Talcum powder carcinogenic: Is this true?

Talcum powder is a natural product, which is widely used in medicine, food, coatings and other industries, especially cosmetics. Some studies have linked it to an increased risk of ovarian cancer, especially in women who use talcum powder in their genitals for a long time. But there are also studies that show no direct link between talc and cancer risk, is it true that talcum powder carcinogenic?

Ingredients of talcum powder

Talcum powder is mainly composed of talcum water-containing magnesium silicate with the molecular formula Mg3[Si4O10](OH)2. It belongs to the monoclinic crystal system. The crystals are pseudo-hexagonal or rhomboidal sheets and usually form dense blocky, foliated, radial and fibrous aggregates. It is colorless transparent or white, but because it contains a small amount of impurities, it appears light green, light yellow, light brown or even light red.

Talcum powder carcinogenic determination

In July 2024, the World Health Organization's International Agency for Research on Cancer announced in a paper that talcum powder was classified as a Class 2A carcinogen, that is, possibly carcinogenic to humans, but the evidence is limited. Talcum powder carcinogenic, which may be related to asbestos-like impurities contained in raw materials. The International Institute for Research on Cancer (IARC), a WHO affiliate, classifies asbestos as a Group 1 carcinogen. In the wake of the Johnson & Johnson talcum powder scandal, many major cosmetics brands announced that they were abandoning talcum powder. Revlon, for example, says it has removed talcum powder from its body products; L 'Oreal says it is looking for alternatives to talc.

With access to talcum powder

Talcum powder is an industrial product that is crushed, treated with hydrochloric acid, washed, and dried. Due to its lubricity, fire resistance, acid resistance, insulation and other properties, as well as its tendency to split into scales and special smoothness, talcum powder is commonly used as filler for plastic and paper products, rubber filler and rubber products anti-adhesive, advanced paint and coatings, and also used in cosmetic, skin care, food and pharmaceutical fields.

Talcum powder dosage restriction

Talcum powder is stable under normal conditions and has no obvious side effects, but long-term high intake may be carcinogenic. GB 9685-2008 stipulates that the maximum amount of paint is 2.0%; Plastic (PE, PP, PS, AS, ABS, PA, PET, PC), rubber and paper according to the production needs of appropriate use.

In conclusion, talcum powder carcinogenic has been recognized by international organizations, although there is no clear evidence, but in order to protect human safety, the relevant manufacturers should ensure the removal of asbestos in talcum powder, or establish strict quality and safety standards to protect the health of employees and consumers.