31-25 High Resolution-Inductively Coupled Plasma-Mass Spectrometry (HR-ICP-MS) analysis on Johnson’s Baby Powder (JBP) sourced from China: Progress in Understanding Geochemical Properties for a Type 2A carcinogen material

Session: Environmental Geochemistry and Health (Posters)

Poster Booth No.: 51

Presenting Author:

Mark Krekeler

Authors:

Krekeler, Mark P. S.¹, Gugino, Jack P.², Lytle, Marion³, Belak, Ethan⁴, Zimmerer, Maddy⁵, Wudke, Hannah⁶

(1) Miami University, Oxford, OH, , (2) Miami University, Oxford, OH, , (3) Miami University, Oxford, Ohio, USA, (4) Miami University, Oxford, OH, , (5) Miami University, Oxford, Ohio, USA, (6) Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA,

Abstract:

Talc is a widely used mineral in numerous applications globally, including cosmetic, industrial, and pharmaceutical uses. However, the association of asbestos and talc is recognized and is a major concern. Moreover, talc was indicated to be a Type 2A carcinogen by IARC in 2024. One additional area of concern is the occurrence of trace and minor metals that may be naturally occurring. We analyzed 43 samples of Johnson's talc-based baby powder (JBP) that was sourced from China to assess the nature of trace metal content. Metals which occurred in all samples include V (8.55 - 12.58 mg/kg), Cr (2.25 - 31.01 mg/kg), Ni (1.34 - 4.64 mg/kg), Zn (2.09 - 884.21 mg/kg), Pb (1.41 - 5.55 mg/kg), Th (0.33 - 1.08 mg/kg) and U (0.53 - 1.44 mg/kg). Ba was below detection in 8 of the 44 samples and otherwise varied from 0.63 - 87.31 mg/kg. Hg was analyzed in 29 samples and was detected only in 4 samples, varying from 0.19 - 0.39. Cd was analyzed in all samples and was below detection limit. Compared to a population of industrial talc crayons, JBP has higher average concentrations for V, Cr, Ni, Zn, Ba, Pb, Th, and U. Results contradict the notion that marketing-defined cosmetic talc is always “cleaner” than marketing-defined industrial talc materials, at least in this case, comparing similar source regions. Compositions observed are distinct from other JBP samples interpreted to be from Vermont, which have distinctive and greatly elevated Cr, Ni, and Co concentrations compared to JBP sourced from China. Results provide some context in interpreting other cosmetic data for forensic purposes. JBP data may be useful for medical professionals in assessing exposure to metals in those who have used JBP and more broadly talc. The presence of Pb in all samples of JBP may be significant in the context of understanding infant, mother, and health professional exposure. This investigation points to the need for more study to understand trace and minor element chemistry in talc products.

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