Asbestos containing everyday products:

It’s not common to think of your everyday products as potential carriers of the deadly substance, asbestos. We trust the companies that provide us with household items without a second thought regarding the materials that produce those items. 

However, it’s essential to consider the dangers of asbestos. We are here to share some vital information that can help you become a more conscious shopper the next time you need to pick up these everyday items for your home. Let’s start with the basics: what is asbestos, and how exactly does it harm the human body? 

Naturally occurring, asbestos is a mineral that consists of soft and flexible fibres. The danger lies in mineral fibres permanently lodging themselves in the body if asbestos dust is breathed or eaten. Its introduction into our environment can lead to severe illnesses such as mesothelioma, a form of cancer. 

Cosmetics

How does asbestos find its way into your cosmetic products? It’s a combination of using a material known as talc and inadequate asbestos testing to determine its safety for use in cosmetics. Talc is known as the world’s softest mineral and is not scientifically proven to cause any harmful diseases such as cancer. 

The issue with talc is its geological proximity to asbestos. The two minerals can sometimes grow near each other, causing many talc deposits to become contaminated with the deadly substance. 

Talc is appreciated for its ability to absorb moisture while also providing lubrication. Talc is used in cosmetics to give a smooth, silky texture, dilute coloured ingredients, and function as a filler. Powder compacts, finishing powders, eye shadows, blushes, foundations, and creams all include it.

When shopping for cosmetics, avoid any product that lists talc as an ingredient. Consider the dangers of buying cosmetics for children; there have been cases where asbestos was found in children’s makeup.

Baby Powder

A product that you could never imagine as a carrier of deadly carcinogens is baby powder. Johnson & Johnson is the go-to brand for many parents of a newborn in need of baby powder. Still, recent allegations and class-action lawsuits have placed the company under hot water for allegedly selling asbestos-contaminated baby powder. 

Other brands have also been known for testing positive for asbestos. To be on the safe side, always avoid any baby powder products that use talcum powder.

Hair Dryers

While there is no cause for concern with today’s newer hairdryers, there is always the issue of older models still in use at hair salons or in your home. Hairdryers were once made with asbestos insulation to keep the interior components from overheating and catching fire. If you own any hairdryer from before the 1980s or a salon you frequently visit uses old hood-style hair dryers, beware of their dangerous levels of asbestos. 

Gardening Products

Vermiculite has been used in fertilizers, insecticides, potting mixes, and composts because it offers aeration and drainage. However, the product can contain asbestos. 

To safely use vermiculite in your garden, we recommend disposing of any old vermiculite that predates the 1990s. Use the product outdoors, and avoid creating dust by keeping it damp. Finally, wear a mask to be extra safe and avoid bringing dust particles into your home via your clothing. 

Vermiculite is also known as a material once used for insulation in homes. This type of insulation should not be a problem as long as it is kept undisturbed behind intact walls or in attic areas and does not go airborne. If you intend to renovate, employ an asbestos-trained and certified specialist.

If you require asbestos removal from your home or business, please get in touch with us at 1- 604-838-8808 or learn more about our services to see which one is right for you.