What Is Talcum Powder?
Talcum powder is derived from talc, a naturally occurring mineral. Crushed, dried, and milled into a fine white powder, it has long been used in cosmetic and industrial products — including baby powder, foundation, eye shadow, and face powder — as a lubricant that adds softness and reduces friction.
Johnson & Johnson marketed its Baby Powder and Shower-to-Shower products as safe for female hygiene. However, FDA testing found asbestos — a known human carcinogen — in J&J's talc-based products, prompting a voluntary recall in October 2019. J&J stopped producing talc-based products altogether in 2020.
The Link to Cancer
Numerous studies have investigated a connection between talcum powder and ovarian cancer when used for personal hygiene purposes. While some studies were inconclusive, others found a meaningful association — particularly between genital talc use and ovarian cancer risk.
Additionally, talc deposits naturally occur near asbestos in the Earth's crust, making contamination possible during mining. FDA testing confirmed asbestos presence in certain J&J Baby Powder samples, strengthening the claims of thousands of plaintiffs who developed ovarian cancer or mesothelioma.
How BG&G Handles Your Case
We investigate the full circumstances of your case and evaluate every category of damages — past, present, and future.
We partner with leading oncologists and scientific experts to build the causal connection between talcum powder use and your diagnosis.
We comprehensively research similar cases already in litigation to identify the strongest legal strategy for your situation.
From filing to settlement, we guide you through every stage of the legal process and fight for maximum compensation on your behalf.
How Liability Is Established
Talcum powder lawsuits fall under strict product liability — three distinct theories can apply. Most cases against J&J proceed on a failure to warn theory, which does not require proving that J&J acted carelessly, only that it knew of the risks and stayed silent.
The inherent design of the product is flawed — talc's natural susceptibility to asbestos contamination may constitute a defect built into the product from the start.
A specific batch or production run of the product was manufactured improperly, resulting in dangerous asbestos levels not present in the intended design.
J&J knew its talc-based products could cause cancer and failed to warn consumers. This is the most common theory in talcum powder lawsuits — and does not require proving carelessness, only that J&J knew of the risk.
The burden of proof in a product liability case is "preponderance of the evidence" — meaning it is more likely than not that the defendant's product caused your harm. Our attorneys know how to meet this standard and build the strongest possible case.
What Damages Can You Recover?
The harm caused by these products can be severe and long-lasting. BG&G will cut no corners in evaluating the full extent of your losses and demanding fair compensation on your behalf.
Frequently Asked Questions
Speak With a Talcum Powder Attorney Today
Lawsuits in this area have already resulted in multi-billion dollar verdicts. If you developed ovarian cancer or mesothelioma after using talc-based products, you may have a valid claim. BG&G works on a contingency fee basis — no fees unless we win.
Free consultation · No obligation · Contingency fee basis