Uses and Health Benefits of Talcum Powder

Talc is a soft mineral found in nature and talcum powder is made from this natural mineral. Talcum powder is one of the most common cosmetic products that are used for several purposes. In fact, talc is the main ingredient in baby powders. Some of the most significant uses of this powder are elaborated in the following sections.

Health Benefits

Kids products: Talc is mostly used in baby products as it helps to reduce diaper rashes and irritations. Most of the baby powders include talc though excessive usage of the powder can cause breathing problems in infants.

Moisture absorbent: Talcum powder is mainly used to keep the skin dry as it helps to absorb moisture. It helps to reduce skin irritations caused due to excessive sweating in hot weather conditions.

Prevent chafing: Talcum powder is used by athletes to prevent chafing and reduce excessive sweat. It helps to relieve the discomfort caused due to excessive heat. It is also used by women to prevent chafing between the thighs.

Bedsores: It is used by invalids to prevent bed sores and skin irritations. Thick skin tends to harbor moisture and germs which can be prevented by using this powder.

Other Benefits of Using Talc

Carpets and clothes: It can also be used on carpets and clothes to reduce or remove stubborn stains. Apply the powder and wait for some time, the powder absorbs the grease and stains can be removed easily.

Ant infestation: It also helps to reduce ant infestation to a large extent. Sprinkle the powder around the house. Cover small openings, cracks in the floor and walls with talc to prevent ants.

Bed sheets: It can also be used on bed sheets during summer seasons to avoid perspiration and discomfort. It helps you to sleep in comfort and prevents excessive sweat.

However, it is quite harmful to inhale talcum powder as it can cause serious lung damage. Doctors recommend powder with cornstarch base which is one of the best and cheap alternatives to your regular cosmetics.

It is quite dangerous to inhale or ingest the powder, though no studies have proved a direct relation between the use of talc and occurrence of cancer.