You might be filtering your water but applying PFAS directly to your skin every morning. A 2021 study published in Environmental Science & Technology Letters found PFAS in over half of North American cosmetics tested – with the highest levels in waterproof and long-lasting products.
Researchers at the University of Notre Dame tested 231 cosmetic products and found:
### Why PFAS Is in Cosmetics Manufacturers use PFAS in cosmetics for: - Waterproofing – Keeps makeup from smearing - Smooth application – Creates a silky feel - Long wear – Helps products stay in place all day - Oil resistance – Prevents shine breakthrough
### Highest Risk: 1. Waterproof mascara – Fluorine levels up to 16,000 ppm 2. Liquid foundations – Especially "long-wear" formulas 3. Sunscreen – Water-resistant formulations 4. Lip products – Especially concerning because they're ingested
### Moderate Risk: - Concealer - Blush - Eye shadow - Setting sprays
### Lower Risk: - Powder-based products (less need for waterproofing) - Natural/mineral makeup brands (typically PFAS-free) - Products explicitly labeled "PFAS-free"
### Dermal Absorption PFAS in cosmetics is absorbed through the skin – a more direct exposure route than drinking water. Studies show: - PFAS penetrates skin within hours of application - Some compounds reach the bloodstream in 30 minutes - Daily application creates chronic, consistent exposure
### Lip Products = Ingestion Lipstick, lip gloss, and lip balm are partially ingested throughout the day: - Average lipstick wearer ingests 4 lbs of lipstick in a lifetime - PFAS in lip products enters the digestive system directly - This is particularly concerning for high-use products
### Cumulative with Other Sources Cosmetic PFAS adds to your total body burden from water, food, and household products. For people already exposed through water contamination, cosmetics can tip the scale toward health effects.
### PFAS-Free Makeup Brands: - Ilia Beauty – Clean ingredients, PFAS-free - RMS Beauty – Organic, minimal ingredients - Kosas – Committed to PFAS-free formulations - Beautycounter – Extensive banned substance list including PFAS - Bite Beauty – Food-grade ingredients
### How to Check Your Products: 1. Use the EWG Skin Deep database – Rates cosmetics for safety 2. Check ingredient lists for: PTFE, perfluoro-, fluoro- prefixes 3. Look for certifications – MADE SAFE, EWG Verified 4. Contact manufacturers – Ask about PFAS testing
### Simple Swaps: - Waterproof mascara → Tubing mascara (water-based, easy removal) - Long-wear foundation → Mineral powder foundation - Chemical sunscreen → Mineral (zinc oxide) sunscreen - Lip gloss → Organic lip balm or PFAS-free lip color
### California AB 2771 (2022) California banned intentionally added PFAS in cosmetics sold in the state, effective 2025. This is the strongest cosmetics PFAS law in the US.
### Federal Level: - FDA has authority to regulate cosmetics under the Modernization of Cosmetics Regulation Act (MoCRA) of 2022 - PFAS-specific cosmetics rules are under development - EU has proposed banning PFAS in cosmetics entirely
### How do I know if my makeup has PFAS? Look for ingredients containing "fluoro" or "perfluoro" in the name. PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) is the most common. However, PFAS isn't always listed – independent testing is the only way to be certain.
### Is "clean beauty" always PFAS-free? No. "Clean beauty" has no regulated definition. Some clean beauty brands have tested positive for PFAS. Look for specific PFAS-free claims or third-party certifications.
### Can I absorb PFAS through my skin? Yes. Studies confirm dermal absorption of PFAS from cosmetics. The rate varies by compound and skin condition, but measurable absorption occurs within hours of application.
### Are men's grooming products affected too? Yes. Shaving creams, aftershave, and men's skincare products can contain PFAS. The same guidelines apply – check ingredients and choose PFAS-free alternatives.
### Does washing off makeup remove the PFAS exposure risk? Partially. By the time you remove makeup at the end of the day, significant absorption has already occurred. The 8-12 hours of wear time is the primary exposure window.
You can Check your water quality by zip code to see if your area is affected. If you're looking for solutions, Find water filters that remove PFAS certified for removal. For more details on what's in your tap water, Get a detailed water quality report for your area.
Check your water now. Enter your zip code at KnowYourExposure.com to see what contaminants have been detected in your local water supply – including PFAS, lead, and other regulated compounds.