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Per‑ and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a vast class of more than 10,000 synthetic chemicals known for their exceptional resistance to water, oils, and heat. Their durability comes from strong carbon‑fluorine bonds, which also make them extremely persistent in the environment, earning them the label “forever chemicals.”

Why PFAS Are Used in Cosmetics

In the beauty industry, PFAS have been valued for their ability to enhance product performance. They help formulas become longer‑lasting, smoother, more spreadable, and resistant to smudging or moisture. According to the FDA’s MoCRA-mandated report, PFAS are found most frequently in eye shadows, leave‑on face products, eyeliners, face powders, mascaras, and foundations, where they improve conditioning, texture, and wear time.

Common PFAS used in Cosmetics include PTFE and other fluorinated compounds that create silky textures or form protective films on the skin. FDA listings show 51 intentionally added PFAS used across 1,744 cosmetic formulations, just 0.41% (as of Aug 2024) of all registered cosmetic products, indicating their targeted use in performance‑driven categories.

Why PFAS Raise Concerns

While they offer functional benefits, PFAS have come under scrutiny due to evidence of environmental persistence and bioaccumulation. Many PFAS have been linked to health concerns such as immune system effects, endocrine disruption, and increased cancer risk in broader toxicological studies. Their widespread environmental presence, from drinking water to soil, has intensified Regulatory attention worldwide.

Yet the FDA notes that toxicological data is incomplete for 76% of the most commonly used cosmetic PFAS, signaling a significant knowledge gap that may drive further Regulatory action. Only five PFAS currently carry a “low safety concern” classification under intended cosmetic use conditions.

Why This Matters for the Cosmetics Industry

With multiple U.S. states enacting bans and reporting requirements for intentionally added PFAS, cosmetic brands must now reassess formulations, strengthen supply‑chain transparency, and proactively plan for compliance. Understanding what PFAS are and how they’re used is foundational to navigating this rapidly evolving Regulatory landscape.

As regulations tighten, expert guidance can help you reformulate strategically, ensure global compliance, and protect your brand reputation.

Partner with Freyr for end‑to‑end Cosmetics Regulatory support from PFAS assessments and reformulation strategy to MoCRA compliance and state‑level reporting.

Contact Freyr today and stay ahead in the clean‑beauty era.