Talc

[violaine]

Is it true that talc has been linked to cancer? I used to use talc on my arms and also was about to start taking a skincare supplement that lists talc as one of the ingredients, but I'm not sure if I want to continue with both of these if there is any truth to the rumour.

[BadBob]

I think it was linked to some ingredient of cheap talk a few years ago, sorry I can't give you more info, but if you don't mind which brand you use then go for something like the baby talc, any company involved in that would make sure such ingredients were not used.

[Janetex]

It has been said that talc contains fibres similar to those in asbestos and can cause lung cancer - no idea whether or not this is true. Interestingly there is now a range of talc-free powders. However, being sensitive, we were warned to avoid commercial powders because they contain wheat, aluminium, etc. I do use zinc powder though.

[violaine]

Thanks BabBob and Janetex

[agnabeya]

Recently it was linked to Ovarian cancer - but as I understand it - the link is tenuous. Any good Cancer Research site should be able to answer this. IF you read any research that worries you in a tabloid or magazine - go to a good research site. You should get balanced answers there.

[Chazmondo]

Talc in the past I think more than 15 years ago did contain traces of asbestos. Yes completely true. The particular product I am talking about was made in China but has not been in circulation for many years. Therefore a link to Cancer is very probable, almost definate I would say.