Oct 20, 2026 - Cosmetics
Use of talc in cosmetics: EU classification as carcinogenic remains undecided
Talc (CAS number: 14807-96-6 / INCI name: Talc) is used in cosmetics, among other things, as an absorbent, skin-conditioning and texturizing ingredient, for example in powder products.
The further use of the mineral is currently the focus of a regulatory discussion at EU level. The background is the 2025 recommendation of the Committee for Risk Assessment (RAC) of the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) to classify talc (without asbestos or asbestiform fibres) as carcinogenic Category 1B and as causing organ damage following repeated inhalation exposure. A final harmonised classification by the European Commission has not yet been adopted.
The scientific assessment remains controversial: while ECHA continues to uphold the RAC recommendation, the UK Health and Safety Executive (HSE) concluded in 2026 that the available data are insufficient to support a classification as carcinogenic. New scientific analyses also discuss whether lung tumours observed in animal studies reflect intrinsic carcinogenicity or an overload of the lung caused by very high concentrations of poorly soluble particles. A new epidemiological analysis of the association between perineal talc use and ovarian cancer has likewise not led the RAC to reassess its position to date.
The further course of the procedure is of particular importance for the cosmetics industry: a classification as Carc. 1B could affect the legal permissibility of talc in cosmetic products. Under Article 15 of the EU Cosmetics Regulation, substances classified as carcinogenic Category 1A or 1B are generally prohibited in cosmetics unless a specific derogation applies. The concrete consequences therefore depend on the final classification and the regulatory steps that will subsequently be required.
Until a final decision is made, the scientific and regulatory developments should be closely monitored. We will keep you informed!
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