PFAS & Forever Chemicals: Hiding in Your Home
- Bradley Bush, ND
- Jul 25
- 3 min read
PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances)—known as “forever chemicals”—are synthetic compounds prized for their water-, grease-, stain-, and heat-resistant properties. Their strong carbon–fluorine bonds make them incredibly durable in products and resistant to natural breakdown—hence the name. Unfortunately, that durability also means they build up in the environment and inside our bodies. PFAS have been linked to cancers, endocrine disruption, immune dysfunction, liver damage, and more.
What the Star Tribune Uncovered about PFAS
Despite state bans, enforcement and detection gaps remain, making consumer awareness essential. In March 2025, the Star Tribune purchased 20 everyday items across Minnesota to test for PFAS—and four products exceeded the state’s PFAS thresholds:
A frying pan (label disclosed PFAS; yet still on the shelf in Minnesota)
A child's waterproof glove
Two makeup items: a foundation and mascara
“A lot of makeup contains these types of chemicals... maybe less well known to the public.”
Despite Minnesota’s cutting-edge PFAS ban effective January 1, 2025 (covering cookware, cosmetics, carpets, upholstery, dental floss, ski wax, and more), these items still contained intentionally added PFAS.
PFAS in Fast Fashion & Inexpensive Electronics
Fast fashion and budget electronics aren’t just cost-effective—they may carry hidden PFAS. PFAS remain widespread in:
Water-repellent apparel, particularly fast-fashion rain jackets and athletic wear
Grease-, water-, and wrinkle-resistant fabrics, including carpets, upholstery, and children’s garments
Inexpensive electronics, where PFAS are used in circuit boards, batteries, gaskets, and insulation
Even as 3M phases out PFAS production, these chemicals persist in global supply chains—especially in cost-driven products where cheaper substitutes aren’t yet feasible.
Cosmetics: A Hidden Source of PFAS Exposure
Cosmetics are a stealthy PFAS gateway.
Nearly all forms of makeup—lipstick, foundation, mascara, blush, nail polish— can contain PFAS to enhance durability, texture, and shine.
PFAS may remain on your skin and be absorbed, sometimes via ingestion (e.g., lip products).
Cosmetics, especially waterproof or long-lasting ones, are a discreet yet constant exposure route
Long-term exposure contributes to bioaccumulation, posing serious health risks over time.
The Health Threat from Forever Chemicals
PFAS have been tied to a range of serious health issues:
Cancer: kidney, testicular, thyroid, prostate
Endocrine disruption: hormonal, reproductive, and thyroid conditions
Immune problems: reduced vaccine response, higher allergy/asthma rates
Liver damage, cholesterol elevation, developmental and metabolic issues
What You Can Do
Choose PFAS-free options.
Look for labels like “PFAS-free,” “PFOA-free,” or “fluorine-free.”
Opt for ceramic, stainless steel, or cast‑iron pans.
Select cosmetics from brands committed to PFAS-free formulations.
Avoid suspect materials.
Skip fast-fashion water-resistant fabrics if they aren’t labeled PFAS-free.
Don’t purchase glare-resistant electronics unless certified PFAS-free.
Support strong regulations.
Minnesota’s law led the nation—but enforcement is ongoing, and loopholes exist.
Federal regulation in the U.S. remains limited; consumer and legislative pressure is vital.
Advocate for safer supply chains. Demand transparency from brands and retailers about PFAS in their products.
Final Thoughts
PFAS aren’t just in our water—they’re woven into the items we wear, the tools we use, and even the makeup we apply. The latest Star Tribune findings show these chemicals persist in groceries, cosmetics, cookware, clothing, electronics—and particularly affect low-cost, high-use products. With serious health implications and no easy breakdown, PFAS require active avoidance and vigilant buying.
Be part of the solution: read labels, choose PFAS-free, and advocate for safer products. Your choices matter—and together, we can help reduce the footprint of forever chemicals in our everyday lives.
If you are concerned PFAS exposure may be contributing to your health concerns, urine and blood tests are available.
