If you've been scrolling through beauty news lately, you've probably seen the term "PFAS" popping up everywhere.
Maybe you've wondered what it actually means and whether you should be worried about what's in your makeup bag. Let's break it down in a way that makes sense, no chemistry degree required.
What Are PFAS, Anyway?
PFAS stands for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, which is a fancy way of saying "forever chemicals." They're synthetic chemicals that manufacturers add to cosmetics on purpose to make products last longer, resist water, and glide on smoothly. Think of them as the ingredients that help your waterproof mascara survive a tearjerker movie or keep your foundation looking fresh all day.
The problem? These chemicals don't break down. Ever. They stick around in the environment and in your body indefinitely, which is exactly how they earned that "forever chemicals" nickname.
Why Beauty Brands Use PFAS
Here's the thing: PFAS are really good at their job. They make products water-resistant, oil-resistant, and help them smooth across your skin beautifully. They keep colors vibrant and help makeup stay put through humidity, sweat, and everyday life.
You know how nonstick pans are coated with something that keeps eggs from sticking? Or how waterproof jackets repel rain? Same concept. If a product promises to be "long-lasting" or "waterproof," there's a decent chance PFAS are part of the formula.
The Products You Should Know About
Recent research tested over 200 cosmetic products, and the results were eye-opening. Here's where PFAS showed up most often:
- 82% of waterproof mascaras tested positive
- 63% of foundations
- 62% of liquid lipsticks
- 58% of eyeshadows, eye creams, and eyeliners
- 56% of foundations and eye products showed high fluorine levels
- 48% of lip products
- 47% of mascaras
PFAS also turn up in lotions, cleansers, nail polish, shaving cream, blush, and concealers. Basically, if it's designed to last or resist water, it's worth checking the label.
Why This Matters for Your Health
Look, we're not here to scare you. But it's worth knowing what the research shows. Studies have linked certain PFAS to serious health issues including kidney cancer, testicular cancer, hypertension, thyroid disease, low birth weight, and immune problems in children.
The main concern is that these chemicals are highly persistent. Once they're in your bloodstream, they don't leave. They accumulate over time instead of breaking down naturally, which is why scientists are paying attention.
How to Shop for Non Toxic Makeup
Ready to clean up your routine? Here's your game plan for finding clean makeup and clean beauty brands that actually work:
Read the Ingredient List
Start checking labels for these common PFAS compounds:
- Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE)
- Perfluorononyl dimethicone
- Perfluorohexylethyl triethoxysilane
- Methyl perfluorobutyl ether
The tricky part? Not all products list PFAS clearly on their packaging. Some brands might not even know they're in there if they're using contaminated ingredients.
Use Trusted Resources
The EWG's Skin Deep database is your friend here. It's a free online tool that helps you identify products containing known PFAS ingredients. Just search for a product before you buy, and you'll get a breakdown of what's actually in it.
Rethink "Waterproof"
If a product advertises itself as waterproof or water-resistant, ask yourself if you really need that feature. Regular mascara works great for everyday wear. Save the waterproof stuff for beach days or weddings: or skip it altogether.
Non-waterproof alternatives are way less likely to contain PFAS, and they're usually easier to remove at the end of the day anyway. For an everyday option, check out our Botanical Mascara, which is designed to be gentle (including for sensitive eyes) without leaning on that “waterproof” claim.
Shop at Retailers Who Care
This is where stores like Nature's Glow Emporium come in. When retailers focus on natural and organic beauty, they're already doing the heavy lifting for you. They curate clean beauty brands and non toxic makeup options so you don't have to research every single product yourself. If you want a few easy swaps to start with, take a peek at our Hydrating Lipstick with Cupuaçu Butter, Vegan Lip Stains, and Creamy Vegan Bronzing Stick.
Look for retailers who are transparent about their standards and actually explain why they choose the brands they carry.
Look for Third-Party Certifications
Certifications from organizations like USDA Organic, Leaping Bunny, or EWG Verified give you extra peace of mind. They mean an independent group has verified that products meet specific safety and transparency standards.
Ask Questions
Don't be shy about reaching out to brands or retailers if you can't find clear information. A company that's serious about clean beauty will be happy to answer your questions about their ingredients and sourcing.
The FDA's Take on PFAS
In December 2025, the FDA published a comprehensive report on PFAS safety in cosmetics, providing updated guidance on their use and risks. While regulations are still evolving, it's a sign that the conversation around these chemicals is getting louder and more official.
Your Takeaway
Here's the bottom line: PFAS are in a lot more beauty products than most people realize, especially in anything marketed as long-lasting or waterproof. While we're still learning about all the long-term effects, there's enough research to make switching to cleaner options a smart move.
The good news? You don't have to throw out your entire makeup collection tomorrow or stress about every single product. Start small. Maybe swap your foundation first, or try a non-waterproof mascara. Choose retailers who prioritize clean beauty brands and make transparency a priority.
Shopping for non toxic makeup doesn't mean sacrificing quality or performance. It just means being a little more intentional about what you're putting on your skin every single day. And honestly? That feels pretty empowering.
Want to explore cleaner beauty options? Check out Nature's Glow Emporium's collections to discover brands that put your health first.
Sources:
- FDA Report on PFAS in Cosmetics (December 2025)
- Research study testing 200+ cosmetic products for PFAS contamination
- EWG's Skin Deep Database
- Environmental health research on PFAS persistence
- Clinical studies on PFAS health effects
