Asbestos

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral made up of thin fibres. Exposure to asbestos is tightly controlled due to the health risks associated with it.

Sometimes negative attention is given to cosmetic talc because of confusion over the difference between talc and asbestos. It is true that they are both hydrated magnesium silicates but cosmetic talc does not have the same fibrous structure as asbestos.  While talc is made up of tiny flat plates, asbestos is formed as thin fibres. It is the specific fibrous structure of asbestos which contributes to its potentially harmful effects. 

Talc used in cosmetics is very carefully sourced and controlled to ensure it does not contain asbestos fibres.  Asbestos is banned in cosmetics by the UK Cosmetics Regulation.

Read more about the safety of talc in our dedicated section cosmetic talc.