing cosmetic products for the survey. The products used in the study included:

blush
body powder
eye shadow
facial powder
foundation

These products were bought from metropolitan area retail stores in Washington, D.C.

The survey did not find traces or structures of asbestos fibers in any cosmetic products containing talcum powder or cosmetic-grade raw material talcum powder. The study’s results were limited due to the number of products tested and the only four of nine talc suppliers that agreed to submit samples. The FDA did find these results to be informative. However, the conclusion of this survey did not confirm that a majority or even all of the cosmetic products that contain talc sold in the United States today are asbestos-free.

Are Your Cosmetics Making You Sick?

When shopping for cosmetics, always read the product ingredient label. Some ingredients used in cosmetics may cause harm to some of its consumers. If you find that certain cosmetic products are affecting your skin’s biology, it’s time to schedule an appointment with a dermatologist. A dermatologist is a doctor that specializes in the treatment of hair, mucous membranes, nails, and skin. A visit to your local dermatologist can assist you in choosing products that are found suitable for your unique skin type. A dermatologist may also help you by offering a list of ingredients in cosmetic products that may lead to dermatological injuries through extended use.

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Sacramento Talcum Powder Injury Attorney

I’m Ed Smith, a Sacramento talcum powder injury attorney. If you or a family member has been diagnosed with an illness using talcum powder products, please contact me at (916) 921-6400 or toll-free at (800) 404-5400.

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