Is talc powder harmful?
Talc is a mineral based powder. It can irritate the lungs if inhaled, and of course can be quite dangerous if inhaled in quantity. There don’t seem to be long term health problems documented, as with asbestos. The lungs do seem to be able to eliminate it. So, as long as you can use it externally without inhaling a noticeable amount, it seems to be safe. With a baby, you will want to apply it carefully, so as to avoid allowing the dust to become airborne as much as possible. We would sometimes lay a washcloth or some such over our babies’ mouths to act as an air filter.
