,
1 min read
The beauty industry is undergoing a major global transformation. The states across the U.S. are moving to ban PFAS (Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances), often called “forever chemicals,” from cosmetic products. Similarly, Japan bans the use of 138 PFAS in Cosmetics under the Chemical Substances Control Law (CSCL), effective 10 January 2025, prohibiting their manufacture, import, and use in cosmetic products unless an exemption applies.
As consumers demand cleaner, safer beauty products, regulators are cracking down on ingredients linked to long-term environmental and health risks. So why are PFAS being pushed out of makeup bags everywhere?
What Makes PFAS a Problem in Beauty?
PFAS are a large family of over 10,000 synthetic chemicals known for their water- and oil-resistant properties, which is why they’ve appeared in long-wear foundations, mascaras, lipstick, and “smudge-proof” formulations. Their strong carbon-fluorine bonds make them incredibly durable but also nearly impossible for the environment or the human body to break down.
Studies have linked PFAS exposure to serious health issues, including immune disruption, hormone interference, and even increased cancer risk. These chemicals accumulate over time, meaning repeated use of PFAS-containing Cosmetics can contribute to long-term buildup in the body.
State Bans Are Now Targeting Cosmetics
As awareness grows, states are stepping in. In 2026, a wave of new restrictions is taking effect:
- Connecticut, Maine, Vermont, and others have begun phasing out PFAS containing Cosmetics, either through bans, reporting requirements, or mandatory labels indicating when PFAS are present.
- Some states require visible labeling on cosmetic products that contain intentionally added PFAS, giving consumers transparency at the point of purchase.
- Others are enacting outright sales bans on PFAS-containing products, prompting brands to reformulate rapidly to stay compliant.
This shift isn’t isolated to the beauty aisle. PFAS restrictions are expanding across categories such as cookware, textiles, and children’s products, among others. But Cosmetics stand out because they’re applied directly to skin, lips, and eyes, etc., making exposure more intimate and frequent.
Why PFAS Free Beauty Matters
The movement to eliminate PFAS is fundamentally about protecting long-term health and reducing environmental accumulation. As bans tighten, beauty brands have an opportunity to innovate with safer, high-performance alternatives that don't rely on persistent chemicals.
For consumers, PFAS-free beauty means cleaner routines, greater transparency, and trust that the products they love aren’t compromising their wellbeing.
Regulations can change, but your commitment to PFAS‑free, compliant beauty shouldn’t. Stay ahead with Freyr by your side.
