Asbestos, a known carcinogen, was widely used in the 20th century in products such as building materials, brakes and even to simulate snow in films. In the 1960s, a link was established between exposure to asbestos and the development of mesothelioma, an incurable form of cancer that most commonly affects the lungs.This research led to the ban on asbestos in the UK in 1999. Asbestos-related mesothelioma can take 30 to 50 years to develop after exposure.
Asbestos is a group of fibrous materials and inhaling it can cause damage to the mesothelium – the lining that connects the lungs, heart and stomach. When inhaled, the fibers can remain in the lungs for years, causing inflammation and eventually mesothelioma.
Although asbestos is harmful, cosmetics manufacturers are unable to completely eliminate the presence of the material, which may eventually be present in some products.
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Viruses could be a new weapon in cancer treatment; understanding The discovery of new molecules may provide answers to cancer treatment What diseases can genetic tests diagnose? Talc in cosmetic products can contain asbestos – Photo: Alim Yakubov/Shutterstock How asbestos can be in cosmetics Even if it is not used intentionally in cosmetics, asbestos can contaminate products that contain talc. Talc, which is commonly used in cosmetic products such as contact lenses, contact lenses and afterglow, may contain traces of asbestos due to the narrow surface area between the talc and asbestos lenses. A 2024 BBC investigation revealed that some brands of jewelry containing talc contained asbestos, posing a health risk to consumers. Talc is mined in large quantities, but the industry is illegal and uses limited testing techniques such as X-rays. This means that asbestos contamination can go unnoticed.
The risk of inhaling asbestos particles contained in dusty clothing increases the likelihood of developing mesothelioma, making the use of these products dangerous, with little information about the risks provided to consumers.
Inhaling asbestos particles is dangerous to your health – Photo: KPG-Payless/Shutterstock