Published April 2026. Updated in July 2026.
Since we all can remember, baby powder or talcum powder has been a simple staple in almost every household with a baby! In fact, people of all ages pampered themselves with the silky absorbent body powder.
But, in recent years, talc-based powders have come under scrutiny, with growing research and legal cases raising questions about talc baby powder safety — including a landmark US settlement and an ongoing Australian class action, both making headlines as recently as this month.
At Biome, this is something we feel strongly about. We have always avoided talc in our baby range altogether.
Let's take a closer look at what talc actually is, why concerns have been raised, and what are the best natural alternatives?
What is baby powder made of?
Traditionally, baby powder is made from talc — a soft, naturally occurring mineral prized for absorbing moisture and reducing friction. Some formulations also add fragrance. Talc-free versions instead use ingredients like cornstarch (or Zea Mays Corn Starch), arrowroot, tapioca starch or kaolin clay.
Is talcum powder the same as baby powder?
Yes, historically "talcum powder" and "baby powder" refer to the same talc-based product — the names are used interchangeably. This has become less clear-cut in recent years, though, as many brands now sell cornstarch-based products under the "baby powder" name without any talc at all. When comparing products, it's worth checking the ingredients list rather than relying on the name alone.
Why are there concerns about talc baby powder?
Talc deposits are often located near asbestos in the earth. Asbestos is a known carcinogen, and if talc is not carefully sourced and purified, there is a documented risk of contamination. This has led to product recalls, extensive investigation, and ongoing legal cases. Some studies have explored potential links between long-term talc use in the genital area and ovarian cancer.
There are also considerations around inhalation. Fine powders can be irritating to the lungs, especially for babies and young children, whose airways are still developing.
For babies especially, where products are used frequently and on delicate, developing skin, where safer alternatives exist, is it worth using at all?
Some baby powder formulations like Johnson & Johnson also add synthetic fragrance for that distinctive "baby powder smell".
How does baby powder work?
Baby powder works by absorbing moisture and creating a fine, dry layer that reduces friction between skin folds or against clothing and nappies — which is why it's traditionally been used to help prevent chafing and nappy rash.
Is talcum powder safe for babies?
We believe, no.
Some regulatory bodies consider cosmetic-grade talc safe when it is certified asbestos-free. However, conflicting research findings and ongoing legal rulings have led many to question whether it's something worth using regularly — particularly for babies.
At Biome, we take a precautionary approach. We choose to avoid ingredients with ongoing safety questions when simpler, well-understood alternatives are available.
It's also worth noting that any fine powder — talc or otherwise — should be used carefully to avoid inhalation.
It's notable that Johnson & Johnson removed talc from its baby powder globally back in 2022, transitioning entirely to a cornstarch-based formula. While J&J maintains the product is safe and that the switch is a "commercial decision", you have to wonder why it would not stand by its product if it could prove it was safe?
Is there a proven link between talc and cancer?
There is enough evidence that many experts now treat the risk as real and plausible, especially with long-term/frequent genital use. Avoiding talc-containing powders for genital use is a reasonable precaution given the uncertainty and the potential downside.
Studies in humans have shown mixed results. However, the International Agency for Research on Cancer now classifies talc as “probably carcinogenic to humans,” based on limited human evidence for ovarian cancer and stronger supporting evidence from animal and mechanistic studies.
It’s also important to distinguish between pure talc and talc contaminated with asbestos. Asbestos is a known carcinogen with a clear link to several cancers, including ovarian cancer. Modern cosmetic talc is supposed to be asbestos-free, but historical contamination has contributed to concern and legal cases.
Bottom line:
There is no absolute proof, but there is enough concern and credible evidence that many health experts recommend avoiding talc for genital use.
Is Johnson & Johnson baby powder safe in Australia?
If you're specifically asking in light of recent news: in July 2026, Johnson & Johnson agreed to pay an estimated $5.5 billion USD to resolve tens of thousands of US lawsuits linking its talc products to cancer, and a separate class action has been underway in Australia since 2023 on behalf of women who believe their cancer was linked to J&J talcum powder products.
For the full breakdown of both, see our guide: Is Baby Powder Safe? What the Johnson & Johnson Settlement Means for Australian Parents.
Is baby powder toxic?
Talc-based baby powder isn't classified as toxic in the way that term usually implies, but it does carry two specific concerns worth knowing: the risk of asbestos contamination in poorly sourced talc, and the risk of inhalation, which can irritate a baby's developing lungs. Neither of these makes talc powder acutely dangerous with occasional use, but they're reasonable grounds for caution with a product used frequently on infant skin.
Is talc-free baby powder safe?
Talc-free powders made from cornstarch, arrowroot, tapioca starch or kaolin clay avoid the talc-specific concerns around asbestos contamination and the ovarian cancer question entirely. As with any fine powder, inhalation is still worth being mindful of — keep powder away from a baby's face and apply it into your hands first rather than shaking it on directly.
Can you use talc on babies? Is talc safe for babies?
Talc isn't banned for use on babies, but the same concerns apply — asbestos contamination risk and inhalation, which is a particular consideration given how much more developing a baby's lungs are compared to an adult's. Many parents choose to avoid it altogether for this reason, opting for talc-free alternatives instead.
What to use instead of baby powder for babies
Talc-free powders like Nature's Child Baby Powder use ingredients like tapioca starch, arrowroot, cornstarch or kaolin clay to absorb moisture and reduce friction gently, without the talc-specific concerns.
For a full comparison of ready-made and DIY options, see our complete guide: What to Use Instead of Baby Powder for Babies.
If you'd like to make your own, check out our step-by-step talc-free baby powder recipe.
Check out our non-toxic baby essentials guide with simple swaps across your entire baby routine!
Frequently asked questions
Is talcum powder banned in Australia?
No, talcum powder is not banned in Australia. It remains legal to sell, though increased scrutiny and ongoing legal action — including a class action currently underway — have led many brands to reformulate to talc-free alternatives voluntarily.
What is a talc-free alternative to baby powder?
Common alternatives include powders made from arrowroot, cornstarch or kaolin clay, which help absorb moisture gently.
Can cornstarch be used as baby powder?
Cornstarch is often used as a simple alternative, either on its own or combined with other ingredients like arrowroot.
Do babies need powder?
Not always. In many cases, breathable fabrics, regular nappy changes, and a gentle barrier balm are enough.
Why don't baby powder and water mix?
Talc is naturally hydrophobic (water-repellent), which is part of what makes it effective at keeping skin dry. But it also means it doesn't dissolve or rinse away easily — instead it tends to sit on top of skin or clump with moisture rather than absorbing into it, which is one of the practical downsides of talc-based formulas compared with some plant-starch alternatives.
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