What you should know about ‘Forever Chemicals’
Toxic, ‘Forever Chemicals’, also known as PFAS (per and polyfluoroalkyl
substances) have been receiving increased attention in the media highlighting
their potential health risks, as well as environmental impact. Offering water and
grease resistant properties, these chemicals are not only used in industrial
applications, but have also been found in personal care products.
What exactly are PFAS?
A group of over 4,000 chemical compounds, PFAS chemicals are non-degradable,
bio-accumulative, toxic substances. Unfortunately their non-degradable quality
earned them the title ‘Forever Chemicals’ as they persist in the environment and
worse still, human bodies for extended periods of time.
Where are PFAS found?
This group of chemicals are widely used in food packaging, including food wraps and containers, household products, such as non-stick cookware and cleaning products, as well as cosmetics, some skincare and haircare products which offer water and stain resistant properties. Some communities have also reported PFAS-
contaminated water supplies, which may be ingested through the water supply.
PFAS in personal care products
Yes, alarming as it may sound, PFAS can be found in personal care products. In
fact, Bloomberg.com reported that the US Food and Drug Administration had
collected information on 31 PFAS, short for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, in
570 cosmetic products in use during the 12 months ending in March 2023. Here’s
where they are being found.
~ Cosmetics: Found in some lipsticks, foundations, mascaras, eye shadows
and eyeliners for their water and smudge resistant properties.
~ Hair care: Shampoos, conditioners and styling products may include PFAS to
smooth and condition the hair, making it appear shiny. PFAS are also used to
effect product consistency and texture.
~ Skincare: Moisturisers and Sunscreens may contain PFAS for their ability to
create a barrier against water and perspiration.
~ Dental Products: Look for PFAS in mouthwashes and toothpaste for their
stain repelling properties.
What exactly is the problem with PFAS?
Ongoing research is uncovering the potential health risks associated with PFAS
exposure. According to the ‘US National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences’, these forever chemicals are associated with:
~ Hormone Disruption: PFAS can disrupt the normal function of hormone
regulation, resulting in issues with reproductive hormones and even delayed
childhood developmental issues.
~ Immune System Impact: Research suggests PFAS can weaken the immune
response, increasing susceptibility to infections, as well as reducing the
effectiveness of vaccines.
~ Cancer Risks: Some studies have associated specific PFAS compounds with
an increased risk of kidney and testicular cancers.
~ Increased Cholesterol: PFAS exposure may contribute to higher cholesterol
levels, increasing the risk of heart disease according to research.
How can I identify products containing PFAS?
Whilst not all manufacturers disclose all ingredients in their products, there are a few guidelines to identifying these forever chemicals that you can follow:
~ Check product ingredients: Look for specific terms in the ingredients list
such as, Fluoro-, Perfluoro-, Polyfluoro and Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA)
and perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS). This will generally appear at the
beginning or somewhere in the middle of the ingredient name, for example,
‘TRIFLUOROPROPYL’ or ‘FLUOROALCOHOL’ and the very well hidden,
‘ACRYLATES/PERFLUOROHEXYLETHYL METHACRYLATE COPOLYMER’
~ Accountable Brands: Some brands openly disclose their ingredients and
safety practices. Look for safety information and safety datasheets on their
website.
~ Delve a little deeper: If you’re unsure about whether a product contains
PFAS, you could try contacting the manufacturer.
~ Choose Safer Brands: Look for brands that explicitly state they are PFAS-
free. Many companies are now reformulating their products to eliminate these
chemicals.
~ Support Legislation: Advocate for stronger regulations regarding the use of
PFAS in consumer products. Some states are beginning to take action to limit
or ban PFAS in cosmetics and personal care items.
~ Stay Informed: Keep up with news and research on PFAS in consumer
products. Advocacy groups and environmental organizations often publish
reports or lists of products containing PFAS.
What is the Australian Government doing about PFAS?
The Commonwealth has effectively banned the import, use and manufacture of
some of the more prominent types of PFAS (PFOS, PFOA and PFHxS) from 1 July
2025.
Is NueBar PFAS free?
Naturopathy takes a holistic approach to wellness and aims to support the body’s
natural capacity to heal. Naturopath formulated products, like NueBar commonly
utilise herbal ingredients to support a person to optimum health. The highest
priority for a naturopath includes avoiding any ingredients that may be harmful or
irritating to the body, supporting the natural microbiome of the skin and scalp, and
thirdly using herbs and botanicals that actively support the body. NueBar
products are mindfully formulated by a Naturopath from organic rich ingredients, to support the individual needs of our loyal customers, whether it is for curly hair,
oily skin or hair, dry skin or those with sensitivities, omitting ingredients which
contain PFAS, SLS, Sulfates, Silicones or Parabens.