Talc

Talc is a cosmetic ingredient used as an abrasive, absorbent agent. It appears in about 2% of cosmetic products in our 90,000+ product dataset. It is regulated in the EU (listed in a Cosmetics Regulation annex). PubMed carries 2,420 studies of its skin or topical use.

INCI nameTALC
FunctionABRASIVE, ABSORBENT, ANTICAKING, BULKING
CAS number14807-96-6
EC number238-877-9
Prevalence2,042 products (2.2% of dataset)
Most used inMakeup
EU statusRestricted (annex )
Scientific studies2,420 on PubMed (skin/cosmetic/topical)
Monthly searches22,200

Used in

Setting Spray & Powders 16.4%Eyeshadows 15.5%Blushes 12.3%Foundations 8.1%Concealers 4.4%Sunscreens 4.3%

Frequently asked

What does Talc do in skincare?
Talc functions as an abrasive, absorbent agent in cosmetic formulas.
Is Talc allowed in cosmetics?
Yes, but it is regulated in the EU — it appears in a Cosmetics Regulation annex with usage conditions.
What products contain Talc?
It is most commonly found in Makeup products, especially setting spray & powders (16.4% of its uses).

Manufacturers with experience using Talc

Match with vetted US contract manufacturers that have hands-on experience formulating with this ingredient.