You might have heard the recent story about a mother who sent her daughter’s makeup in for testing and it reportedly contained asbestos. This can be a scary thought not only about children’s products, but about health and beauty products in general. What are the chances that Missouri residents might find a harmful ingredient like asbestos in their everyday items?

According to the news story, the girls’ accessories and cosmetics chain Claire’s recalled nine products nationwide after learning about the asbestos claim. However, additional testing conducted by the store led to Claire’s officials assuring consumers that its cosmetics are asbestos-free. Additionally, they said a certified asbestos-free vendor supplies the talcum used in their products. They plan to continue testing products to ensure none contain asbestos. What does this mean about products you have purchased that contain talcum?

Talcum and asbestos

First, it can help to understand that talc is a mineral that may contain asbestos, although the ingredient is used in numerous health and beauty products that you might have around the house. Asbestos is associated with many serious illnesses, including lung disease and several types of cancer.

The American Cancer Society might provide you additional reassurance, claiming that household products have not contained asbestos since the 1970s. Most people who would need to worry about developing an asbestos-related illness are those who spend large amounts of time working near the substance, such as those who mine talc or remove asbestos from older buildings.

How to protect yourself

Does this mean any product containing talc or talcum powder is harmless? Not necessarily, states the American Cancer Society. There have been concerns that using talcum powder near the genitals comes with an elevated risk of ovarian cancer. While the risk is slight and reports have varied, you may want to refrain from using baby powder or other products containing talc in those areas.

You can probably rest assured that your health products are asbestos-free. However, the mother who tested her daughter’s makeup may show that it is a good idea not to become too complacent and trusting with the items you use every day.