Talc

What does it mean to be soft? In the case of talc, which literally defines softness on Mohs scale of hardness in minerals, it means you can be scratched by nearly anything and absorb nearly everything. Being soft, silky, and able to hold oils, moisture, and scents makes this translucent, pearly mineral a popular ingredient in many skin products. You probably know it best as talcum powder, which is so gentle and lubricating that it used to be called baby powder and was used to soothe babies’ bums. Unfortunately, it’s in powdered form that it’s especially prone to soak things up. People are scared to use it these days because talc has gotten a reputation for being cancerous, but that’s entirely unfair. It’s not talc itself that’s dangerous, it’s the substances it absorbs. And even then, the only definitive proof of danger is connected to asbestos that has snuck its way into the talc, like an unwanted visit from your least favorite neighbor. Like many soft and sensitive people, talc just needs to be careful who it hangs around.