Talc
A cosmetic ingredient used as abrasive, absorbent, anticaking in skincare, haircare, and personal-care products sold in the European Union.
What is it?
Talc (Mg3H2(SiO3)4) (CI 77718)
What does it do?
Talc is listed in the EU cosmetic ingredient inventory with the following declared functions:
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Abrasive
removes material from the skin or other surface, used in scrubs and toothpaste
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Absorbent
takes up water-based or oil-based substances
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Anticaking
prevents powders from clumping or caking, keeping them free-flowing
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Bulking
adds volume or mass to a product without significantly changing its other properties
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Opacifying
makes a transparent or translucent formulation opaque or pearlescent
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Skin protecting
helps shield skin from external environmental factors
EU regulatory status
This ingredient is restricted in the European Union.
Talc is listed under Annex III of EU Cosmetics Regulation 1223/2009 (entry 59). It is permitted only under specific conditions, concentration limits, or in particular product types.
Frequently asked questions
What is Talc?
Talc is a cosmetic ingredient catalogued in the EU CosIng database. Talc (Mg3H2(SiO3)4) (CI 77718)
Is Talc allowed in cosmetics in the EU?
Only with restrictions. Talc is permitted in EU cosmetics only under specific conditions defined in Annex III of Regulation 1223/2009.
What does Talc do in cosmetic products?
Talc is declared in the EU cosmetic ingredient inventory with these functions: abrasive, absorbent, anticaking, bulking, opacifying, skin protecting.
What is the CAS number of Talc?
The CAS (Chemical Abstracts Service) number for Talc is 14807-96-6.
Related ingredients
Source: EU CosIng database (European Commission). This page is derived from public-sector information published by the European Commission. · Last updated: 15/10/2010