Baby Powder: Applications & Health Benefits

Baby powder is a true all-rounder for some, and a carcinogenic powder and risk factor for bronchial tubes and ovaries for others. Because of its astringent effect, baby powder is often described as a dry shampoo, a proven remedy for sweaty feet and hands, and an effective preparation against acne, in addition to its actual purpose – the treatment of baby bottoms. More than 90% of baby powder products contain talc, which is said to have asbestos-like and therefore carcinogenic properties. Products made from corn starch, however, are completely free of questionable ingredients.

What is baby powder?

The very fine powder is applied to cleansed baby skin to counteract irritation and inflammation. The ingredients used are magnesium carbonate, zinc oxide as well as talc as the main ingredient. Baby powder is often used to treat diaper dermatitis due to its anti-inflammatory and absorbent properties. This is sore spots in the buttocks area that occur due to excrement or due to hypersensitivity to the diaper. Soreness is a part of acute phases for many children. Some also suffer chronically from these complaints, a baby powder is then often not enough to treat the painful inflammations. The very fine powder is applied to cleansed baby skin to counteract irritation and inflammation. The main ingredients are magnesium carbonate, zinc oxide and talc. The ingredient talc in particular is given a dominant role because of its moisture-removing effect. However, this ingredient in particular is often the subject of critical discussions.

Forms, types and kinds

There are countless baby powders in drugstores, supermarkets, baby specialty stores and health food stores. The vast majority contain up to 90% talc. Prices vary from just under €2 to as much as €12. Because of the proven harmful effects of talc, some manufacturers are now using cornstarch. This product is applied to the skin in lotion-like form and also achieves a cooling effect. Its main ingredient, citroganix, provides the antiseptic effect and does not contain talc or parabens. The highlight: when applied to the skin, the lotion turns into powder. The offerings of some organic suppliers such as Weleda rely on medicinal herbs such as arnica, calendula and echinacea for their ingredients. Nevertheless, talc is also used as the main ingredient here. At Bio Naturel and some other suppliers, the product baby powder has been completely removed from the range.

Structure and mode of operation

Baby powder consists mainly of talc. It is a very commonly used layered silicate obtained from soapstone. Its percentage in most baby powders is 90%. It is used for its astringent effect, which also has pore-reducing properties. Talc is absolutely resistant to moisture and is therefore often used in the pharmaceutical industry. Even the powder on chewing gum often contains talc. Due to the controversial discussion about talc, some manufacturers now do without the ingredient or have reduced its content. These changes in products are not controlled by law. Other ingredients include zinc oxide and magnesium carbonate. Zinc oxide is known for its antiseptic character, it soothes existing inflammation and prevents new irritation of the affected skin areas, such as further pimples and blackheads. Magnesium carbonate can absorb pus and wound secretions and is responsible for the skin adhesion of the powder. At the same time, this ingredient also absorbs excess wound wetness and thus dries out the sore areas.

Medical and health benefits

Baby powder is said to have anti-inflammatory, antiseptic and thus wound-regulating properties. Meanwhile, there are a number of midwives who are critical of the use of classic baby powder and point to the alternative of potato flour. The ingredient talc, which is often used in baby powders, has come under a lot of criticism. In the last 30 years, researchers have found that talc particles can cause tumors in the ovaries and lungs. Inhalation of the fine powder particles by newborns is also said to cause severe bronchial impairment.In recent years, there have been repeated accidents during the use of the powders: The doses were accidentally emptied when opened and thus led to serious hazards for children through inhalation in large quantities. The industry is now trying to counter this. Refill packs are no longer in the range and the openings of the cans have been made smaller. Those who want to use a product without talc can resort to lotions with cornstarch. Only on the skin does the liquid powder transform into a powdery consistency and is made of 100% natural ingredients. Those who want to avoid the use of baby powder for various reasons can resort to other alternatives: Many mothers swear by the use of cornmeal, which is harmless to health when mixed with essential oils and, above all – allergies excluded – without any side effects. In addition, it can be used immediately after production and also has a long shelf life when stored dry. Wound protection creams are also available in a large selection both in supermarkets and in organic shops. These are lotions and oils with calendula extract, chamomile or even beeswax, and they are also supposed to have a wound-healing effect. However, midwives increasingly advise the alternative potato flour and also the use of black tea (the cooled bag is simply dabbed on the affected areas of skin) has already proven successful for many sore children.