Airborne dust exposure during the application of talc-based pressed powder makeups

Pressed powder makeup, such as foundation powder, blush, and eyeshadow, is frequently used by consumers worldwide. Due to the binding agents utilized in these products, authoritative bodies do not expect any potential significant inhalation exposures during the use of these products. However, due to the relatively short duration of the application process, detection of airborne particulates by traditional analytical methods is limited. To date, no study has investigated the non-asbestos particulate inhalation potential of pressed powders in real-world use conditions involving direct application by human users. This study utilized a light scattering photometer to quantify airborne particulate during the application of pressed powder makeup by regular cosmetic users in a controlled environment. The study found an average total dust level of 0.028 mg/m³ and an average respirable dust level of 0.002 mg/m³ during the combined application of foundation powder, blush, and eyeshadow. The average duration of application was 6.35 min, and the amount of product used, by mass, was consistent with that reported by authoritative bodies. Microscopic analysis of the bulk product found that the diameter of these products was consistent with the specifications for these products and what was observed through airborne measurements. Using a multidisciplinary approach across the fields of industrial hygiene, toxicology, microscopy, and epidemiology, and considering the magnitude and duration of exposures measured in this study, significant inhalation hazards would not be expected under normal use conditions.