Is Your Skincare Really Safe? The Case for PFAS-Free Products:
If you or your loved one is living with eczema or sensitive skin, you know how important it is to find skincare that’s not just gentle—but truly safe. With so many “natural,” “organic,” or “clean” products on the shelves, it can feel overwhelming. But there’s one hidden ingredient group that’s often overlooked—and it may be one of the most important to avoid: PFAS.
What is PFAS? And Why Should you Avoid it in Skincare?
PFAS (Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are a large group of synthetic chemicals used in everything from nonstick pans to waterproof mascara. They’re often called “forever chemicals” because they don’t easily break down in the body or the environment.
What are the PFAS Health Effects?
PFAS can affect the body over time. Studies show that PFAS may be linked to:
A 2024 study even showed that PFAS can interfere with early skin development, affecting how skin cells grow and repair (Zhao et al., 2024). For someone with eczema, where the skin barrier is already fragile, that’s a serious concern.
PFAS and Eczema Risk in Babies: What the Science Says
According to a study published in Environmental Health, exposure to PFAS during pregnancy can increase the risk of your baby developing eczema—especially in girls. This underscores the importance of choosing PFAS-free skincare not just for children, but for pregnant women too.
Can PFAS Be Absorbed Through the Skin?
Most people are shocked to learn this—but PFAS aren’t listed on ingredient labels. They can sneak into skincare and even organic and "clean" creams, cosmetics and serums through:
That means even “eco” or “clean beauty” brands can be contaminated, as can baby products and eczema creams.
PFAS in Skincare: Major Skincare Brands Have Been Sued Over Hidden PFAS
You read that right—some top skincare companies (including a natural bee-based company) have faced lawsuits after independent testing found synthetic PFAS in their "natural” and "eco-friendly" products. Even trusted brands don't understand the impact of PFAS and customers are angry at being misled by false green claims.
Why PFAS-Free Skincare Truly Matters
Forever chemicals and teflon don't belong in skincare. At Skin Friend, we don’t take shortcuts or make assumptions. So far we have independently tested Eczema Friend and 24-Hour Rescue and found there are no detectable PFAS. And our other products are being tested to ensure they are also PFAS-free. Plus our products are:
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Steroid-free
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Fragrance (parfum) free
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Safe for daily use—even around the eyes
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Ideal for babies, children and adults, including those with ultra-sensitive skin
Eczema-prone skin doesn’t just need moisture—it needs protection. And PFAS does not belong in clean beauty products (or anything you smear on your skin!).
We Believe PFAS-Free Isn’t Optional—It’s Essential
We want the best for our families and customers, and we know how frustrating it is to try product after product, only to end up with more flare-ups, more reactions and more uncertainty. That’s why we built our brand around trust, transparency and testing.
Protect your skin—and your whole body—by choosing PFAS-free skincare that meets the highest safety standards.
Click for references
References:
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Zhao, M., et al. (2024). Understanding the effects of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances on early skin development. Science of The Total Environment.
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ATSDR. (2021). Toxicological Profile for Perfluoroalkyls. U.S. Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry.
- Mokra K. Endocrine Disruptor Potential of Short- and Long-Chain Perfluoroalkyl Substances (PFASs) - A Synthesis of Current Knowledge with Proposal of Molecular Mechanism. Int J Mol Sci. 2021 Feb 21;22(4):2148. doi: 10.3390/ijms22042148. PMID: 33670069; PMCID: PMC7926449.
- Bline AP, DeWitt JC, Kwiatkowski CF, Pelch KE, Reade A, Varshavsky JR. Public Health Risks of PFAS-Related Immunotoxicity Are Real. Curr Environ Health Rep. 2024 Jun;11(2):118-127. doi: 10.1007/s40572-024-00441-y. Epub 2024 Mar 25. PMID: 38526771; PMCID: PMC11081924.
- Chen Q, Huang R, Hua L, Guo Y, Huang L, Zhao Y, Wang X, Zhang J. Prenatal exposure to perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances and childhood atopic dermatitis: a prospective birth cohort study. Environ Health. 2018 Jan 17;17(1):8. doi: 10.1186/s12940-018-0352-7. PMID: 29343261; PMCID: PMC5773146.
Karen Fischer
Karen Fischer is a registered nutritionist, award-winning author, and skin health expert with over 20 years of experience. With a Bachelor of Health Science (BHSc) and ongoing PhD research in eczema, she developed science-backed, toxin-free solutions that have helped thousands. As the founder of Skin Friend, Karen formulates innovative skincare and supplements endorsed by doctors and dermatologists. She’s the author of seven health books, including The Healthy Skin Diet, The Eczema Detox and The Eczema Diet, and her research is set for publication in 2025. Featured in Marie Claire, Cosmopolitan, and Sky News, Karen is dedicated to helping people achieve healthy, resilient skin.
