What are "forever" chemicals in cosmetics being banned by some countries

Forever chemicals are the per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), a class of human-made chemicals. PFAS are widely used in various consumer products, including cosmetics like foundations, eyeliners and mascaras, due to their water- and grease-resistant properties. These are synthetic compounds known for their strong chemical bonds, making them resistant to degradation.

New Zealand becomes one of the first countries to ban PFAS or forever chemicals in cosmetics from December 31, 2026. The Environmental Protection Authority said it will ban long-lasting substances perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl -- known as PFAS or "forever chemicals" -- by 2027. "Our concern is they don't break down, either in the body or the environment," Shaun Presow from the Environmental Protection Authority told AFP on Wednesday. "As they accumulate, they have been linked to a range of harmful effects, like some cancers and hormonal issues." The cosmetics industry has until December 31, 2026 to phase out the use of the chemicals. New Zealand will also ban the use of PFAS in firefighting foams from December 2025.

PFAS refers to a class of 14,000 chemicals that are typically used in consumer products to make them water-resistant. One of the primary concerns associated with PFAS is their persistence in the environment. Once released, these chemicals do not easily break down, leading to long-term contamination of soil, water, and air. This persistence has raised alarms about the potential accumulation of PFAS in ecosystems and their impact on wildlife.

Studies have suggested potential health risks associated with PFAS exposure. Given the widespread use of PFAS in consumer products, including cosmetics, there is growing concern about the cumulative exposure of individuals to these chemicals. PFAS are highly persistent in the environment and can accumulate in living organisms, a phenomenon known as bioaccumulation. This means that once PFAS enter the human body, they tend to persist and accumulate over time. The half-lives of certain PFAS compounds in the human body can range from years to decades, contributing to prolonged exposure and potential health risks.

There is growing evidence suggesting an association between PFAS exposure and an increased risk of certain cancers. While the exact mechanisms are still under investigation, some studies have indicated potential links between PFAS and cancers such as kidney and testicular cancer. The persistent nature of PFAS and their ability to accumulate in organs raises concerns about long-term cancer risks.

PFAS exposure has been linked to liver damage and disturbances in liver functionality. Studies have shown that high levels of PFAS in the blood may be associated with increased liver enzymes, indicating potential liver injury. The liver plays a crucial role in detoxification, and any impairment in its function can have widespread health implications.

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Certain PFAS compounds, such as perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS), have been associated with disruptions in thyroid hormone levels. Thyroid hormones play a crucial role in regulating metabolism, growth, and development. Any interference with thyroid function can lead to a range of health issues, including metabolic imbalances and developmental complications.

Studies have suggested that PFAS exposure may impact lipid metabolism, leading to changes in cholesterol levels. Elevated levels of PFAS in the blood have been associated with alterations in lipid profiles, potentially contributing to cardiovascular risks such as high cholesterol and triglycerides. These changes in lipid metabolism may be linked to an increased risk of heart diseases.

There is emerging research suggesting potential neurodevelopmental effects associated with PFAS exposure. Prenatal exposure to certain PFAS compounds has been linked to adverse effects on neurodevelopment, including cognitive deficits and behavioral issues in children. The ability of PFAS to cross the placental barrier and affect fetal development raises concerns about their impact on the developing nervous system.