Forever Chemicals In Skincare: New Report
Lululemon is currently under investigation by the state of Texas for its alleged use of PFAS, also known as forever chemicals, in its activewear products. The company has stated that some of their clothing used to contain PFAS, but they have transitioned away from forever chemicals as of 2023.
However, PFAS are still commonly used in various products, including clothing, cookware, skincare, and cosmetics. A recent study by the FDA found that over 1700 popular skincare and cosmetic items contained PFAS. With little oversight and regulation, forever chemicals are a real concern in certain skincare products.
Overview
- PFAS are known as “forever chemicals” because they accumulate in the body and the environment and can remain there for hundreds of years if not longer.
- Many daily skincare and cosmetics products contain forever chemicals.
- There is no nationwide ban against PFAS in personal care products, and no regulation for “contains PFAS” labeling on skincare and cosmetic products.
- How to choose the right products and avoid forever chemicals in skincare.
Read below to find out what exactly PFAS are, why they are commonly used, and how to avoid them, especially in products like skincare that are applied directly on the body.
What Are PFAS (Forever Chemicals)?
PFAS or Per/Polyfluoroalkyl Substances, often called “forever chemicals”, are a large group of human-made chemicals used since the 1940s for their water, oil, and heat-resistant properties.
These chemicals are often used in nonstick cookware, water-resistant clothing, food packaging (especially microwavable food packaging), stain-resistant carpets and furniture, as well as skincare and cosmetics.
PFAS are referred to as “forever chemicals” because they don’t break down easily and can accumulate in the environment. These chemicals are linked to a number of health risks.
Consumers have started to remove products containing PFAS from their usual purchases, but recent studies by the FDA have revealed that these forever chemicals may be present even when not labeled.
Are Forever Chemicals Banned In Skincare?
There is no nationwide ban on forever chemicals in skincare or cosmetics. This poses a major problem since personal care products are applied directly on the skin, lips, and hair.
Unfortunately, there is no regulation requiring companies to have a “contains PFAS” label on their products. In fact, since there are dozens of forever chemicals, most aren’t labeled as PFAS but as perfluoro- or polyfluoro-.
As of 2025, California has banned the intentional use of forever chemicals in skincare, makeup, hair products, and cosmetics.
All Lucin Organics products are PFAS-free. You can find PFAS and forever chemicals in our Banned Ingredients list.
What Skincare And Cosmetic Products Use Forever Chemicals?
The FDA found that forever chemicals were concentrated in certain personal care product categories:
- Face/Neck Skincare
- Eye Shadow
- Foundation
- Eyeliner
- Face Powder
The real issue here is that these products are used directly on the skin on a daily basis. The skin is the largest organ of the body and deserves proper care.
A lot of what is applied on the skin, from moisturizers and serums to sunscreen and makeup, can end up in the bloodstream. Which is why it's so important to choose natural products that work with the skin, not against it.
How To Choose Products Without Forever Chemicals
When buying skincare products, look for labels like “PFAS-Free”, and don’t waste your money on synthetic, toxic products full of parabens, fragrances, and phthalates.
At Lucin Organics, the health of your skin is at the core of our decision-making. Each formula is made with premium ingredients from countries with the highest agricultural and production standards, ensuring the highest quality formula.
We believe that it’s not skincare unless it actually cares for your skin. And that care starts with natural ingredients that deliver real results in a complex formula.
You can shop our complete PFAS-Free Skincare Routines here.