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Answer: Talc (asbestos risk) is restricted (not fully banned) in European Union. The FDA still allows it in US cosmetics and personal-care products. Risk level: medium. Commonly found in: body powder, eyeshadow, baby powder.
TL;DR: Talc (asbestos risk) is restricted in the EU but allowed in the US (carcinogens, mutagens & reproductive toxicants).
Reviewed for clarity & usefulness by the BannedPantry Parent Panel
INCI name Talc. CAS 14807-96-6.
| EU status | Restricted |
|---|---|
| US status | Allowed |
| Risk level | medium |
| Where it shows up | body powder, eyeshadow, baby powder |
| CAS number | 14807-96-6 |
Talc (asbestos risk) (Talc) is a mineral powder.
It is used for its preservative, coloring, fragrance, solvent or texture-enhancing function.
Can be contaminated with asbestos; the EU requires asbestos-free talc and restricts use near the mouth/children.
For educational use only. This page summarizes the regulatory status of Talc (asbestos risk)with citations to the primary sources below. It is not medical advice. Regulatory status is not the same as a proven health effect — read the cited sources for their exact wording, and consult a doctor for decisions about your or your family's health.
Choose EU-compliant or 'free-from' formulations and read the INCI list. BannedPantry flags this ingredient and suggests safer swaps.
Talc (asbestos risk) is restricted under the EU Cosmetics Regulation (1223/2009), but it is allowed in US personal-care products.
Yes — Talc (asbestos risk) can still appear in US-sold cosmetics and personal-care products because US rules are far less restrictive than the EU's.
Read the INCI ingredient list on the back of the package. Scan the barcode with BannedPantry to flag Talc (asbestos risk) automatically.
Yes. Look for EU-compliant or 'free-from' formulations; BannedPantry suggests safer swaps when it detects Talc (asbestos risk).
Scan any product's barcode and instantly see if it contains Talc (asbestos risk) or other ingredients banned overseas.
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