New Study Examines Talc-Based Cosmetics for Asbestos Contamination

In late November of last year, a study of talc-based cosmetics was published in an international online journal. The study, commissioned by a nonprofit group, specifically looked for asbestos contamination. It found asbestos in 3 of 21 powder-based cosmetics, including one designed for children.

The use of talc has come under increased scrutiny over the past several years due to asbestos contamination concerns. Talc is a mineral that is mined from the earth and is used widely. It is composed of magnesium, silicon, oxygen and hydrogen. In a finely ground form, sometimes mixed with corn starch, talc is sold as talcum powder, also known as baby powder. The U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) warns that because there is the potential for contamination of talc with asbestos, it’s important to select talc mining sites carefully and take steps to test the ore.

“Talc has been used for years in countless cosmetic products and personal care items that people around the world use on a daily basis,” said Joe Frasca, Senior Vice President of Marketing at EMSL Analytical, Inc. “The FDA itself reports that questions about the potential contamination of talc with asbestos have been raised since the 1970s. Over the last several years, there have been several high-profile lawsuits against talcum powder manufacturers in the U.S.”

The scientists at EMSL Analytical, Inc. have been providing asbestos testing services since the early 1980s and offer material, consumer product and environmental testing. These tests are available to mining companies, manufacturers, importers, retailers, public health advocates, regulatory agencies and the public.

To learn more about asbestos testing of raw materials, cosmetics, consumer goods or from environmental samples, please visit www.EMSL.com, call (800) 220-3675 or email  info@EMSL.com .


About EMSL Analytical, Inc.
EMSL Analytical is one of the leading testing laboratories with 46 locations throughout the United States and Canada. EMSL is a nationally recognized and locally focused provider specializing in fast laboratory results for mold, bacteria, Legionella, USP 797, pathogens, asbestos, lead, soot, char & ash from fires, VOC’s, odors, radon, formaldehyde, indoor air quality, microbiology, environmental, industrial hygiene, radiological, food, beverage & consumer products and material testing services for the identification of unknown substances. EMSL services both professionals and the general public. EMSL maintains an extensive list of accreditations from leading organizations as well as state and federal regulating bodies including, but not limited to A2LA, AIHA-LAP, LLC (AIHA-LAP, LLC EMLAP, AIHA-LAP, LLC IHLAP, AIHA-LAP, LLC ELLAP), NVLAP, CDC ELITE, CPSC, CA ELAP, NY ELAP, TX DOH, NJDEP and multiple other state accrediting agencies. Please visit our website at www.EMSL.com for a complete listing of accreditations. In addition, EMSL carries a wide range of Sampling Equipment and Investigative Products for environmental professionals.

Contact Information

Joseph Frasca

Senior Vice President of Marketing

EMSL Analytical, Inc.

(1) 856-303-2503

Contact via E-mail