Top Cosmetic Brands Seek to Remove Talc Powder from Products

A Reuters exclusive report published on June 9, 2020 reveals that three leading cosmetic brands in the United States are seeking to remove the use of talc in their products. According to the report, L’Oréal, Chanel, and Revlon are seeking to find alternatives for or remove talc from many of their products. This change comes as many lawsuits are being filed against other companies alleging that long-term use of talc contaminated with asbestos contributed to the development of cancer.

Details of the Talc Removal

Court documents reviewed by Reuters reveal that Chanel removed talc from several of their products, including a face powder and body powder. While the company is taking steps to remove talc from their merchandise, several Chanel products still contain talc. This includes a Chanel eye shadow, blush and pressed powder. Similarly, Revlon removed the use of talc in their body products but did not state a specific reason why the mineral was removed.

Additionally, L’Oréal is currently looking for an alternative to talc in many of the company’s products. In a statement to Reuters, a L’Oréal spokesperson stated that they are currently looking for a talc replacement but could not find and alternative that works in the same way talc does.

Talc in Other Products

The change to L’Oréal, Chanel, and Revlon products is similar to a recent action taken by the medical device and pharmaceutical company Johnson & Johnson. On May 19, 2020, Johnson & Johnson announced that they plan to discontinue the sale of talc-based baby powder in the United States and Canada.

Additionally, other companies have previously shifted away from the use of talc in merchandise. This includes the personal care company Nivea, which began to use corn starch as an alternative to talc in 2018. However, not all cosmetic and personal companies are removing talc from their products. The companies Avon and makers of Gold Bond powder both continue to use talc in their products despite lawsuits filed against the companies.

Contact a Product Liability Lawyer Today

If you or a loved one used a product containing talc and later developed cancer, you may be entitled to compensation. An experienced product liability attorney from the Whitley Law Firm could examine the specifics of your case and advise you on your options. To speak to one of our knowledgeable product liability lawyers, call us today.