Talc vs Cornstarch Powder: Choosing the Best Product!

The talc vs cornstarch powder discussion has been gaining much interest from many people because of the filed lawsuits against Johnson & Johnson. They alleged that their baby powder product causes ovarian cancer. People try to find a substitute, so they choose cornstarch. Is it safe? Here is everything you need to be aware of!

What is Talc Powder?

Talc powder is a natural mineral that holds an important role in various industries, especially powder. This substance is famous for its softness and smooth texture, containing magnesium, silicon, and oxygen. 

Talc has moisture-absorbing properties and the ability to impart a silky texture, making it a sought-after component. It is widely used in various products such as cosmetics, baby powder, deodorants, and ceramics. 

Is Talc Powder Dangerous?

It’s crucial to be aware that talc may include asbestos, a known substance that can lead to lung cancers when breathed in. Moreover, there is another concern that using talc powder in the genital area can increase the risk of ovarian cancer. 

American Cancer Society concluded that there are mixed results of the personal use of Talc powder. Some studies stated that there is a possible risk of ovarian cancer. However, there is just a little evidence that there are other forms of cancer linked with the use of talc powder.

The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) states that talc with asbestos is considered a carcinogenic substance. Also, there is not enough strong evidence to say if talc without asbestos can cause cancer in humans.

Moreover, IARC stated that the use of talc-based powder in the genital area can be a possible cause of cancer in humans. It is based on some evidence from human studies about a connection to ovarian cancer. 

What is Cornstarch Powder?

Cornstarch powder is a white powder obtained from the endosperm of the corn kernel. It is commonly used in a variety of applications, including as a thickening agent in cooking, a talcum powder alternative in cosmetics and personal care products, and as a dusting powder for medical purposes. 

This has the same purposes as talc powder, so sometimes people use this powder as a substitute. Furthermore, it is also used to prevent diaper rash for the baby. 

Talc vs Cornstarch Powder: Which is Better?

Talc vs cornstarch powder has been a topic for several years back then because there are many lawsuits against a baby powder company. The company is using talc-based powder that is alleged as the cause of cancer. Therefore, people have been considering using cornstarch-based powder as a substitute. 

People think that using the cornstarch-based powder is safer than the talc powder. Is it true? Here is an explanation of talc vs cornstarch powder.

Basically, talc and cornstarch powder have several differences. Talc powder is made from mineral sources, while cornstarch originates from a food ingredient. Cornstarch is recognized as a safer alternative to talcum powder for baby care due to its larger particles.

Talc powder has been considered a cause of ovarian cancer when being used in the genital part, cornstarch is the substitute. However, some other studies concluded that there is no evidence of the allegation. 

With the allegation, people stopped using talc-based powder, even though there is no clear link between cancer and the powder. Nonetheless, is cornstarch safe to use?

Inhaling cornstarch-based baby powder might lead to respiratory problems in the long run. While this is primarily a concern for infants due to their narrower airways, the risk for adults is probably not absent either, he notes. 

Dr. Peily Soong, a pediatrician at Children’s of Alabama, concurs, stating that any substance inhaled has the potential to irritate the lungs. To wrap the talc vs cornstarch powder topic, it is safer to use cornstarch than talc powder. 

However, in long-term use, the inhaled powder can risk your lungs with several breathing problems. The important thing to note is don’t use the products in extra amounts, just in normal amounts. 

Is Using Baby Powder Safe for Babies?

The talc vs cornstarch powder discussion leads to another question, is using baby powder safe for the baby? As stated above, the talc and cornstarch powder can damage the lungs if it is used regularly.

The concern has been increasing since thousands of lawsuits were filed for Johnson & Johnson talc powder. However, in general, baby powder is safe to use but there are a few things that parents should know to minimize the health risk potential of using it. 

Parents should be aware of the ingredients of the baby powder they use. Even though many companies have been removing talc powder as the base of their product, parents still need to be aware of any substance contained in the product. 

Another thing is to stop applying the baby powder in the genital area. It can prevent long-term possible disease. Moreover, it is recommended to stop using the product close to the respiratory area to prevent any breathing problems in the future. 

Cornstarch will win in the talc vs cornstarch powder battle because it is safer. Cornstarch contains larger particles than talcum powder, reducing the risk to the airway. These alternatives are just as effective in keeping babies dry.

However, without the right use of the product, it can cause a serious problem. In conclusion, ou can choose cornstarch-based powder for your baby but don’t forget to pay attention to the back of the product to use it safely. 

What is the Substitute of Baby Powder?

The talc vs cornstarch powder discussion can lead you to decide to stop using any powder products for your baby. It is fine because there are some substitutes for the product. Pediatricians even recommend that parents should explore substitutes for baby powder, such as lotions or creams with oil bases. 

Instead of powders, you can choose oil-based lotions or creams to keep the baby’s skin moisturized and prevent diaper rash. Indeed, it is essential to choose a substitute that is free from harmful materials.

Moreover, you should consult with a pediatrician or healthcare professional before any new products to your baby care routine. Every baby’s skin is unique, and what works well for one may not be suitable for another. 

Talc vs Cornstarch Powder? One of It or None At All!

You should consider many possible risks before applying any product to your baby. It may result in a serious problem if you don’t see the cautions or consult with the pediatrician first. It is advisable to always have a backup product if your baby has a bad reaction to some products. 

Moreover, this talc vs cornstarch powder discussion will give you insight into the safe baby powder for your baby, which is cornstarch is a better option. Therefore, you can still use baby powder with cornstarch-base in a safe way!