Let’s be honest—Johnson’s Baby Powder has been a household staple for decades. Its soft, clean scent probably reminds you of childhood baths, your mom’s vanity drawer, or maybe even a little beauty hack or two. But in recent years, the iconic white bottle has stirred up more controversy than a reality TV reunion.

So, is it still safe? Should it have a place in your beauty routine in 2025? We did the research, so you don’t have to.

The Truth About the Talc

First, let’s address the elephant in the bathroom: talc.

Traditional Johnson’s Baby Powder was made with talc, a mineral that, when mined, can sometimes be contaminated with asbestos (yes, that asbestos—the one linked to serious health issues). This led to thousands of lawsuits and public concern over potential links to ovarian cancer and respiratory issues.

In response, Johnson & Johnson discontinued its talc-based baby powder in the U.S. and Canada back in 2020, switching to a cornstarch-based formula. As of 2023, the company announced it would globally transition away from talc altogether.

So if you’re picking up a new bottle today, you’re likely getting the cornstarch version, which is generally considered safe and widely used in skincare products.

Should You Still Use It?

Short answer? Yes—but with intention.

The cornstarch formula is considered safe for external use, especially if you:

• Avoid inhaling it (so no powder clouds, please!)
• Don’t use it on broken or irritated skin
• Use it sparingly and sensibly—this isn’t dry shampoo, babe.

Beauty Uses That Actually Make Sense

Here’s how modern beauty lovers are still using baby powder—in safe, elevated ways:

• Thigh Chafing Hero – A light dusting can prevent that dreaded summer thigh rub when you’re rocking short skirts or a cute romper.
• Overnight Foot Refresher – Sprinkle in your socks before bed to absorb moisture and wake up feeling fresh.
• Oil-Controlled Glam – A teensy bit on a fluffy brush can mattify your T-zone if you’re out of blotting powder.
• Lash Plumper Hack – Some makeup artists swear by applying a little powder between mascara coats to add volume (just be super careful around your eyes!).

Safer, Chic Alternatives

If you’re still feeling a little meh about baby powder, here are some powdery darlings that do the job—without the drama:

🏷️ Affordable Powder Picks:

Burt’s Bees Baby Bee Dusting Powder
Talc-free blend of cornstarch, buttermilk & slippery elm bark.
Natural, vegan-friendly, and kind to sensitive skin.

💎 Luxe Dusting Powders Worth the Splurge:

• Lush Silky Underwear Dusting Powder (60g): Soft, silky, scented with jasmine & cocoa butter; UK editors love it as a luxe anti-chafing solution and tactile treat.
• Luvmilk Dusting Powder (indie brand): Rave-reviewed by users for summer sweat management.
• Gymslip or Princess from Lush UK exclusives: UK Redditors love Gymslip’s scent and texture.

The Bottom Line

Johnson’s Baby Powder has evolved—and so should how we use it. With talc out of the picture, the cornstarch version can still be your beauty bestie if you use it wisely. But in 2025, you’ve got options, and your glam routine deserves nothing less than informed choices.

So dust off that bottle—or try something new—and stay glowing, Beauties and Gems.

💌 Suggested CTA

Want to find a talc-free, skin-kind powder or refillable body oil that suits your skin and climate?

Our London-based team will help you discover glow-safe, fuss-free alternatives that work in real life—shipped with love to East Africa.

📩 Email: personalshopper@myhqafrica.com
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