Talcum powder was once a staple in American households—used for baby care, feminine hygiene, and cosmetic purposes. But mounting evidence linking talc to ovarian cancer, mesothelioma, and other asbestos-related illnesses has led to lawsuits, recalls, and a dramatic shift in consumer behavior. So, is talcum powder still sold in the United States? The answer is yes—but with major caveats.
This article explores the current legal status of talcum powder, which brands still sell it, recent regulatory actions, and what consumers need to know about product safety and alternatives.
What Is Talcum Powder?
Talcum powder is made from talc, a naturally occurring mineral composed of magnesium, silicon, and oxygen. Its moisture-absorbing and friction-reducing properties made it popular in:
- Baby powders
- Feminine hygiene products
- Body powders and deodorants
- Cosmetics and dry shampoos
However, talc is often mined near asbestos, a known carcinogen. When talc is not properly purified, asbestos fibers can contaminate the final product—posing serious health risks.
Is Talcum Powder Still Sold in the U.S.?
Yes, some talcum powder products are still sold in the U.S., but their availability has declined significantly due to legal pressure, consumer backlash, and regulatory scrutiny.
Johnson & Johnson’s Phase-Out
- In May 2020, Johnson & Johnson announced it would stop selling talc-based baby powder in the U.S. and Canada, citing declining sales and safety concerns.
- In 2023, the company discontinued talc-based powders globally, replacing them with cornstarch-based alternatives2.
Other Brands Still Selling Talc
While J&J has exited the talc market, other brands continue to sell talcum powder products:
- Gold Bond® Medicated Powder
- Clubman Pinaud® Powder
- Some imported cosmetic products
However, many manufacturers have reformulated their products with cornstarch, kaolin clay, or arrowroot powder to avoid legal exposure and meet consumer demand for safer alternatives.
Regulatory Actions and Recalls
FDA Investigations
- In 2019, the FDA found asbestos contamination in a sample of Johnson’s Baby Powder, prompting a recall.
- In 2025, the FDA proposed a standardized testing method for talc products to detect asbestos using advanced imaging techniques.
Proposed Rulemaking
The FDA’s proposed rule would require:
- Testing of each batch of cosmetic talc products
- Use of transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and polarized light microscopy (PLM)
- Public comment period before finalization
This marks a significant step toward stricter regulation, though talc is not currently banned in the U.S.
Legal Landscape
Lawsuits and Settlements
As of July 2025:
- Over 63,000 lawsuits have been filed against manufacturers for talc-related cancers
- Johnson & Johnson has paid billions in verdicts and talcum powder lawsuit settlements, including a proposed $8.9 billion bankruptcy-based resolution that was rejected by courts3
- Plaintiffs continue to file new claims monthly, especially for ovarian cancer and mesothelioma
State-Level Actions
- In 2024, J&J agreed to pay $700 million to settle deceptive marketing claims with 42 states
- Some states are considering legislation to ban talc in cosmetics or require warning labels
Can You Still Buy Talcum Powder in Stores?
Yes, but availability is limited:
- Major retailers have removed talc-based baby powders from shelves
- Online platforms may still offer talc products, including imports
- Drugstores and beauty supply chains increasingly stock talc-free alternatives
Consumers should read ingredient labels carefully. If a product lists “talc” or “talcum powder,” it may still pose health risks.
Safer Alternatives to Talcum Powder
Due to health concerns, many consumers have switched to talc-free products. Common alternatives include:
- Cornstarch: Absorbs moisture and is widely used in baby powders
- Arrowroot powder: Natural and gentle on skin
- Kaolin clay: Used in cosmetics for oil absorption
- Baking soda: Found in deodorants and body powders
These alternatives offer similar benefits without the risk of asbestos contamination.
What Consumers Should Know
- Talc is not banned, but its safety is under scrutiny
- Asbestos contamination remains a risk due to mining practices
- FDA testing is improving but not yet mandatory for all products
- Legal claims are ongoing, and new plaintiffs continue to come forward
- Cornstarch-based powders are generally considered safer
If you or a loved one developed cancer after using talcum powder, you may be eligible to file a lawsuit. Consult a qualified attorney to explore your options.
Final Thoughts
Talcum powder is still sold in the U.S., but its presence is shrinking. Johnson & Johnson’s exit from the talc market, combined with growing legal and regulatory pressure, has led many manufacturers to reformulate their products. While talc is not banned, consumers should exercise caution and consider safer alternatives.
With thousands of lawsuits pending and new FDA rules on the horizon, the future of talcum powder in the U.S. remains uncertain—but the trend is clear: safety and transparency are taking center stage.
References
- Join the Many. (2025). Is talcum powder still sold in the U.S.? https://www.jointhemany.com/talcum-powder/is-talcum-powder-still-sold-in-the-u-s/
- Sokolove Law. (2025). Talcum powder lawsuit updates & latest news. https://www.sokolovelaw.com/product-liability/talcum-powder/lawsuit-updates/
- King Law. (2025). Talcum powder lawsuit – July 2025 update. https://www.robertkinglawfirm.com/mass-torts/talcum-powder-lawsuit/
- Legal Case Review. (2025). Talcum powder lawsuits: Latest legal updates & claims. https://legalcasereview.com/talcum-powder-lawsuits-latest-legal-updates-claims/
- Forbes Advisor. (2024). Talcum powder lawsuit update. https://www.forbes.com/advisor/legal/product-liability/talcum-powder-update/