Most PFAS in Cosmetics Sold in US and Canada are Undisclosed

A new study led by Graham Peaslee of the University of Notre Dame found per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in cosmetics in the US and Canada; however, they are rarely disclosed on ingredient labels. Less than 8% of more than 200 products evaluated listed PFAS on their label despite over 50% of products containing fluorine (suggesting the presence of PFAS). A subsequent detailed evaluation of 29 products using mass spectroscopy confirmed the presence of PFAS in all 29 products, with 20 products containing relatively high levels.

In response to the study’s findings, US Senators Susan Collins (R-ME) and Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) introduced the proposed No PFAs in Cosmetics Act which would ban manufacturers from intentionally adding PFAS to cosmetics.