A lot of the media goes on about ’empowering women’, which is all for the good. But rather than focus on trashy gossip and unethical fashion, it should be addressing the huge issue of ovarian cancer risks, in women who use talcum powder.
We all have fond childhood memories of cloud dusts of talcum powder after a bath. But our parents did not know the risks, today we do. Talc is an inorganic mined substance that comes from the same places as asbestos. So you can imagine when sprinkling near certain regions (and inhaling clouds of dust) what it could be doing to your body.
In the USA, there have been many (successful) lawsuits against main talcum powder brands. They refused that it was an issue. But now are removing talc, as more lawsuits (including in the UK) are coming to court. Talcum powder is also frequently found in cosmetics (eyeshadows etc). Natural cosmetics may contain zinc oxide, so wash off before letting pets kiss you!
Signs of ovarian cancer: Pelvic pain, bloating, feeling full after meals and changes in urination.
Obviously children (especially babies with tiny developing lungs and immune systems) are also at risk (including from talcosis, a pulmonary condition caused by inhaling talc).
Safer Alternatives to Talcum Powder
The truth is – you don’t actually need talcum powder. It’s used to absorb moisture and sometimes to reduce chafing and nappy rash. But there are simple alternative solutions:
- A soft organic cotton bath sheet patted gently over skin works just as well.
- Oatmeal baths are good for chafed skin. Just blend oats into a fine powder, add to a warm bath, and soak for 10 to 15 minutes. Losing weight can help bring lasting relief.
- Wear loose breathable (cotton, hemp, linen) clothes to let sweat evaporate.
- If you do use a body powder after bathing, choose talc-free versions. Corinne Taylor Body Powder is made with Bentonite clay, jojoba seed oil, chamomile flower extract and essential oils (avoid for pregnancy/nursing).
Gentler and Safer Options for Babies
Again, you don’t need to use any baby powder at all. If you do, Bijin is made with organic rice starch and colloidal oatmeal (good for eczema). Sprinkle onto folds of the neck, thighs and under arms to absorb moisture. Or add to a baby bath, to create a milky infusion.
Here are tips for keeping babies safe at bath time:
- NHS has a 2-minute video by a midwife, on how to safely bathe babies. Never leave babies alone for a second (even with older children).
- Do not use baby bath seats, these can quickly detach and drown babies, even in a few centimetres of water.
- Run cold water first (then add hot water, testing with your wrist or elbow). Keep your baby’s head clear of water.
- Don’t bathe straight after feeds, or if hungry or tired. Avoid baby oils in baths.
- Don’t use cotton buds to clean baby’s ears (the cause of nearly all infections).
For nappy rash, clothe children in natural cotton, and change nappies regularly.
Earth Conscious Baby Balm is made on the Isle of Wight, sold in a metal tin. Packed with antioxidants and essential fatty acids, it’s made with organic coconut and other oils and shea butter (not for latex allergies). Can also be used for adults on dry skin and minor irritations.
Green People Organic Vegan Nappy Cream is made with water-repellent berry wax, anti-inflammatory chamomile oil and hemp seed oil (fatty acids). The squeezy sugar-cane tube is easily recycled. Contains zinc oxide, so don’t use near pets, toxic if licked.
