These “forever chemicals” are characterized by the fact that, due to their artificial production, they are very resistant to influences such as heat, moisture or chemicals and are therefore not or hardly degradable. They can also increase the risk of kidney and testicular cancer and cause low birth weight in babies.
PFAS ingredients have been found in face creams, face masks and makeup such as eye shadow and powder. Products from well-known brands such as L’Oreal, Biotherm and Douglas contained these substances. A total of four different (and therefore most) PFAS compounds were found in a face mask.
About the test result:
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Why do cosmetics contain PFAS?
These are used because of their skin and hair care effect as well as the ability to combine fat with water using PFAS. They also stabilize the consistency, regulate the viscosity and leave a thin film on the skin. PFAS are also added as a solvent or cleaning surfactant. In addition to their use in cosmetic products, PFAS are contained in coatings on rain jackets, pans and dishes as well as in fire extinguishers.
How dangerous are PFAS?
PFAS are absorbed through air, skin, water or food and bind to proteins in the blood in the body. They are excreted extremely slowly, which leads to an accumulation in the body. PFAS pass into breast milk and accumulate in the child’s organism during breastfeeding. Possible health effects that can be caused by PFAS include increased cholesterol levels, developmental damage in the unborn child, and the development of kidney and testicular cancer in adults. The European Chemicals Agency ECHA has classified various subgroups of PFAS as suspected carcinogens and reproductive toxicants, meaning they can harm the child in the womb and infants through breast milk.
Are PFAS also a danger in Austria?
During a study of Austrian school children in 2020, PFAS substances were detected in their urine. PFAS were also detected in more than a quarter of all groundwater measuring points examined in Austria. Long-term accumulation in the body is particularly problematic. Although several hundred PFAS compounds have now been banned, their longevity means that exposure to PFAS will continue for many years. Further bans and restrictions on other PFAS are currently being investigated. A general, EU-wide restriction on these “forever chemicals” is also being discussed. In addition, there is a “PFAS action plan” in Austria.
