March 26, 2025
Important new details are coming to light about cancer risks from cosmetic products containing talcum powder.
The Connection between Talc, Asbestos and Cancer
At issue is the fact that so many cosmetic products contain talcum powder, which is often contaminated with asbestos. Almost all of the big cosmetic brands use talc in their products, including face powders, mascara, lipstick, eye shadow, dry shampoo, and many more. A 2023 study of individuals diagnosed with mesothelioma found that the use of cosmetic talc is often overlooked as a source of exposure to cancer-causing asbestos.
Links between talc used in cosmetics and carcinogenic asbestos have come into sharper focus in thousands of lawsuits filed by individuals diagnosed with cancer who had used Johnson & Johnson’s Baby Powder and other talc-based consumer products. Internal documents obtained from Johnson & Johnson during litigation, as well as an investigation by Reuters, have revealed that the company has known for decades that its talc-based baby powder contained asbestos.
A report by The Guardian highlighted the case of a Tennessee woman who was diagnosed with pleural mesothelioma following the birth of her third child. She’s suing talc suppliers, cosmetic companies, and Johnson & Johnson.
What is Mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is a deadly form of cancer caused by exposure to asbestos that develops in the thin tissue that lines some of the internal organs.
Pleural mesothelioma is an aggressive form of the cancer that spreads around the lining of the lungs and chest. Mesothelioma can also form in the tissue lining the abdomen, around the heart, and around the testicles. People diagnosed with mesothelioma have a survival rate of four to 18 months, although some patients have lived longer than 10 years. The current five-year survival rate is 10 percent.
What Causes Mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is caused by exposure to asbestos particles. When a person breathes in asbestos fibers, the particles can settle in the lungs, where they can cause inflammation and scarring that often lead to cancer.
Symptoms of mesothelioma include:
How We Help Victims of Asbestos Exposure
Seek justice with the help of our experienced asbestos attorneys. Our asbestos law firm has represented individuals like you affected by asbestos exposure for over 20 years, aggressively fighting the corporate giants responsible for their dangerous products. If you or a loved one were exposed to asbestos or suffered from a disease caused by asbestos, like mesothelioma, we can help.
Our Results
Historic settlement for over 1,300 survivors of clergy and adult abuse within the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Los Angeles, marking a pivotal moment for justice.
A Philadelphia jury awarded a record verdict against ExxonMobil for failing to warn about cancer risks due to benzene in its petroleum products.
Private equity firm and co-defendants agree to pay $25M in Medicaid fraud case alleging mental health services provided by unqualified providers.
That’s the first question everyone asks. The truth is it’s impossible to know. But we can tell you this. Waters Kraus Paul & Siegel has what it takes to fight against big corporate interests and win.
