Why PFAS Appears in Cosmetics
PFAS compounds provide functional benefits in cosmetic formulations including spreadability, water resistance, durability, and a smooth skin feel. PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) appears as an anti-caking agent in loose powders; perfluorocarbon compounds provide water resistance in mascaras and foundations marketed as long-wearing or waterproof; and fluorinated polymers are used in lip gloss, lipstick, and eye shadow formulations. The cosmetics industry has historically used PFAS without comprehensive regulatory oversight for the functional class.
Dermal Absorption Pathway
PFAS in cosmetics creates a dermal exposure pathway that is distinct from drinking water or food consumption. Research on PFAS skin penetration has found that some compounds in cosmetic formulations can be absorbed through intact skin at rates sufficient to contribute meaningfully to blood PFAS levels, particularly with prolonged daily application of multiple products containing PFAS. The dermis’s lipid barrier provides some protection, but smaller molecular weight PFAS compounds may penetrate more readily than larger ones.
Federal and State Regulation
Federal cosmetics regulation under the FDA has historically lacked pre-market safety assessment requirements, leaving PFAS use in cosmetics largely self-regulated by the industry. California became the first state to ban intentionally added PFAS in cosmetics under its 2022 PFAS in Cosmetics Prohibition Act, effective in 2025. Similar legislation has been proposed in multiple other states, and the FDA has begun exploring cosmetic PFAS safety under authority provided by the Modernization of Cosmetics Regulation Act of 2022.
Practical Exposure Reduction
Consumers seeking to reduce PFAS exposure from personal care products can check ingredient labels for PTFE, perfluorocarbon, perfluorodecalin, perfluorononyl dimethicone, and related fluorinated compounds. Several apps and databases now allow consumers to check cosmetic products for PFAS presence. Choosing PFAS-free alternatives for products applied daily and in large quantities — moisturizers, foundations, and lipsticks — provides the greatest reduction in cosmetic PFAS exposure.