Talcum powder is a common household product used for various cosmetic and personal care purposes. Because it absorbs moisture well, it can cut down on friction, making it a popular solution for keeping skin dry and preventing rashes. It’s used in baby powder, body powder, facial powder, and a number of other consumer products.
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If you or a loved one were diagnosed with ovarian cancer after using talcum powder, we can help you fight for your rights and compensation.
Unfortunately, talcum powder has also been demonstrated to be linked with issues such as ovarian cancer, meaning that it is unsafe for consumers and should be avoided whenever possible. To help you cut down on your need for talcum powder, this article offers five talcum powder alternatives that you can use for the same purposes but without the same risk.
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Why Talcum Powder Is Unsafe
One of the main ingredients in talcum powder is talc, a mineral made up of mostly magnesium, silicon, and oxygen. In its natural form, some talc contains asbestos, a known carcinogen substance that can cause cancer when inhaled.
There have also been studies that link talcum powder used in the genital area to ovarian cancer. From a 1971 Welsh study that found talc particles embedded in ovarian and cervical cancer tumors to a 2019 study that found a connection between using talc and developing uterine cancer and more than ten others in between, there is mounting evidence that talcum powder can cause ovarian cancer.
And while victims whose talcum powder use has caused them to develop cancer do have recourse in the form of lawsuits, it is still highly recommended for anybody using talcum powder to stop and find alternative options. To help you discover other products that you can use in the place of talcum powder, here is a list of five substitutes.
5 Alternatives to Talcum Powder
1. Corn Starch
Corn starch, or the starch derived from corn grain, is an incredibly common alternative to talcum powder. It can be used for a variety of purposes including but not limited to:
- Relief for skin irritation
- Deodorant
- Dry shampoo
- Preventing athlete’s foot
- A solution for chafing
- Detangling hair knots
- Bug bite relief
- Blister relief
- Ironing starch
- Stain remover
That being said, it is not recommended to use corn starch for treating cuts and wounds or as a makeup or oil remover, as it can lead to infections, clogged pores, and breakouts.
Corn starch options:
2. Arrowroot Starch
Arrowstarch is a starch derived from dried and ground tropical plants. It can be used for a number of cosmetic purposes, including:
- Face powder
- Body powder
- Foot powder
- Natural deodorant
- Dry shampoo
- Face mask
- Acne treatment
- Preventing chafing
It’s also very popular for use in cooking as a substitute for wheat flour for people who cannot or do not want to eat gluten. It can be used for baking as well as to thicken puddings, sauces, soups, and gravy.
Arrowroot starch options:
3. Rice Starch
Rice starch is a natural carbohydrate that is the main component of rice. When sold commercially, it is usually made of ground-up rice. It has several skin care benefits and uses such as:
- Exfoliate
- Sunblock
- Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties for anti-aging
- Reduce UV damage
- Absorb excess oil
- Promote skin and hair regrowth
- Acne and hyperpigmentation treatment
- Ease irritation and rash
Additionally, it can be used for healing wounds, treating dandruff, stiffening laundry, and as a starch for making custard or pudding.
Rice starch options:
4. Baking Soda
Sodium bicarbonate, also called baking soda, is a fine white powder commonly used for a large number of household uses. While most commonly included as a baking ingredient, many people also use it for:
- Mouthwash
- Teeth whitening
- Exfoliating the skin
- Remedy for pimples and blackheads
- Clarifying scalp
- Deodorant
- Neutralizing odors, particularly in refrigerators and garbage cans
- Air freshener
- Whitening agent for laundry
- Kitchen and bathroom cleaner
- Carpet stain remover
- Pesticide remover for fruits and vegetables
- Silverware polish
- Extinguishing oil and grease fires
- Treating heartburn
- Soothing canker sores
- Relieving itchy skin and sunburns
- Dry shampoo
- Getting rid of hair product buildup
Baking soda options:
5. Kaolin Clay
Kaolin is a soft white natural powder clay mainly used for skin care. Its benefits to the skin include:
- Absorbing extra oil
- Natural cleanser
- Exfoliating
- Soothing skin
- Evening out the skin tone
- Clearing pore
- Fighting acne
Beyond this, it also has some more uses including working as a natural shampoo and deodorant and whitening teeth.
Kaolin clay options:
- Pure Body Naturals Kaolin Clay Powder
- Halal Everyday White Kaolin Clay Powder
- ClearLee Kaolin Clay Cosmetic Grade Powder
In short, there are multiple options available to you if you currently use talcum powder and want to replace it with something less dangerous.
If you or a loved one have been a talcum powder user and have dealt with or are currently dealing with ovarian cancer, it’s highly recommended you speak to an attorney who will be able to help you determine whether or not you may be eligible for compensation. At Select Justice, we partner with compassionate, experienced attorneys to get you the outcome that you deserve. Our partners work on contingency which means that if you don’t win, you don’t pay. Contact Select Justice today and begin your journey to justice.
