If you’re looking to minimize unwanted moisture or chafing, the best body powders for sweating can help. That said, while they all aim to keep you feeling dry and fresh, some formulas are definitely better than others. The formula should be your biggest determinant for both effectiveness and safety, and many feature supporting ingredients that can help with other concerns like irritated or dry skin.
First, let’s talk about ingredient safety. Over the years, there’s been a lot of controversy as to whether talcum powder (also known as talc) is safe for use on the body and if accidentally inhaled into the lungs. Some studies report a link between talc and cancer, while others found no confirmed relationship — but despite the inconclusive results, the popularity of this ingredient has declined significantly in recent years. Now, most top-selling brands use talc-free ingredients that are just as absorbent, like cornstarch, baking soda, arrowroot, and clay. Just keep in mind that some people experience sensitivity to baking soda and cornstarch, so no matter which product you choose, it’s always a good idea to patch test before going all-in.
