Cosmetics

Why is PFAS used in cosmetics?

PFAS are used to condition and smooth the skin, making it appear shiny, or to affect product consistency and texture. According to the Environmental Working Group's (EWG's) research, a variety of PFAS contaminants are listed as ingredients in 200 products from 28 different cosmetic and personal care brands. These include lotions, sunscreens, cleansers, nail polish, shaving cream, foundation, concealer, lipstick, eyeliner, eyeshadow, and mascara. Currently, manufacturers are only required to include mention of PFAS ingredients if they exceed 1% of the total ingredients.  

EPA Toxic Release Inventory (TRI) Guidelines

Why should I care?

The California State Assembly passed legislation (AB 2771) to ban the sale of cosmetics and personal care products in California that intentionally contain PFAS. AB 2771 prohibits the entire class of PFAS chemicals from being added to cosmetics and personal care products. As stated, the bill prohibits any person or entity, beginning January 1, 2025, from manufacturing, selling, delivering, holding, or offering for sale any cosmetic product that contains intentionally added perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). The bill is now in the California State Senate and is expected to pass and become law. This should represent a call to action for everyone in the cosmetics and personal care products industry.

Are there currently legal ramifications for PFAS in cosmetics?

To date, lawsuits have been filed against BareMinerals, Covergirl, L’Oreal, and Burt’s Bees for false advertising after testing showed dangerous levels of PFAS in their ‘clean’ ‘organic’ products. Is your current cosmetic manufacturing processes also at risk? Contact us to learn more.