Talc is obtained from naturally occurring rock ore (magnesium silicate and/or aluminum silicate). In powdered form, talc acts as an abrasive, absorbent, anticaking agent, bulking agent, opacifying agent, skin protectant, and slip modifier in cosmetics and personal care products.
Sources of Exposure: cosmetics and personal care products
Health Impacts: Talc may be contaminated with asbestos and asbestiform materials, which are known carcinogens. The International Agency for Research on Cancer lists talc containing asbestos as carcinogenic to humans.