In a world that’s moving towards everything natural, it may seem a little odd that talcum powder is getting shunned. This powder is a natural mineral that’s been used in beauty products around the globe since ancient times. So, why then are we moving towards talc-free makeup in the 21st century?
Recently, there’s been a big question mark placed over the safety of using talcum powder on our skin. In fact, the FDA is investigating some serious accusations from medical professionals about how safe it is to use in makeup and beauty products. It’s an ongoing debate with supporters on both sides, but it’s given rise to a talc-free makeup trend.
A Centuries-Old Self-Care Solution
As far back as 3000 BC, people used talcum powder on their faces to lighten them and reduce moisture or oil on the skin. As makeup trends and technology have advanced, the use of talc has only grown. Talc is in a wide variety of powders, creams, and makeup products.
Talc is so well-loved by makeup manufacturers because it has a number of great properties. Firstly, it’s a naturally occurring mineral that can be found in abundance all over the world.
Secondly, it’s an excellent substance for absorbing oil, which makes it ideal for any product that goes on the face. Talc also has a wonderfully soft finish that is silky smooth, making it look and feel great on the skin.
The most obvious talc uses include most powders, such as blush, eye shadow, and mattifying face powder. However, it can also be found in foundation, concealer, eyeliner, mascara, and even lipstick. If you look closely, you’ll probably find that it’s listed in the ingredients of almost all of your favorite makeup products.
When Is It Bad For You?
If it’s used in so many different products and has been for so long, why is it only now coming out as a problem?
It's important to note that the actual amount of talcum powder in your product will likely differ dramatically. Lower amounts of the mineral will likely not cause a problem at all.
Medicine and health care practitioners will also note that talcum powder very rarely reacts to the skin. Most people will use it their entire lives and never have a problem.
However, there are certain times when it could be a major problem or cause persistent irritation. Use caution using talc when:
You Have Broken Skin
Products with high quantities of talcum powder will usually have a warning not to use them over broken skin. This is because the mineral can cause inflammation and infection when it gets under the top layer of your skin. If you suffer from acne or pimples, you shouldn’t use products that contain high quantities of talc.
A typical indication of talc causing inflammation or infection would be hard lumps under the skin that are red and irritated. You are only likely to get these if there is some kind of cut, abrasion, or wound on your skin. If you notice a wound isn't healing and has turned into a solid lump, it's best to stop using your skin products and seek medical advice.
Inhaling Talc
Another way that talc can be dangerous is if you inhale it. This is particularly dangerous when using it in powder form. If you’re applying talcum powder to a child to prevent diaper rash or using a mattifying powder to set your makeup on your face, it can be very easy to breathe the product in or to swallow it.
It’s highly unlikely that you’ll suffer from talc poisoning after just one or two uses, or even after prolonged use if you are only carefully using a small amount each time. You would have to accidentally inhale a large amount in one go or repeatedly inhale small amounts on a very regular basis over several years.
Typical symptoms of talc poisoning include a burning sensation down your throat, a dry cough, difficulty breathing, and irritation around the eyes. If you swallowed the powder accidentally, you could experience pain in the abdomen, as well as nausea and diarrhea.
Links To Causing Cancer
There are no direct links between using talcum powder and cancer. However, there are currently several studies researching a potential connection. The biggest issue is that in its natural form, talc can contain asbestos. This substance is known to cause cancer, highlighting the fact that natural doesn’t always equal good for you.
One concern is the possible connection between the development of ovarian cancer and the use of talc near the genital region. In fact, several lawsuits are currently underway in the USA directly related to this debate. Big brands have been heavily targeted by people who believe that talc has led to them developing cancer. There’s even a Johnson and Johnson lawsuit filed against the cosmetic and pharmaceutical giant in this regard.
As these lawsuits began to make headlines, many people started moving away from using talcum powder or baby powder on their skin. The next big step has been for people to begin demanding that their skin products be free from talc.
Moving To Talc-Free Makeup
As the debate rages, people around the world are beginning to read the labels when they make up products closely. They’re no longer satisfied to see that a makeup product is all-natural because talcum powder is 100% natural too.
People have taken to reading the ingredient list carefully and will move on to a different product or brand if they aren't sure about what they’re going to be putting on their bodies.
Some big brands like Sephora and Cover FX are making a move towards phasing talc out of their products. You'll even find that these brands are using being talc-free as part of their marketing plans as the trend continues to grow.
In the future, we’re sure to see more talc-free beauty products on the market. So, if you’re concerned about the effects this mineral can have, you can shop wisely and still look and feel good.
Meta Title: The Talc-Free Beauty Product Trend | Posh Beauty Blog
Meta Description: Talcum powder has come under fire from health professionals. Find out why this mineral is getting a bad rap, and why talc-free beauty products are popular.
