Dangers of Talc Powder

Talc powder. We all know what it is right? I don’t believe we do or we still would not be using it, especially on our babies.


Talc powder is actually a mineral derived from talc rocks. The rock are crushed and dried before milling. Then trace minerals are extracted from the talc powder during processing; however, talc contains tiny fibers that are too small to be eliminated during processing. These fibers have a similar structure to asbestos.

Did you know, Talc powder has been linked to ovarian cancer? The Cancer Prevention Coalition in Chicago claims that regular talc powder usage in the groin area increases the risk of developing ovarian cancer. Talc powder has been found in malignant tumor cells from ovarian cancer patients.

But worse yet is the danger to infants and children, when they inhale it into their lungs. The particles are tiny enough to enter deep into the lung tissues and elicit an inflammatory response. This results in breathing difficulties, swelling of the airways, pneumonia, asphyxiation or death. According to a report made by the Nassau County Medical Center in East Meadow, NY, there are close to 50 local poison control calls per year concerning small children inhaling talc powder.

Baby powder is the most common product on the market containing talc powder, but it is also found in women's hygiene products, including sanitary napkins, panty liners and deodorant powders. It is a common ingredient in scented bath and body powders and deodorant, and can be found in small amounts in chalk, soap, flea powder, pesticides, insulation and paper.

So be an informed consumer. Do your research and decide if you want to use talc or not. I did mine and that is why I created a talc free alternative to use on my granddaughter Hailey and myself.

More information on dangers of Talc:
Cancer Prevention Coalition

Talcum Powder: The Hidden Dangers

Understand Hidden Dangers of Talc Powder