Talc is a naturally occurring mineral composed of magnesium, silicon and oxygen used in skincare products for its absorbent and mattifying properties. It's often used in facial powders, body powders and makeup to help reduce shine, absorb excess moisture and create a smooth, matte finish on skin. But, some have shifted away from talc products because of safety concerns. Inhalation of talc particles has been linked to respiratory issues, including lung irritation and potential long-term health concerns, particularly in cases of prolonged exposure. There has also been concern around the use of talc in the genital area, with studies that suggest a possible link to ovarian cancer, among others, in women, although the evidence is not conclusive and further research is needed to establish a clear connection. Some manufacturers have started to replace talc with alternative ingredients in their products to mitigate these potential dangers and address consumer concerns.
INCI
Talc
ORIGIN
Talc is mined from deposits in various parts of the world. It's generally extracted from underground mines and undergoes purification processes to remove impurities before being used in cosmetic applications.
SKIN TOLERANCE
Talc is generally well-tolerated on skin, but there are ongoing concerns around its safety, particularly in products like powders and cosmetics because of potential contamination with asbestos fibers and links to an increased risk of ovarian cancer in women.
SKINCARE BENEFITS
Absorbs Excess Oil and Moisture
Talc is highly absorbent and can help control excess oil and moisture on skin's surface in products like powders and makeup to reduce shine and create a matte finish.
Improves Product Texture
Talc's fine texture can create a more smooth and silky feel in skincare products to improve application.
Sets Makeup
Talc in cosmetics like loose powders and pressed powders is used to set makeup and reduce the need for touch-ups.
Reduces Skin Friction
Talc can reduce friction on skin in products like anti-chafing creams and body powders.
Creates Blurring Effect
Talc can create a blurring effect on skin to visually reduce the appearance of fine lines and imperfections.
Protects against Environmental Damage
Talc may provide a protective barrier on skin's surface to shield it from environmental pollutants and irritants.
