Is There PFAS In Your Personal Care Products?

Hold onto your panties because California just filed a lawsuit against Carefree for their alleged use of PFAS in their products. And all I have to say is - IT’S ABOUT TIME!

PFAS also known as “forever chemicals”, think of them like that uninvited houseguest who shows up, never leaves, and eats all your snacks - Are often used to make products water-resistant or stain-repellent. The problem is that they can linger in our environment and our bodies for a very long time.

California is taking legal action, claiming that certain Carefree products were advertised as safe while allegedly containing these PFAS chemicals. Why does this matter? Because PFAS has been linked to potential health risks, such as cancer, immune disorders, and reproductive health issues.

PFAS in Personal Care Products: Why You Should Care About “Forever Chemicals”

From moisturizers and mascaras to shaving creams and shampoos, most of us rely on a variety of personal care products every single day. But did you know that some of these products may contain PFAS—also known as “forever chemicals”? In recent years, concerns have grown around the use of PFAS in consumer products, particularly because of their link to long-term health and environmental risks. Below, we break down what PFAS are, how they end up in everyday items, the associated dangers, and what you can do to make more informed choices.

What Are PFAS?

PFAS stands for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, a group of synthetic chemicals widely used for their water-repellent and grease-resistant properties. Historically, PFAS have been found in nonstick cookware (such as Teflon), stain-resistant fabrics, food packaging, firefighting foams, and more. Unfortunately, some of the same properties that make PFAS so useful—like their ability to repel water—also mean they don’t break down easily, earning them the nickname “forever chemicals.”

Today, PFAS are present in a range of consumer goods, including certain personal care products like cosmetics, lotions, or makeup labeled as “waterproof,” “long-lasting,” or “resistant.” While these descriptions might sound like selling points, they often rely on PFAS to achieve that smudge-proof or durable effect.

Health and Environmental Concerns

1. Bioaccumulation
   PFAS don’t readily degrade, so they linger in the environment and can accumulate in humans, animals, and our ecosystems. Over time, this buildup can reach potentially harmful levels.

2. Potential Health Risks
   Studies have linked exposure to certain PFAS chemicals with health concerns such as:

   • Increased cholesterol levels
   • Kidney and testicular cancer in some animal studies
   • Changes in liver enzymes
   • Developmental issues in infants and children
   • Possible endocrine disruption (hormone interference)

3. Widespread Exposure
   Because PFAS are used in so many products—from food wrappers to personal care items—minimizing exposure can be challenging. But understanding where they’re found, including in our daily beauty and hygiene routines, is a crucial first step toward reducing health risks.

4. Environmental Impact
   PFAS chemicals wash off of our bodies and down the drain. They can end up in our waterways, soil, and eventually our food supply. This means they don’t just affect us individually; they have a persistent impact on the environment, wildlife, and entire communities.

How Do PFAS End Up in Personal Care Products?

• Water and Oil Repellents: PFAS help certain formulas resist water, sweat, and oil. This property is often marketed as “long-wearing” or “waterproof” in cosmetics and other personal care items.
• Production Contaminants: In some cases, PFAS might not be deliberately added but may appear as impurities or byproducts of manufacturing processes.

Common signs of PFAS in personal care products include ingredients such as polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) or those with the words “perfluoro-” or “polyfluoro-.” Checking the ingredient list is a good way to spot these chemicals if they’re disclosed.

Why It’s Important to Know What’s in Your Products

1. Health Consciousness
   Your skin is your body’s largest organ, and what goes on it can be absorbed into your bloodstream. By being aware of PFAS, you can make informed choices and opt for formulas less likely to contain potentially harmful chemicals.

2. Cumulative Exposure
   PFAS are found in more places than just personal care—food packaging, stain-resistant fabrics, and more. Reducing the amount you use in one area of your life can cut down on your overall exposure.

3. Informed Consumerism
   Understanding what’s in our products empowers us to demand safer alternatives. Many companies have begun reformulating their products and labeling them as “PFAS-free.” Consumer pressure can help accelerate this shift.

4. Protecting the Environment
   Every product we rinse off eventually goes down the drain and makes its way into local water systems. Choosing PFAS-free alternatives helps reduce environmental pollution and protect wildlife.

How to Avoid or Reduce PFAS in Your Daily Routine

1. Read Labels and Do Your Research
   Look for ingredients with “PTFE,” “perfluoro-,” “polyfluoro-,” or “fluoro” in the name—these are often indicators of PFAS.

   • Consider checking resources like the Environmental Working Group’s (EWG) Skin Deep Database to see product ratings and ingredient safety.

2. Seek Out PFAS-Free Certifications
   Some eco-conscious and “clean beauty” brands now advertise that they’re PFAS-free. Certificates or seals from reputable third-party organizations can help you identify safer options.

3. Go for Simpler Formulas
   Products with fewer synthetic additives or long-wearing claims may be less likely to contain PFAS. Look for simple ingredient lists made from more natural, plant-based components.

4. Stay Informed
   Research surrounding PFAS is evolving. Keep an eye on reputable news sources, scientific studies, or regulatory updates to stay updated on new findings and best practices.

5. Encourage Policy Changes
   Support initiatives and legislation aimed at limiting or banning PFAS in consumer goods. Collective action can push companies toward safer product formulations and help protect consumers and the environment.

PFAS, or “forever chemicals,” serve as a reminder that “long-lasting” and “waterproof” can sometimes come with a hidden cost to our health and environment. While completely avoiding PFAS may be challenging—given how widespread they are—every effort to reduce exposure is a step in the right direction. By understanding ingredient lists, demanding transparency, and choosing cleaner formulations, we can encourage the industry to move away from potentially harmful chemicals.

Remember: Your buying power matters. Being aware and making small, consistent changes in your routine can accumulate into a significant positive impact. Whether it’s switching to safer cosmetics, demanding clearer labels from brands, or supporting policy initiatives, each of us has a role to play in creating a healthier future for ourselves and the planet.