Talcum powder has been a household staple for decades, used in baby care, feminine hygiene, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals. But growing evidence linking talc to ovarian cancer, mesothelioma, and other asbestos-related illnesses has led to multiple product recalls—most notably by Johnson & Johnson. If you’re wondering whether you or a loved one used a recalled talc product, this guide will help you identify affected brands, batch numbers, and exposure risks.
Why Talc Products Were Recalled
Talc is a naturally occurring mineral often found near asbestos deposits. When talc is mined and processed without sufficient purification, it can become contaminated with asbestos—a known carcinogen. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has conducted multiple tests since 2018, confirming asbestos contamination in several cosmetic and personal care products.
Key Reasons for Recall:
- FDA testing found asbestos in talc-based products
- Independent labs confirmed contamination in baby powders and cosmetics
- Consumer complaints and lawsuits prompted regulatory action
- Scientific studies linked talc use to cancer diagnoses
Major Talc Product Recalls
Johnson & Johnson Baby Powder (2019)
- Recall Date: October 18, 2019
- Affected Lot: #22318RB
- Reason: FDA found asbestos in a tested sample
- Retailers Involved: Walmart, CVS, Rite Aid pulled 22-ounce bottles from shelves
J&J later discontinued talc-based baby powder in the U.S. and globally by 2023, replacing it with cornstarch-based alternatives.
Dynacare Baby Powder (2024)
- Recall Date: September 26, 2024
- Affected Lot: B051 (14-ounce bottles)
- Reason: Routine FDA testing found asbestos contamination
Other Products Flagged by FDA (2023–2024)
The FDA tested dozens of talc-containing cosmetics and personal care items, including:
- Eyeshadows
- Blushes
- Body powders
- Products marketed to children and women of color
Results were published in April 2024, with detailed batch numbers and findings available on the FDA’s talc testing summary page.
How to Check If You Used a Recalled Product
1. Review Product Packaging
Look for:
- Brand name
- Product name
- Size and format (e.g., 22-ounce bottle)
- Batch or lot number (usually printed near the barcode or bottom of the container)
If your product matches a recalled batch, stop using it immediately and consult a healthcare provider.
2. Check Ingredient Labels
Talc may appear under different names:
- Talc
- Talcum powder
- Magnesium silicate
- Cosmetic talc
- Hydrated magnesium silicate
If talc is listed and the product was manufactured before 2023, it may carry a higher risk of contamination.
3. Search FDA Recall Database
Visit the FDA’s Cosmetics Recalls page and search by product name or manufacturer. You can also review the agency’s 2023–2024 testing reports for detailed findings.
4. Use Consumer Safety Tools
Apps like EWG’s Skin Deep or Think Dirty allow you to scan barcodes and check for talc and other hazardous ingredients.
Common Products That May Contain Talc
- Baby powders (especially pre-2023 formulations)
- Body powders and feminine hygiene powders
- Eyeshadow, blush, and pressed powders
- Deodorants and dry shampoos
- Pharmaceuticals (as inactive fillers)4
If you used these products regularly—especially in the genital area—you may be at increased risk for talc-related illnesses.
What to Do If You Used a Recalled Talc Product
1. Stop Use Immediately
Discontinue use of any talc-based product from a recalled batch or with questionable safety.
2. Consult a Healthcare Provider
If you’ve experienced symptoms such as:
- Pelvic pain
- Abdominal swelling
- Respiratory issues
- Unexplained weight loss
Ask your doctor about screening for ovarian cancer or mesothelioma.
3. Preserve the Product
If possible, keep the container, packaging, and receipts. These may be useful in a legal claim.
4. Contact an Attorney
You may be eligible to file a talcum powder lawsuit if:
- You were diagnosed with ovarian cancer, mesothelioma, or another talc-related illness
- You used a recalled or contaminated talc product regularly
- You have medical records and product history to support your claim
Many law firms offer free consultations and work on a contingency basis.
Final Thoughts
Talc product recalls have affected thousands of consumers nationwide. If you used Johnson & Johnson’s Baby Powder, Dynacare Baby Powder, or other talc-based cosmetics before 2023, you may have been exposed to asbestos-contaminated products. By checking batch numbers, ingredient labels, and FDA reports, you can determine whether you used a recalled item—and take steps to protect your health and legal rights.
References
- Drugwatch. (2025). Talcum powder recall | Johnson’s Baby Powder recall. https://www.drugwatch.com/talcum-powder/recalls/
- FDA. (2024). Talc | FDA testing of talc-containing cosmetic products for asbestos. https://www.fda.gov/cosmetics/cosmetic-ingredients/talc
- Join the Many. (2025). How to check if your products contain talc. https://www.jointhemany.com/talcum-powder/check-if-products-contain-talc/
- Select Justice. (2025). These common products contain talcum powder. https://www.selectjustice.com/talcum-powder/these-common-products-contain-talcum-powder
- US Mesothelioma Law. (2024). How do I know if talc is asbestos-free? https://www.usmesotheliomalaw.com/blog/how-do-i-know-if-talc-is-asbestos-free/