
Formulator’s Queries, We Answered
1. What is talc? What is its CAS number and INCI name?
Talc is a naturally occurring hydrous magnesium silicate used widely as a filler, lubricant and opacity/texture modifier in powders and many personal-care products.
INCI name: Talc.
CAS Number: 14807-96-6
2. What functions does talc serve in personal-care products?
Talc is used as an absorbent (controls shine and oil), anti-caking agent, slip enhancer (smooth skin feel), opacity/coverage agent in pressed powders, and as an excipient in powders, foundations, eyeshadows, and some skincare/soap products.
3. Is talc safe to use in cosmetics?
Safety assessments distinguish two main issues: (A) the intrinsic hazard of pure talc particles (including possible inhalation risk) and (B) contamination with asbestos or asbestiform fibres, which is the primary public health concern. International bodies and regulators continue to study talc; recent IARC work and other reviews highlight concerns about certain exposures and possible links to cancer in specific contexts. Because contamination with asbestos is the critical risk driver, regulatory and industry practice focuses on ensuring asbestos-free talc and controlling inhalation exposure
4. What did IARC / major agencies conclude about talc and cancer?
The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) recently evaluated talc (volume on talc published 2024/2025) and reported on carcinogenic hazard evaluations. IARC notes that talc that contains asbestos is classified as carcinogenic to humans; talc not containing asbestos has been assessed with more limited or mixed evidence for some cancer types. These evaluations inform cautious regulatory approaches worldwide.
5. What are the main regulatory expectations for talc used in cosmetics (U.S. / EU)?
United States (FDA): The FDA requires cosmetics to be safe and not adulterated. The FDA has prioritized testing and oversight for asbestos contamination in talc-containing cosmetics and has proposed rules and testing frameworks to detect asbestos in talc ingredients/products. Manufacturers must ensure talc and talc-containing products are free of asbestos and comply with recordkeeping/testing expectations.