The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is proposing a new regulation that establishes standardised test methods for detecting and classifying asbestos in talc-containing products. This initiative aims to strengthen consumer safety and promote greater confidence in the cosmetics industry. This proposal is a response to growing concern in US society about the risks associated with the use of asbestos-contaminated talc in cosmetic products, an issue that has generated controversy and lawsuits in recent years.
Talc is often used in face powders, eye shadows, personal care products and even baby products. This mineral may be contaminated with asbestos due to its geological proximity. Asbestos is a known carcinogen that, when inhaled or applied, is associated with serious diseases such as mesothelioma and ovarian cancer.
Despite advances in regulation, testing methods for asbestos in cosmetic products are neither mandatory nor consistent, which has led to discrepancies in results. The FDA seeks to change this with a standardised approach that improves test accuracy and reproducibility.
Asbestos in court
The lack of clear regulations has left the cosmetics industry open to serious challenges. Two cases illustrate how asbestos-contaminated talc has impacted the reputation of cosmetic giants:
- Johnson & Johnson (J&J): This case became a symbol of the controversy surrounding the use of talc. In 2018, investigations revealed that some J&J talc products, including its iconic baby powder, contained traces of asbestos. The company faced thousands of lawsuits and had to pay millions in damages. In 2023, J&J announced that it would cease selling talc-based products worldwide, replacing them with cornstarch alternatives.
- Revlon: In 2022, Revlon was hit by the same thing as J&J when certain facial powders and cosmetic products were found to contain traces of potentially contaminated talc. Although the company denied that there were any immediate health risks, the controversy contributed to a loss of consumer confidence. This reputational crisis took its toll along with its financial problems and was one of the factors that led the company to file for bankruptcy in 2022.
Impact of the proposal of the FDA
If the proposal advanced in recent days by the FDA is adopted, cosmetic companies will be required to implement standardised tests to ensure that their products are asbestos-free before they are marketed. This will improve consumer safety and provide a sound scientific basis that will reduce legal disputes over product quality. For brands, compliance with these standards will be a real challenge, especially for those that rely on talc as a main ingredient.
In an increasingly safety- and sustainability-conscious market, this proposal could also spur the development of alternatives to talc, such as corn starch, mica and other natural ingredients. The case of Johnson & Johnson and Revlon reminds us that consumer safety must be the priority in the cosmetics sector. Implementing standardised testing methods will not only protect public health, but will also help restore confidence in an industry vital to millions of people around the world.