7 Alternatives to Talcum Powder
Talcum powder has been around for over one hundred years! Johnson & Johnson first invented talcum powder in 1894. Since then, it has been widely used for a variety of purposes. Many of those purposes include using talcum powder in our homes and on our babies.
The health risks of talcum powder, though, have become widely known and talcum has been linked to some diseases, including ovarian cancer and mesothelioma. Additionally, the American Academy of Pediatrics also advises against using talcum-based baby powders as they can cause respiratory issues that can lead to death.
Thankfully, there are multiple alternatives that can be used that will not cause the same health risks as talcum powder. Read on to find out what seven alternatives to talcum powder we found that can be used safely.
Cornstarch
Cornstarch is one of the best alternatives to talcum powder. It is easily available at any grocery store or drugstore and you can find it at a pretty affordable price. It provides the same benefits that talcum does in regard to maintaining soft skin and absorbing moisture. It is a natural ingredient that is typically used for cooking so it is very safe. Try to avoid inhaling it, though, as it can be harmful to your lungs.
Baking Soda
Baking soda is also a great alternative to talcum powder and it also can be easily found at a pretty affordable price. The major benefit of baking soda is that it is great at absorbing odors aside from also being able to absorb moisture. When using it, though, mix it up with some cornstarch as baking soda alone can be damaging to the skin and cause rashes if your skin is too sensitive.
Oat Flour
Oat flour is made up of ground oats and is thicker and more coarse than cornstarch or baking soda. You can make it yourself or buy oat flour at a grocery store. Because of its ability to soak up moisture, it is a good alternative to talcum powder. Additionally, if you have sensitive skin, oat flour is a good option for you due to its natural ability to reduce irritation.
Rice Starch
Rice starch can also be used instead of talcum powder. This alternative is not as easy to find and when you do find it, it is more pricey than other alternatives. While it has been used in face powders for its ability to retain moisture, it also has a tendency to cake up, so remember this if you are considering it as an alternative to talcum powder.
Talcum-Free Baby Powder
Most stores now offer talcum-free baby powder. It is easily available in the baby section and it doesn’t contain any talcum in it at all. This alternative offers the same benefits such as moisture retention and is usually unscented.
Kaolin Clay
Kaolin Clay is commonly found in beauty products due to its added benefits for the skin. It prevents pores from clogging and can reduce impurities and toxins from the pores. Not only that, but it also removes excess oils, all while being extra gentle on the skin and healing any skin irritation that you may have. For these reasons, this is a great alternative to talcum powder, especially when trying to treat a diaper rash.
Make Your Own
Some people are fans of making their own products to use and a talcum-free powder can easily be made! Just mix any of the two ingredients listed above and add essential oils to provide a pleasant scent to it! Additionally, essential oils have properties that may be beneficial to your skin also! Lavender, for example, is one that is known to balance the moisture in your skin and reduce redness.
Final Thoughts
With the concerns surrounding talcum powder, it is no surprise that people want alternative options while still gaining some of the benefits that they are used to getting with talcum powder. Thankfully, there are plenty of options to choose from and you may even be able to make your own, all while staying safe!
