Johnson and Johnson have made headlines recently over lawsuits filed against them for their baby powder formula. Their baby powder is made using talc, a natural mineral found in the earth. There is some small debate as to whether talc is in itself dangerous as it is composed of lots of small fibers, just like asbestos.
However, the main concern comes from the talc being potentially cross-contaminated with asbestos. The two minerals are found near to each other and there have been claims of cross-contamination for decades. Concerns have been raised over women who use it as a feminine hygiene product developing ovarian cancer. If you are concerned that your cancer could be linked to talcum powder use then you should speak to a legal attorney in your local area.
Talc is a fantastic product; it is fine and smooth and feels good on your skin. It helps prevent moisture and chafing and can prevent rashes and keep you feeling fresh. However, growing concerns over prolonged use have resulted in the mineral being banned in the European Union. No matter where you are in the world you should consider taking steps to stop using it. With this in mind, here are four alternatives to traditional talc.
Corn starch
When talc was banned by the EU, Johnson and Johnson’s replaced the talc in their baby powder with corn starch. Corn starch or maize starch is made from corn and is primarily used to thicken sauces or soups. It is the most widely used alternative as its consistency is very similar to talc, it is cheap and you can find it in most grocery stores.
Oat flour or rice starch
Oat flour is usually used as a gluten-free alternative to regular flour. It is made from ground up oats, although it is coarse it is also very effective in soaking up moisture.
A similar option is rice starch which is made from ground-up rice. It was actually used by women as a face powder before talc became widely available. However, it can be hard to find and you may have to order it online.
Baking soda
Baking soda is used in baking to help things to rise, such as cakes. However, there are also many potential health benefits of using baking soda. It can be used as a natural alternative to deodorant and mouth wash and can also be used to treat heartburn and itchy skin. However, it can also be quite harsh on the skin and so you should test it on a small area before using it, especially if you have sensitive skin.
Arrowroot starch or tapioca starch
Both of these options are made from South American plants and both are traditional alternatives to flour. This could be a good option if you have sensitive skin or are allergic to corn. However, as with any skin product, you should always test it on a small patch of skin first, especially if you are using it on children.
