Baby powder is an astringent powder used for preventing diaper rash, as a deodorant, and for other cosmetic uses. It may be composed of talc (in which case it is also called talcum powder) or corn starch. Talcum powder is harmful if inhaled since it may cause aspiration pneumonia or granuloma. Drugs such as cocaine are sometimes cut with talcum powder;. It is also an ingredient in counterfeit pharmaceuticals and food products as a bulking agent in order to give the appearance of a larger quantity than actually present. Pediatricians generally prefer cornstarch to talc because it is unlikely to be easily inhaled.
The ingredients of Johnson's baby powders are listed as Zea Mays starch, Tricalcium Phosphate and Fragrance or Talc and Parfum.
Famous quotes containing the words baby and/or powder:
“To worry about spoiling an infant by comforting him when he cries is needless.... If you put the baby down and the baby cries, pick him up. His crying isnt a habit you should try to break. Your baby cant be taught not to cry.”
—Lawrence Balter (20th century)
“Despite my asbestos gloves,
the cough is filling me with black,
and a red powder seeps through my veins....”
—Anne Sexton (19281974)