"Lets talk about TALC!  Talc is a mineral naturally occurring & mined from the earth, composed of magnesium, silicon, oxygen, and hydrogen. Chemically, talc is a hydrous magnesium silicate with a chemical formula of Mg3Si4O10(OH)2. Talc has many uses: cosmetics, personal care products, food, and in manufacturing tablets (who knew). It is used to absorb moisture or prevent caking, it helps make makeup opaque or improve the product feel. What is worrisome is the largest contaminant is asbestos a known carcinogen thought to be linked to the increase in ovarian cancer. The literature suggesting this goes back to the 1960s, but no direct link or risk factors have been determined since. (maybe an interesting research project for someone). How does asbestos get in the talc?  Asbestos is also naturally occurring and both talc & asbestos may be found in close proximity in the earth.  A recent story circulated in the news about a USA tween store called CLAIRE's where 3 products were recalled after a study confirmed the presence of asbestos in their facial powder, blush and eye shadow palette. Scary stuff. What surprised me was finding out that the FDA doesn't have the legal authority to approve cosmetic products & ingredients (other than color additives) before they go on the market. We trust the manufacturer/distributor of a cosmetic to take care of this because they are legally responsible for ensuring that a marketed product is safe when consumers use it according to the directions in the labeling or in the customary or expected way.  In essence the FDA in the states have been cut off at the knees when it comes to makeup and it is our responsibility to be informed and safe with what we purchase. So maybe you know this and feel safer getting your products labeled ""organic"" or ""natural""? Unfortunately, this is no guarantee its safe either. Talc, asbestos, shoot even mercury is all natural, so these labels mean nothing in the realm of safety.  The More You Know, The More You Grow. Or you know, not die from stupid shit like asbestos. Happy Wednesday ya'll!"
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