PFASs in cosmetics: Dangerous eternity chemicals

Perfluorinated and polyfluorinated alkyl substances (PFAS) have long since found their way into our everyday lives - including in cosmetics. This group of substances comprises several thousand compounds that are valued for their water, grease and dirt-repellent properties. In creams, make-up or sun creams, they provide pleasant textures, long-lasting adhesion or waterproof formulations. But the shiny effects have a dark side: PFAS are considered "eternal chemicals".

What are PFAS?

PFAS are synthetic compounds whose chemical structure is characterised by particularly stable carbon-fluorine bonds. This stability means that they are practically non-degradable in the environment. Once released, PFAS are distributed worldwide via air, water and soil - they can even be detected in remote regions such as the Arctic.

PFAS in Germany: Where and how strong?

In Germany, more than 1,500 sites are contaminated with PFAS, over 300 of which are categorised as particularly hazardous hotspots. The pollution affects contaminated soil, water and groundwater, for example through the use of PFAS-containing extinguishing foam or industrial production. Particularly affected regions are located in Baden-Württemberg, Saxony, Saxony-Anhalt and North Rhine-Westphalia, including Düsseldorf Airport and the Anhalt-Bitterfeld district.

This widespread contamination represents a serious environmental problem, as PFAS remain and accumulate in soils and water cycles. The contamination is so widespread that entire urban areas and industrial sites are affected.

Hazards due to PFAS

PFAS accumulate in the organism of humans and animals. Studies show correlations with:

• Disorders of the immune system
• Increased risk of certain cancers
• Impairment of the liver and hormone balance
• Developmental disorders in foetuses and children

Their persistence and potential health risks make PFAS one of the most worrying environmental toxins of our time.

PFAS in cosmetics

PFAS are used in cosmetics to make products water and dirt repellent, durable and pleasant in texture. Consumers can find these substances under various names in the INCI list, such as PTFE or perfluoroalkyl compounds. As PFAS are hardly biodegradable, they end up in waste water after use and contribute to environmental pollution.

Where can you find the PFAS hotspots?

A comprehensive map of PFAS hotspots in Germany and Europe is part of the international "Forever Pollution Project". The detailed map shows affected areas, industrial plants and pollution hotspots:

PFAS hotspots in Germany - Forever Pollution Map

Regulation and current situation

The Federal Environment Agency and the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) are striving for a comprehensive ban on PFAS. There is still a transitional period in the EU until a final decision is made, while some companies are voluntarily phasing out their use.

What can consumers do?

• Check the INCI list for PFAS-related substances.
• Prefer PFAS-free natural cosmetics.
• Ask manufacturers specifically about PFAS use.

Conclusion

PFAS in cosmetics and other products are an example of an industrial innovation with serious long-term consequences for the environment and health. While they improve product properties, they harbour considerable risks. Tackling the PFAS problem is one of the major challenges for environmental protection in Germany and Europe.

Sources:

German Environment Agency (2020) & European Chemicals Agency ECHA (2023)

Research by NDR, WDR, Süddeutsche Zeitung, 2023: Tagesschau - Where the poison of the century PFAS is polluting Germany

Forever Pollution Project: PFAS hotspot map