Alternatives to Talcum Powder

Problems With Talcum Powder

Talcum powder is prepared from a mineral called talc.

This is mined from rock deposits and processed in a manufacturing facility.

The compound that’s necessary for talcum powder is called hydrated magnesium silicate.

In its powder form, talc is known to absorb moisture, thus reducing body odor and body friction.

This also makes the skin smoother.

Because of these benefits, talcum powder is highly popular among women than men.

But several studies have linked talc to ovarian and mesothelioma cancer.

When inhaled, the powder can cause short-term complications like coughing, wheezing, sneezing, and long-term consequences in the form of cancer.

The carcinogenic property of talc powder is still hotly debated.

One theory is that talc powder is contaminated with asbestos, and this causes cancer.

Another theory is that talc particles can travel all the way through to the ovaries, where they cause inflammation and eventually tumors.

Top 5 Safe Alternatives to Talcum Powder

If you’ve been using talc for a while and want to switch to a safer alternative – here are the top 5 alternatives to Talcum Powder:

1. Cornstarch

You might be using cornstarch while baking.

But you can use it to replace talc powder too.

Derived from the corn kernel, it doesn’t require industrial preparation like talc powder.

This makes it a natural ingredient.

It has a nice consistency, and it soaks up the moisture pretty well for hours.

You can easily find it in the baking aisle of the supermarket, and it comes cheap.

So consider using cornstarch in place of talc.

You can use cornstarch either directly on the skin.

Or make a paste using water and then apply it to your skin.

2. Arrowroot Starch

Another food ingredient with fantastic beauty benefits is arrowroot starch.

Just like cornstarch, it is an all-natural alternative to industrial talc.

Arrowroot is derived from several plants that are native to South America.

One of those plants is a woody shrub called South American cassava.

You can prepare arrowroot baby powder by combining it with coconut oil.

It reduces odor and keeps skin smooth, just like talc, but without the possibility of developing cancer.

You can also use arrowroot starch to brighten your skin.

It will lighten the tone and keep oil away by blending with the powder.

3. Baking Soda

Baking soda is a multipurpose product used in various cases ranging from cooking to cleaning.

Known as sodium bicarbonate, it is a naturally occurring powder prepared from soda ash.

A few studies like this one suggests that baking soda has antimicrobial properties.

Thus, it can fight body odor effectively and reduce rashes in babies.

People are also using baking soda as a deodorant and applying it under their arms.

While the effectiveness is still debated, it’s nevertheless a better alternative to talc.

4. Oat Flour

Oat flour is another all-natural alternative to talc powder.

Derived from oat, you can find it at every supermarket.

While most of the benefits are the same as baking soda or arrowroot starch, or cornstarch, it provides a coarser texture.

5. Deodorant Powder

There are many products in the market that are meant to replace talc.

One such product category is deodorant powder.

This is marketed as an alternative to liquid deodorants and talc powders.

Once applied to the skin, it makes the texture soft and smooth.

Along with that, you get scented properties that last long.

Some of its main ingredients are baking powder and cornstarch.

Similarly, other commercial products can replace talc, like dusting powders and fragrance-free deodorant powders.

In the United States, thousands of women have filed lawsuits alleging the companies were irresponsible in marketing their products.

After growing cases, Johnson & Johnson recalled several talc powders.

FDA confirmed the contamination of chrysolite asbestos in the talc powders.

Right now, the company is battling a $2.12 billion lawsuit in Missouri.

Till the verdict is out and the safety around the use of talc powder is made clear, it’s best to use the above alternatives if possible.

For legal help in this matter, you must contact a class action lawsuit attorney for proper guidance.

If you or your loves ones have a claim for talcum powder damages, it is recommended to talk to our class action lawyers.

Contact our office and schedule a free consultation today.