Talcum powder serves as a lubricant and adds softness and shine to products. It prevents caking, absorbs moisture and makes products feel silky. This makes it a common ingredient in cosmetics, food additives and industrial products like rubber, paint, and plastic products. Talcum powder was historically a key ingredient in baby powder.
People have been using talc as far back as ancient Egypt. Ancient Assyrians and Native Americans also used talc for a variety of purposes. Talcum powder has cosmetic and industrial uses.