PFAS in Makeup: What Are Forever Chemicals and Are They Safe?
This week, Professor Caitriona Ryan, Consultant Dermatologist and co-founder of the Institute of Dermatologists, joined Anton Savage on Newstalk Breakfast to discuss a significant vote taking place at the European Parliament: a proposal to ban PFAS chemicals from cosmetic products across the EU.
Here is what you need to know.
What are PFAS chemicals?
PFAS stands for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances. They are a large group of manufactured chemicals used across many industries, including cosmetics, because of their ability to repel water and oil and create long-lasting, durable formulas.
They are commonly referred to as "forever chemicals" because they do not break down easily in the environment, in water, or in the human body. Once present, they persist.
Where are PFAS found in makeup and skincare?
PFAS are most commonly found in makeup products designed for durability or water resistance. These include:
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Ultra long-wear foundations and concealers
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Waterproof mascaras and eyeliners
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Long-lasting and transfer-proof lipsticks and lip stains
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Some sunscreens and primers
They are less commonly found in everyday skincare formulated for hydration, repair, or treatment purposes. The presence of PFAS is not always disclosed on product ingredient labels, which is part of what makes this legislation significant.
What are the health concerns associated with PFAS?
PFAS chemicals have been associated with serious health risks in research settings, including increased risk of certain cancers, particularly kidney cancer and testicular cancer, as well as disruption to the endocrine (hormone) system and immune function.
However, it is important to be precise about the context of this evidence. As Professor Caitriona Ryan explained on Newstalk Breakfast, the documented risks have been observed in populations exposed to high concentrations of PFAS over long periods of time, typically through contaminated drinking water or industrial exposure.
The evidence that PFAS in makeup products causes harm when applied topically to the skin is not yet established. Skin does not absorb substances in the same way as the digestive system. That said, there are legitimate concerns, particularly around lip products, where there is a real possibility of incidental ingestion over time.
As Professor Ryan noted: "Even small amounts, you just don't know what things can do over time, especially in a genetically predisposed person."
What is the EU proposing to do about PFAS in cosmetics?
The European Parliament has voted on legislation that would prohibit the use of PFAS chemicals in cosmetic products sold within the EU. This is part of a broader regulatory push to reduce human and environmental exposure to these persistent chemicals.
The Institute of Dermatologists welcomes this move. The absence of proven harm in a topical cosmetic context is not the same as proven safety, and given the number of effective and well-characterised alternatives available to formulators, restricting their use in cosmetics is a reasonable and precautionary measure.
Are PFAS in makeup avoidable?
Yes. PFAS are not present in all cosmetics and they are avoidable with a degree of label awareness. The challenge is that they are not always clearly disclosed on packaging.
As a general guide:
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Products marketed as ultra long-wear, waterproof, or transfer-proof are more likely to contain PFAS
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Ingredients to look out for include anything beginning with "fluoro" or "perfluoro" on the INCI (ingredient) list
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Standard skincare products, moisturisers, serums, and most SPFs do not typically contain PFAS
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Choosing formulations from brands that publish full ingredient transparency reduces your exposure risk
What should you do if you are concerned about PFAS in your routine?
The simplest and most practical step is to reduce reliance on ultra-processed, ultra-long-wear makeup formulations. Reapplying a lipstick or a concealer is not a significant inconvenience, and the precautionary benefit is worth considering.
For skincare specifically, focus on medical-grade formulations from brands with clear ingredient transparency. If you are uncertain about products you are currently using, a consultation with a dermatologist can help you review your routine in the context of your skin health and any personal risk factors.
A note on the Newstalk Breakfast interview
Professor Caitriona Ryan discussed this topic on Newstalk Breakfast with Anton Savage on Thursday, 29th April 2026. Many thanks to Anton Savage and the Newstalk team for the opportunity to discuss this important topic with their audience.
