Monsoon Making You Sweaty? Stay Away From Talcum Powders- Dermatologist Explains
You must avoid using commercially available talcum powders as they may increase risk of ovarian or lung cancer, if they contain asbestos. Read here to know about an all-natural DIY talcum powder that you can make at home.
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During the sweaty monsoon season, using talcum powder is relieving. Talcum powder is mad from talc, which is a mineral made up of elements like silicon, oxygen and magnesium. It reduces sweatiness and also the itchiness that comes along with it. Talcum powder is commonly used as it absorbs moisture well and helps in reducing friction. It keeps the skin dry and prevents rashes. Baby powder, adult body and facial powders are common products where talcum powder is commonly used.
Why you must avoid using talcum powders
However, as convenient as the product may be, it is not entirely safe for your health. If your talcum powder contains asbestos, and if you inhale it, it may put you at risk of lung cancer, according to the American Cancer Society.
The Cosmetic, Toiletry and Fragrances Association (CTFA), the trade association which represents cosmetic and personal care products industry, issued guidelines which mentioned that cosmetic products in the US should not contain asbestos, according to their standards.
Also read: Experiencing Acne During Monsoon? Follow These Expert Recommended Tips For Healthy Skin
It has to be noted that long-term exposure to talc particles (like in the case of talc miners) may put you at higher risk of lung cancer if you inhale them. Also, it may increases risk of ovarian cancer in women who use talc regularly in the genital area.
Having said that, it is important to differentiate between the talc that contains asbestos and the one that doesn't. "Talc that has asbestos is generally accepted as being able to cause cancer if it is inhaled. The evidence about asbestos-free talc is less clear," reports the American Cancer Society.
Dermatologist Dr Kiran Lohia, in one of her recent posts on Instagram, says that while talc can reduce sweat, it may pose risks to your health. "Workers in factories of talc powder have been found to be at increased risk of lung cancer because of inhaling talc. Furthermore, women who use talc in their groin area are at increased risk of ovarian cancer," she says in the video post.