Many cosmetics and sunscreens contain PFAS (or ‘forever chemicals’) that have been linked to various health problems.
This is worrying, as recent University of Birmingham research has found these chemicals may be absorbed directly through the skin. You are most likely to find PFAS in waterproof formulas and in chemical – rather than mineral – sun-protection products.
Abi Weeds at organic skincare brand Odylique says it’s possible to formulate sunscreen without PFAS – and certified organic skincare is guaranteed not to include PFAS or PFAS-associated ingredients.
“There’s a wealth of alternatives that provide similar conditioning and smoothing effects,” she says. “Waterproofing is achievable by using water-free formulae and/or natural plant waxes.”
It’s worth scanning ingredients and avoiding products that include words beginning perfluoro- or polyfluoro- or the acronyms PTFE or PAPS. Not all display their ingredients, so choose brands that are clear about what their products contain.
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