What is Talcum Powder Made of

Talcum powder is a type of mineral that can be found in many products today.  Talcum powder can be found in baby powders, cosmetics such as eyeshadows, face powders and many other products that people use daily.  It was started as marketable product in the late 1800s and has been a presence in many baby products since that time era. It’s use and resulting potentially fatal effects have prompted some users to consider filing a talcum powder lawsuit seeking compensation.

Talcum powder is used in many baby products and as cosmetic products because the powder absorbs moisture.  In fact, talcum powder and corn starch were the main elements used for years to create baby powders.  This helps heal skin issues such as rashes and irritation.  So where does talcum powder come from?  This product has been on the market for generations and is still prevalent in many items today.

Talcum powder is created from talc, which is a mineral.  Talc has components such as silicon, and magnesium in it as well.  Talc as a natural mineral has been found to contain traces of asbestos, which can be harmful to humans.  Many companies currently test their talc purity before using it in their products to avoid distributing items that could potentially cause health issues.  There are three categories for talc usage.  Usage can be in certain food items and cosmetics, in a soapstone used in electrical components since talc resists acids and electricity, or for industrial purposes like lubricants.

Talc is considered a very soft mineral.  Mohs scale puts talc at a level 1 for hardness, meaning it is so soft it can be scratched by fingernails.  Talc can appear in different colors as a mineral such as green, white, or gray.  The mineral has a bit of a greasy feel to it and is virtually odorless.
Impure or unfiltered talc can contain asbestos and be harmful to people, especially with extended use.  There are lawsuits that have been filed on behalf of women who developed ovarian cancer due to use of talcum powder on specific areas of the body and for extended periods of time.  Many have warning labels now and there are companies that do test the purity of the talc before it can be distributed for human use.  There is a lot of controversy between talcum powder and its advantages and disadvantages to a person’s health. Women who used talc for genital hygiene and developed cancer should speak with a talcum powder cancer attorney because they may be eligible for significant financial compensation for their injuries.