How to recognize PFAS-free cosmetics

Just read the ingredients list and check for the presence of certain very specific ingredients. In some cases, the label may be "PFAS-free."

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How to recognize PFAS-free cosmetics
To recognize a cosmetic without Pfas(Perfluoroalkyl and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances) can be tricky because they are not always clearly labeled.
However, there are a series of indications, easy to gather, by reading the INCI (International nomenclature of cosmetic ingredients), basically the ingredients list. PFAS can appear with complex names that often contain some suffixes that should absolutely be avoided:
  • "fluorine", “perfluoro”, “PTFE”, “polyfluoro”, “PFOA”, “PFOS”, “fluorinated”

More common examples in cosmetics are:

  • PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene)
  • perfluorodecalin
  • Perfluorooctyl trisiloxane
A second clue to cosmetics to avoid is that of products that are too silky and that last a long time.

In fact, PFAS are often used for:

  • Effect waterproof / long-lasting (lipsticks, mascara, foundation)
  • Texture silky or smoothing

It's not an absolute rule, but super-bright or ultra-durable products may contain them.

Finally, some brands are starting to explicitly declare “PFAS-free” or “free from perfluoroalkyl substances.”

In any case, the trend will increasingly move in the direction of banning the use of PFAS in cosmetics.

La France became one of the first states in the world to adopt a national law banning the intentional use of PFAS in cosmetics (as well as textiles and other consumer goods).

  • The ban on the manufacture, import, sale or placing on the market of cosmetics containing PFAS is in force from January 1, 2026.
  • There is a transitional period during which products already manufactured can still be sold until the end of 2026, but after that it is prohibited.

La New Zealand announced that The use of PFAS in cosmetics will be banned from 2026 with a detailed calendar:

  • Ban on the import or production of cosmetics containing PFAS by the 31 December 2026.
  • Ban on sale and supply in the country by December 31, 2027.
  • Take back and dispose of all PFAS products by June 30, 2028.

In United States there is not yet a complete federal ban of PFAS in cosmetics, but several states have adopted laws that ban or restrict the intentional use of PFAS in cosmetics or consumer products, with implementation phases between 2025 and 2030 (e.g. in states such as California, Maine, Minnesota, Colorado and others). However, federal regulation (at the FDA level) is still evolving.

Finally, the health risks. PFAS in cosmetics represent a risk above all because they are substances highly persistent, bioaccumulative and potentially toxic.

These are the main risks they pose to human health.

  • Skin absorption: even though the skin is a barrier, some PFAS can penetrate and accumulate in the body.
  • Bioaccumulation: Once they enter the body, they can remain for years, mainly in the blood, liver and kidneys.
  • Effects on the endocrine system: can interfere with hormones, affecting the thyroid, fertility and hormonal development.
  • Possible cancer risks: epidemiological studies suggest associations between PFAS and some types of cancer (e.g. renal, testicular).
  • Effects on the liver and kidneys: alterations in cholesterol levels, liver enzymes and possible oxidative stress.
  • Risks for pregnancy and development: high exposures can affect fetal development and growth of newborns.

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