PFAS Meaning
Many people are looking for personal care products that promise hydration, protection, and a youthful glow. However, it is crucial to know which harmful substances stealthily creep into our routine. One of these concerning substances is PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), also known as "forever chemicals."
What are PFAS and where are they found?
PFAS are synthetic chemicals found in various household products due to their water, grease, and dirt-repellent properties. You can find them in food packaging, non-stick cookware, cleaning products, and also in some cosmetics. While their usefulness in everyday products is undeniable, these chemicals have a major drawback: they are toxic and persist in the environment and in our bodies for a very long time.
PFAS in the body
It is alarming but true: PFAS can enter our bodies through multiple routes (source). We absorb them through food and water, inhale them through the air, and as new research shows, these chemicals can also penetrate our skin. Recent studies have confirmed that PFAS can breach our skin barrier and enter the bloodstream. This discovery is concerning because it exposes an additional route of exposure that was previously underestimated.
What do PFAS do to your body?
Once in the body, PFAS can cause numerous health problems. Even at low levels, they are associated with immune system suppression, reduced vaccine efficacy, and an increased risk of certain cancers. Other health issues include elevated cholesterol levels, reproductive and developmental problems, liver damage, and lower birth weight.
Environmental impact of PFAS
The presence of PFAS is not only a personal health problem; it is a global environmental issue. These chemicals do not break down naturally, earning them the nickname "forever chemicals." They accumulate in the environment, especially in water sources, through industrial discharges and the disposal of PFAS-containing products. This widespread contamination means they re-enter our bodies via the food chain.
PFAS research and skin absorption
In a significant study, researchers tested 17 commonly used PFAS on 3D models of human skin. These models accurately mimic human skin, allowing scientists to observe absorption rates without using animal testing. They discovered that 15 of the 17 PFAS could be absorbed through the skin. One of the most regulated PFAS, perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), was absorbed into the bloodstream by 13.5%, with another 38% remaining in the skin, which can lead to prolonged exposure.
The research showed that the absorption rate of PFAS varies with the length of their carbon chains. Shorter chains, often used as substitutes for longer ones like PFOA, are more easily absorbed. For example, perfluoropentanoic acid (PFPeA) was absorbed four times more effectively than PFOA. This finding is crucial because the industry is switching to shorter-chain PFAS, assuming they are safer, while in fact, they may have higher absorption rates.
What does this mean for us? These findings highlight the importance of understanding and limiting our exposure to PFAS, especially through our skin. Although some PFAS are banned, many are still in use, and their full health impact remains under investigation.
PFAS-free cosmetics
As consumers, we can take steps to protect ourselves. Choose personal care products that are PFAS-free, stay informed about the ingredients in your skincare and cosmetics, and support regulations aimed at reducing the use of these harmful chemicals.
Conclusion: PFAS in cosmetics
Our skin is the largest organ of our body and a crucial barrier against environmental toxins. The revelation that PFAS can breach this barrier emphasizes the need for greater awareness and proactive measures to limit exposure. By staying informed and making conscious choices, we can better protect our skin and overall health from the hidden dangers of these "forever chemicals."
Stay safe, stay informed, and take good care of your skin—it is your body's first line of defense. How can you check if your products contain PFAS? Scan the ingredient list using a photo via the Think Dirty app.
