Alarming discoveries have been made over the past few decades about plastics and harmful chemicals in our food, water, and even our bodies. But now, scientists are raising the alarm about the potential dangers of “forever chemicals” in everyday beauty products.
These chemicals, known for their persistence in the environment and the human body, are being absorbed right through your skin.
What Are Forever Chemicals?
“Forever chemicals” refer to a group of man-made substances called per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). These chemicals are used in countless household products because they tend to be good at repelling water, grease, and oil.
Because of their strong chemical bonds, PFAS do not break down easily, hence the name “forever chemicals.”
Everyday Exposure
PFAS can be found in many everyday items, such as non-stick cookware, waterproof clothing, food packaging, and even cosmetics. This widespread use means that most people are exposed to these chemicals regularly.
Whether through direct contact or environmental contamination, PFAS find their way into our bodies and accumulate over time.
Forever Chemical Health Concerns
The potential health risks associated with PFAS are becoming increasingly concerning. The majority of Americans already have PFAS in their blood.
These chemicals have been linked to a variety of health problems, including cancer, hormone disruption, liver damage, and weakened immune systems. Because these chemicals don’t leave your body, the small, repeated exposures accumulate to larger health issues over time.
Skin Absorption Worries
Recent research has highlighted a new area of concern: skin absorption. Scientists have discovered that PFAS can be absorbed through the skin, raising questions about the safety of everyday products like lotions, sunscreens, and cosmetics that may contain these chemicals.
Given how widespread these chemicals are, most consumers have likely been coating themselves with harmful substances without realizing it.
The Invisible Threat
One of the challenges with PFAS is their invisibility. These chemicals do not have a smell, taste, or color, making them difficult to detect. Without specifically checking each individual product label, there’s no easy way to avoid them.
This invisibility contributes to the lack of public awareness about the potential dangers of PFAS and underscores the need for more education and regulation.
Regulatory Efforts
Governments and regulatory bodies are starting to take action against PFAS. Some states have set limits on PFAS levels in drinking water, and there are calls for broader federal regulations.
Given the widespread use of these chemicals, comprehensive and effective regulation remains a complex challenge. As of 2024, only 10 states have begun to limit PFAS in personal care products.
What Can You Do?
Avoiding products known to contain these chemicals, such as non-stick cookware, is step one to avoiding PFAS. Many brands are starting to offer PFAS-free alternative products.
Before throwing that new sunscreen, foundation, or hand sanitizer into your shopping cart, take the time to read the entire ingredients label.
Exploring Safe Alternatives
As awareness of the dangers of PFAS grows, many are seeking safer alternatives to these harmful chemicals. Brands hoping to meet this new consumer demand are committing to using non-toxic ingredients.
PFAS Central has a regularly updated list of brands and products that are free of Forever Chemicals. Consumer demand for safer, PFAS-free products can drive industry changes and encourage the development of safer alternatives.
Ongoing PFAS Research
Research on PFAS is ongoing, with scientists working to better understand how these chemicals affect health and how they can be removed from the environment.
One study from Harvard University showed that even low levels of PFAS exposure can lead to serious health issues. Researchers are also investigating the impact of PFAS on children’s development, with potential links to developmental delays and behavioral problems.
A Call to Action
The growing awareness of the dangers of PFAS is a call to action for individuals, industries, and governments. By staying informed, making safer choices, and supporting regulatory efforts, we can help reduce the presence of these “forever chemicals” in our lives and protect our health for the future.
The message is clear: we must take proactive steps to address the invisible threat of PFAS.
