Why are beauty brands going talc-free and what does it mean for your favorite products? I asked experts

Beauty brands are increasingly labeling products “talc-free,” but experts say consumers don’t need to discard every talc-containing item immediately. Talc has long been used in powder cosmetics like eyeshadows, setting powders and blushes to improve texture, blending, resistance to caking, and to help absorb oil and reduce shine. Dermatologists note that talc is generally well tolerated and that allergic reactions are more often linked to other formula ingredients such as fragrance or preservatives. The main concerns, experts say, center on sourcing and testing. In 2019, FDA testing found trace asbestos in nine talc-based cosmetic products, leading to recalls after asbestos-related lawsuits. In 2024, the WHO’s cancer agency classified talc as “probably carcinogenic,” citing limited evidence for ovarian cancer, while recent FDA cosmetic tests have repeatedly been negative for asbestos. Experts emphasize differences in use and dose.