Should You Worry About Asbestos in Your Makeup?

Should You Worry About Asbestos in Your Makeup?

On behalf of Schmitt Law Firm, LLC posted in blog on Friday, September 23, 2020.

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.

Disclaimer:

The material presented in this website is not intended as legal counsel. It is provided solely for informational purposes and should not be applied to particular circumstances. Utilizing this website does not establish or imply an attorney-client relationship between Schmitt Law Firm and the site's users. For personalized legal guidance, we encourage you to consult with a qualified attorney.

Call Us Today. 816-400-1000

Tell Us About Your Unique Injury Claim

Contact

    The use of the Internet or this form for communication with the firm or any individual member of the firm does not establish an attorney-client relationship. Confidential or time-sensitive information should not be sent through this form.
  • Hidden
  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

“Ben has handled a couple injury claims for me in the past 4 years. He will fight for you and earn your loyalty and gratitude because he gets results! He knows every trick the insurance companies will try to pull, he’s five steps ahead of them. Be patient, these matters take time, but in the end you win with him on your side.”

-Allison

“Ben Schmitt service to his clients exceeded my expectation. He took extreme care to communicate with me effectively and listen with an emphatic ear. His ability to assess my situation, implement & execute the course of action gave way to my successful outcome. I strongly recommend Ben T. Schmitt not only as a great attorney but an ethical leader who cares about his clients.”

-Stephen

“Ben Schmitt is a great lawyer. His accomplishments in his career are outstanding. He helped us very successfully in our time of need. I highly recommend him as a lawyer and a fair and kind man.”

-Stacy

Scroll to Top