Health Watch (Use of Talcum Powder)

 Talc Talk 

In the department of makeup and grooming, talc or talcum powder is considered a key ingredient. However, the same is allegedly found to contain cancerous elements like asbestos, which is a serious cause for concern. Skin experts and cosmetologists weigh in.

BY PRAMITA BOSE

In hot and humid summers, when you rub a puff of talcum powder from your compact on your face, it lifts your mood immediately with its fragrance. The skin feels plain when you further pat it dry. Also, it freshens you up once you spray its stark white snowy amorphous particles on your body. But did you know that this seemingly innocuous talc reportedly has carcinogenic elements in it which could induce ill effects on your health? 

Deadly Talc 

Talc has become a key ingredient in our makeup routine over time. Almost all cosmetics include an element of talc right from bronzer, blusher, eye shadow, foundation, mascara, lipstick, face and body powder to even dry shampoo because of its moisture-absorbing power and the ability to prevent makeup from getting cakey, thick and patchy. But talc reportedly comprises traces of asbestos in it, which could cause cancerous mesothelioma and that’s worrying the medical community. 

“The research is still ongoing in the area to discover whether talc contains asbestos-causing mesothelioma. Some studies found evidence of asbestos contamination in talc-based products, while others are yet to prove it. Additionally, the potential health risks associated with talc use depend on factors like the level of exposure, duration of use and individual susceptibility. As a result, regulatory agencies such as the FDA (US Food and Drug Administration) evaluate the safety of talc-based products and the possible health hazards related to it,” informs noted cosmetologist Dr. Manali Padhye of I2CAN, a premier Pune-based aesthetic medicine training institute.

The fear about talc containing asbestos stems from the fact that both minerals (talc is a clay mineral while asbestos, a fibrous one) can occur geologically together. Asbestos is a known carcinogen and its presence in talc-based products threatens to cause malignant mesothelioma, a rare and aggressive form of cancer affecting the mesothelial tissues (covering majority of human internal organs).

“While cosmetic-grade talc is required to be asbestos-free, cross-contamination can still happen during mining. Therefore, manufacturers are expected to implement rigorous testing and purification processes to ensure their products are safe. Consumers should stay informed and choose products from reputable brands that prioritise safety,” shares dermatologist Dr. Mikki Singh, also the founder-director of Bodycraft salon and skin clinic.

According to acclaimed skin specialist Dr. Nishita Ranka, “In India, the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) plays a crucial role in regulating and guaranteeing the safety of cosmetic ingredients with certification. It is advisable for all talc makers to compulsorily adhere to stringent safety standards and comply with the precautionary guidelines to mitigate such challenges and protect consumers.” 

Wicking Power & Less Pocket Pinch

Surprisingly, talc is still present in a wide range of cosmetics despite its probable ill impact. “Talcum has a silky texture and an excellent ability to soak in moisture, making it particularly desirable for products designed to matt the skin. It is a cost-effective ingredient that makes it a lucrative choice for cosmetic manufacturers. Moreover, talc has been used in cosmetics for decades and is deeply rooted in the industry. Many cosmetic formulations have been optimised with talc and to find alternative ingredients that can provide the same performance and sensory experience could be a daunting task,” notes Dr. Padhye. Reasonably, cosmetic manufacturers are reluctant to reformulate or remove talc from their product pipeline due to apprehensions about maintaining product efficacy and consumer satisfaction.

Apart from its excellent moisture absorption property, talc remains a prevalent and unique ingredient in cosmetics owing to its smooth application, texture improvement and prevention of makeup from turning heavily flaky or peeling off. These benefits make it a valuable component in cosmetic products.

“Despite the likely health perils, the cosmetic industry continues to use talc because fishing out equally effective alternatives is proven to be taxing. Nevertheless, incessant innovation aims to develop safer and sustainable substitutes to improve the quality of product composition and better its outcomes,” claims Dr. Ranka who doubles up as the medical director and founder of her namesake clinic that addresses skin, hair and aesthetics issues with curative treatments. 

“Its soft, sleek feel as well as the affordability factor contribute to its popularity. Notwithstanding the health jeopardies, the cosmetic industry continues to use talc for its effectiveness and solid consumer demand,” argues Dr. Singh. 

Baby Skin Scare

In recent times, a reputed babycare brand was accused of containing asbestos in its baby talcum powder. Could this harm an infant’s delicate skin in a big way if not detected at the right time?

“The presence of asbestos or lead in baby talcum powder raises an alarm, particularly for infants with delicate and sensitive skin. Prolonged exposure to these contaminants or any toxic pollutant can cause severe health issues, including respiratory problems and an increased risk of cancer,” cautions Dr. Ranka.

She further elaborates that “a baby's skin is more permeable and prone to irritation than that of adults, making it more vulnerable to harmful substances or harsh chemicals. In India, ensuring strict supervisory oversight and a routine safety trial of baby products is crucial to prevent contagion. Parents should opt for talc-free powders or products that are certified to be free from noxious elements to protect their child's health.”

Dr. Singh highlights that while “asbestos exposure can lead to serious respiratory issues and cancer, lead exposure can cause developmental and neurological problems.” She too echoes that “toddlers are more vulnerable to impurities or any foreign component if their product gets tampered with. This is because their delicate skin can’t withstand the adverse impact. It is then so vital for parents to carefully choose rigorously tested baby powders sans any talc content for their wards’ secure health.”

Talking about detrimental effects on infants’ health, Dr. Padhye apprises that “lead is a toxic heavy metal and its exposure can result in cognitive impairments, behavioural issues and physical growth delays. Similarly, asbestos is linked to serious health conditions, including mesothelioma, lung cancer and other respiratory illnesses among kids. The presence of asbestos in baby talcum powder could lead to a significant risk of inhalation and skin exposure, eventually inducing long-term health complications.” 

Performers’ Peeve

Actors and performers have to put on heavy makeup with greasepaint almost everyday. Are they exposed to any damaging effects of makeup, which could be malignant in the future?

“It is true that actors and performers frequently use layers of makeup, which may also contain talc. Chronic exposure to talc for extended periods, especially if it is contaminated with asbestos, can pose serious health risks. It is therefore crucial for entertainers to use high-quality, asbestos-free makeup products and maintain a thorough skin-cleansing routine. The Indian cosmetic market offers several certified products that meet safety protocols and help minimise health risks for professional performers,” counsels Dr Ranka. 

Allergy Alert 

One wonders if people with sensitive skin, acne, freckles, eruptions or allergy-prone skin should avoid applying makeup with talc content on the face and body.

The use of makeup containing talc may pose a risk of exacerbating existing sensitivities or triggering adverse skin reactions. “Fine talc particles could potentially vex sensitive skin, inciting discomfort and inflammation. Some individuals with acne-prone skin may also find talc-based makeup aggravating their predicament as it has the potential to clog pores, which might worsen acne breakouts. Hence, individuals with pimply skin should better skip makeup products containing talc to curb the likelihood of any drastic or irrevocable consequences,” advises Dr. Padhye.

“Opting for non-comedogenic, hypoallergenic and talc-free products can help reduce the menace of a hostile outcome and keep the skin healthy. The current beauty product market is flooded with several such options,” recommends Dr. Singh.

Conducting a patch test before using a new product can aid in identifying prospective unpleasantness, feels Dr. Ranka. “Consulting a dermatologist can further provide personalised skincare tips and ensure that the chosen products are not messed with for their specific skin needs,” she fathoms. 

Not so Sporty Talc

Sportspersons are usually exposed to the sun and humidity at length. Plus, they have to always negotiate with sweat, dust and grime in the open air. Should they opt out of makeup and only apply organic sunscreens to never resort to talcum powder or any talc-based skin protection?

Sportspersons face difficulties from prolonged sun exposure, humidity and sweat, which tend to compromise traditional makeup. Talc-based products may not perform well under these conditions and could lead to blocked pores and skin niggles.

“Athletes should prioritise lightweight, breathable and sweat-resistant skincare and makeup products. Mineral-based powders and physical sunscreens are preferable as they offer an effective sun shield and sop up excess moisture without the drawbacks of talc. These products help maintain proper skin health despite an active and hectic lifestyle,” prescribes Dr. Ranka.

Dr. Singh dispenses that “suitable water-resistant sunscreens and airy makeup formulations are a perfect fit for players and contestants on the field.”

Aestheticians opine that outdoor sports and athletic activities result in extended exposure to sunlight and high humidity, making it next to impossible for athletes and other sportspersons to sample makeup products.

“Prolonged heat endurance can affect the longevity of makeup, leading to smudging, fading or caking. Moreover, perspiration mixed with the accumulation of sweat, dust and dirt can impact the freshness and durability of makeup, thus disrupting its desirable effects,” imparts Dr. Padhye.

She further endorses that “organic and mineral-based sunscreens offer a sustainably viable alternative to the traditional chemical sunscreens as they provide broad-spectrum protection against the UVA and UVB rays, thus mitigating the dangers lurking for the skin.” 

Natural Talc

Presuming that sustainability is the way forward in the cosmetic industry and considering that talc is a clay mineral, can it be then filtered from its detrimental impurities to emerge as a safe makeup agent?

“Advanced distillation methods are required to sieve impurities like asbestos from talc. Techniques such as flotation, magnetic separation and chemical treatment can effectively sanitise talc,” states Dr. Ranka.

Continuous innovation in this system and a rigid, transparent regulatory vigilance are essential to warrant the safety of the final product. Research into alternative materials that mimic talc’s intended properties and maintain its functional benefits without any related risks is also important.

“Upgraded refining techniques and quality-control measures can be employed to remove any trace of asbestos from talc to make it worthy of use as a staple cosmetic constituent,” asserts Dr. Padhye. “You see, talc itself is not harmful in nature but its asbestos content could be virulent on the health front. It is possible to produce talc devoid of its harmful contaminants, thereby making it a favourable option for cosmetic formulations,” adds the physician ahead.

FACTOID:

Green Talc

• Beauty products have the greatest market in the glamour and entertainment industries. It's time to have a shift in paradigm and think of how to source talc sustainably or produce it in a laboratory to retain its relevance in the market.
• Sourcing talc organically or developing synthetic alternatives in the workshop could help address health and environmental concerns. This approach would ensure a consistent and safe supply of talc-like ingredients, reaping the functional gains while negating the risks involved.
• Embracing green practices can also enhance the industry's reputation to meet steep consumer demand for eco-friendly products.
• Sourcing talc responsibly and exploring lab-produced alternatives or engineered materials free from oncogenic elements can help promise consumer safety.
• In India, the cosmetic industry must adapt to enhanced manufacturing processes, explore novel materials and evolve with the times. Regulatory bodies like CDSCO play a pivotal role in ensuring the efficacy of beauty products, fostering consumer trust and industry progress.
• The anticipated poisonous effects of talc could spur the industry to explore ethical and eco-conscious methods for obtaining talc. This approach contributes to multiple merits, including zero environmental impact, no adulteration and the possibility of fulfilling stringent safety standards. It also breeds an opportunity to customise as per requirement, allowing the creation of tailored formulations that cater to specific beauty product needs.
• Test-site-generated talc holds the key to ensure its consistency, clarity and safety as an indispensable ingredient in originating beauty creations, thereby preserving its monopoly in the market.

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