Do You Know The Critical Link Between Talcum Powder and Cancer?

As consumers, we use Talcum powder in a variety of ways to prevent chafing, diaper rash, and to absorb sweat in certain areas of our bodies. Some people even use it in their hair to absorb oils for in-between washing freshness. But did you know that the natural Talc mineral can have asbestos in it?

The process to remove it isn’t fail-safe by any means, so we as consumers need to be careful when using such products to protect ourselves and our families. The cosmetic industry manufactures products like cosmetic face powder and baby powder using Talc, which is composed of a group of minerals such as oxygen, magnesium, and silicon. But what consumers were unaware of in the past was that it can also contain asbestos, which has recently been shown to cause cancer.

Women are most susceptible to ovarian cancer if they use talcum powder to absorb perspiration in the genital area. Another form of cancer from asbestos or talc can be lung cancer, due to inhaling the fine powder. Those at risk are Talc miners, millers, or factory workers in the cosmetic manufacturing industry.

The Cosmetic, Toiletry, and Fragrances Association (CTFA) issued a set of guidelines back in 1976 that stated, “all talc used in cosmetic products in the United States should be free from detectable amounts of asbestos according to their standards”. But, with cutting corners to fit the bottom line this isn’t always true. In my opinion… The thought is “what consumers don’t know won’t hurt us” and they push the envelope just a little bit more.

With all that being said, I’m sharing my favorite simple instructions to make your own natural body powder. Using things you might already have in your kitchen or are easily purchased in the spice aisle of your local grocery store.

Asbestos-Free Body Powder

Any extra powder can be stored in a Ziploc bag or can be given as a gift to loved ones.

What You’ll Need

4 to 8 oz. Cornstarch (depending on your container choice)

2 to 4 tbsp. Arrowroot Powder

20 drops of your favorite Fragrance Oil

Flour Sifter

What You’ll Do

• Add cornstarch and Arrowroot powders together into a bowl and mix well.
• Add fragrance oil and stir until well mixed.
• Sift powder through a flour sifter until no lumps remain.
• Store powder in a powder box or powder shaker.

Enjoy Your Handmade Herbal Body Powder, It Will Keep Up to 6 Months In a Cool Dry Place.