To assess this potential health and environmental risk, 231 cosmetic products purchased in the U.S. and Canada were screened for total fluorine using particle-induced gamma-ray emission spectroscopy. Of the 8 categories tested, foundations, mascaras, and lip products had the highest proportion of products with high total fluorine ≥0.384 μg F/cm2

3/4 of waterproof mascara samples contained high fluorine concentrations, as did ~2/3 of foundations and liquid lipsticks, and more than 1/2 of the eye and lip products tested.

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), a highly persistent and potentially toxic class of chemicals, are added to cosmetics to increase their durability and water resistance.

High fluorine levels were found in products commonly advertised as 'wear-resistant' to water and oils or ‘long-lasting,’ including foundations, liquid lipsticks, and waterproof mascaras.

The ingredient lists of most products tested did
NOT disclose the presence of fluorinated compounds exposing a gap in U.S. and Canadian labeling laws.

The manufacture, use, and disposal of cosmetics containing PFAS are all potential opportunities for health and ecosystem harm.