How to Use Talc Powder

Gymnasts often use talc powder on their hands before performing.

Talc powder is a cosmetic product made from finely ground talc, which is an extremely soft mineral. As a moisture absorber, talc powder has a variety of uses, some of which may be surprising. Talc powder should not be mistaken for baby powder, which is commonly used to reduce the risk of nappy rash and other skin irritations. Baby powder is normally made from pure cornstarch and is much more gentle to the skin than talc powder.Talc powder is designed for specific uses, and addresses these uses effectively.

Instructions

1. Apply talc powder to the inner thighs, armpits, nipples and other parts of the body to prevent chafing during physical activities such as hiking and running. Sweating and friction from clothing rubbing against the body can cause chafing; talc powder will help the body stay dry.

2. Sprinkle talc powder into socks before hiking or running to keep feet dry and to aid in avoiding blisters.

3. Scatter talc powder around the foundations of your house, doors and windows to repel ants.

4. Sprinkle talc powder between squeaky floorboards to reduce the noise they create when walked on.

5. Sprinkle talc powder into a cup and add water until it forms a paste. Apply the paste to a fresh bloodstain on clothing or furniture. Leave it to dry then brush away the dried talc and the stain will be eradicated from the fabric.

6. Sprinkle talc powder over a greasy stain on a carpet until the entire stain is evenly covered. Leave the talc on the grease spot for at least six hours to soak up all the grease. Vacuum the talc powder away.

7. Sprinkle talc powder directly onto a greasy spot on a polyester garment and rub it in with your fingers. Leave it for 24 hours. Brush it gently with a garment brush. Repeat the process as necessary until the stain disappears.

8. Sprinkle talc powder onto knots in shoelaces to make it easier to loosen them with your fingers.

9. Sprinkle talc powder onto tangles in chain necklaces to make it easier to untangle them with your fingers.

Tips & Warnings

• A 2010 report produced by Harvard School of Public Health concluded that talc powder use may be linked with certain types of cancer, however the results of further studies remain inconclusive and further research is required.

• Never inhale or swallow talc powder; this can irritate the lungs and intestinal tract.

References

• The Walking Site: How to prevent blisters and chafing
• Reader's Digest Version: Terrific Ways to Use Talcum Powder
• Mail Online; Talc link to raised womb cancer risk: Once a week use increases the threat by 24 per cent; Pat Hagan; 2010