The short answer
Talc is still allowed in cosmetics in the U.S. — in face powders, eye shadows, blush, dry shampoo and body powders. But talc can be contaminated with asbestos, and MoCRA (section 3505) requires FDA to set standardized testing methods for asbestos in talc-containing cosmetics.
Where things stand in November 2026:
- FDA proposed the testing rule on December 27, 2024 (89 FR 105490).
- FDA withdrew it on November 28, 2025 (90 FR 54603, docket FDA-2023-N-4225), saying comments raised issues that need further review.
- FDA says it will issue a new proposed rule. Until then, there is no mandatory federal test method — but FDA can still act against a contaminated product, and it keeps testing talc cosmetics.
What the withdrawn proposal would have required
| Element | December 2024 proposal |
|---|---|
| Who | Manufacturers of all talc-containing cosmetics, including products that are also drugs |
| Testing | Test the product, or the talc before use, for asbestos using specified methods |
| Records | Keep records showing compliance |
| Consequence | Asbestos found, or no testing or records, would make the cosmetic adulterated |
FDA gave three reasons for the withdrawal: current HHS priorities, the technical complexity of the comments and of asbestos testing, and legal considerations under the Administrative Procedure Act. It said it will reconsider “broader principles to reduce exposure to asbestos.”
What FDA’s own testing has found
- 2019: a year-long sampling assignment found asbestos in some talc cosmetics. FDA issued a safety alert in October 2019, and a baby powder maker voluntarily recalled a product.
- 2021, 2022 and 2023: FDA published further testing results; the 2023 results were released on April 5, 2024.
What talc users should do now
- 1Know your talc sourceFDA notes that talc and asbestos can occur near each other in the earth, so mine selection matters. Get the mine and supplier name for every talc lot.
- 2Test with sensitive methodsAsk for asbestos test reports on each lot from a qualified laboratory, and keep them.
- 3Put it in your safety fileYour MoCRA safety substantiation for each talc product should include the talc testing. See safety substantiation.
- 4Watch for the new proposalFDA has committed to re-propose; testing methods may change.
Example: a makeup maker in South Korea
A Korean company exports pressed powders and eye shadow palettes that contain talc. It asks its talc supplier for the mine source and an asbestos test report for every lot, keeps those reports with each product’s safety file, and checks that its U.S. labels list talc in the ingredient list. When FDA publishes the new proposed rule, it plans to compare its laboratory’s methods with FDA’s.
Cosmetic facility registration with U.S. Agent from $300 (1 year) or $450 (2 years). Product listing $150 per product. Cosmetics label review $250.
Frequently asked questions
Is talc banned in US cosmetics?
No. Talc is allowed. The concern is asbestos contamination, not talc itself.
Is FDA’s talc asbestos testing rule in force?
No. FDA proposed it on December 27, 2024 and withdrew it on November 28, 2025. It says it will issue a new proposal.
Do I need to test talc for asbestos now?
There is no mandatory federal method yet, but you are responsible for the safety of your product and must keep safety substantiation under MoCRA. Testing each talc lot is the practical way to show that.
Does the rule cover talc in drugs?
The withdrawn proposal covered talc-containing cosmetics, including those that are also drugs or devices.
Sources
- Federal Register — Testing methods for asbestos in talc-containing cosmetics; withdrawal (90 FR 54603, November 28, 2025)
- FDA — Talc (updated January 16, 2026)
- FDA — 2023 testing of talc-containing cosmetic products for asbestos
Status checked on November 11, 2026. This article is general information, not legal advice.