‘Lets talc about it’ – As a makeup artist, I’m a bit frustrated with myself for assuming that talc was no longer widely used in cosmetics. After all, the harmful effects of talc were brought to light in 2016 when a well-known baby powder brand faced lawsuits due to links between their talcum powder and ovarian cancer. It’s a reminder that you should never make assumptions—perhaps I just ignored the issue, thinking it had already been resolved.
I come from a time when talc was an everyday part of life. After a bath, we’d use so much talc that it left footprints on the bathroom floor, like walking through snow. And who could forget those lavender-scented talc gifts from Granny? (Thanks, Gran!) When I trained as a beauty therapist decades ago—yes, it’s been a while—we used hot beeswax for waxing and prepped the area with surgical spirit and talc to ensure it was clean and dry. Talc was also a staple during nappy changes.
Like many things in life, our understanding evolves as new information comes to light.
While I use this platform to share my work, I also see it as a space to stay informed and keep up with industry changes. I’m not an expert or a scientist, but I try to pass along any information I learn in the hope of raising awareness.
What is Talc
Talc, or magnesium silicate, is made up of finely ground particles of stone. Because it originates in the ground, and is a mined product, it can be contaminated with other substances. In its raw state, for instance, talc contains asbestos. it is one of the most commonly found ingredients in powdered cosmetics. Most eyeshadows, bronzers, and setting powders use it for its water and oil-absorbing properties. It is a soft mineral that gives make-up a silky texture that makes it easier to apply. Talc also absorbs oil, prevents caking and makes facial make-up more translucent. Cosmetic uses of talc go back centuries. Egyptians used the mineral to lighten their skin. The Chinese made face powders from rice powder ,ground talc and kaolin. Cosmetics is a multibillion-pound industry today, and one that still relies heavily on the use of talc.
What are the health risks of talc and what should we know
While talc is a naturally occurring mineral and is considered safe on its own, the concern lies in its potential contamination with asbestos. Asbestos is classified as a known human carcinogen, with strong evidence linking it to serious illnesses like mesothelioma and cancers of the lung, larynx, and ovary. The issue arises because talc and asbestos are often found near each other during mining, making it challenging to guarantee that talc is 100% free of asbestos.
From what I’ve gathered, the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) doesn’t enforce strict regulations on the use of talc in cosmetic products. However, many large makeup companies conduct their own rigorous testing, and in the UK, the Cosmetic, Toiletry & Perfumery Association (CTPA) provides guidance on cosmetic regulations, including the use of talc. According to the CTPA, the talc used in cosmetics is purified and refined to ensure high purity and to be free from asbestos.
Talc mining
Talc isnt just a potential human hazzard. Talc mining generates substantial waste, including overburden, discarded ore, and tailings. The disposal of mining waste poses challenges in terms of land use and can contaminate nearby ecosystems. The Econimist reported: Demand for talc for cosmetic uses is, according to many reports, being met by illegal mining in animal sanctuaries, and in particular the destruction of the Indian tiger’s habitat.
Talc used in Make up
My assumption of talc use in todays make-up manufacturing was completely wrong. So many of the bigger and best known brands are still using talc in some or all of their products. Talc should be listed in the list of ingredients for each product. There are many websites and blogs that can inform you about talc use and in which products you will find it. The good news is there are many brands that do not use talc in any of their products. I will list a few.
- Ilia
- Lisa Eldridge
- Haus Labs
- Milk
- Lawless
- Glossier
- RMS Beauty
- Saie
- Merit
Conclusion
Some say that cosmetic talc is safe because it’s subject to strict laws in the UK and has a long history of safe use and talc in its pure form is safe. However, others acknowledge that asbestos can be present in talc due to studies that suggest a possible increase in Ovarian Cancer and Pertoneal Mesothlioma a rare and incurable cancer caused from asbestos exposure. I don’t want to be alarmist, but if we know the facts we can make informed choices in what we use on our face and body. I am now more aware and in future will check the labels before I buy.
Photos a selection from free Google images –Title image AI generated
Karens Workshops and One 2 Ones
The Graceful Disgraceful Make up Experience is for small private groups (6) of women 40+, so grab a group of friends and book this fabulous self care workshop that celebrates women, guiding them through the early challenges of ageing from 40s to menopause and beyond. Booking now for November (click link below for details)
