Skin Penetration: A Hidden Path for PFAS Exposure
Recent research has uncovered a potentially alarming new pathway for human exposure to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). These “forever chemicals,” found in numerous everyday PFAS products, may be capable of penetrating human skin, raising fresh concerns about their pervasive presence in our lives and environment.
5 Key Points
- PFAS can be found in everyday products like cosmetics, food packaging, and waterproof gear
- New study shows some PFAS can cross the skin barrier in laboratory conditions
- Shorter-chain PFAS appear to be more readily absorbed through the skin
- Skin absorption adds to known exposure routes like ingestion and inhalation
- More research is needed to understand the real-world implications of dermal PFAS exposure
The Silent Invasion: PFAS in Everyday Products
PFAS products have become ubiquitous in modern life, appearing in many daily items. These chemicals are prized for their ability to repel water and stains, making them popular additions to:
- School uniforms and other clothing
- Food packaging materials
- Cosmetics and personal care products
- Non-stick cookware
- Waterproof outdoor gear
The widespread use of PFAS products has led to their presence in our food, drinking water, and even indoor dust. This pervasiveness has raised significant concerns among scientists and health professionals, as mounting evidence links PFAS exposure to various health issues.
PFAS, often called “forever chemicals,” earned this moniker due to their remarkable stability. The carbon-fluorine solid bonds that make these chemicals so useful also make them incredibly resistant to degradation. This persistence means PFAS can accumulate in the environment and living organisms over time.
PFAS usage dates back to the 1940s when companies began mass-producing these chemicals. Initially hailed as a revolutionary advancement in material science, PFAS quickly found their way into numerous consumer and industrial applications. However, as research has progressed, the dark side of these miracle chemicals has come to light, revealing potential long-term health and environmental consequences.
Breaking Barriers: New Findings on PFAS Skin Absorption
A groundbreaking study conducted by environmental chemists at the University of Birmingham has shed light on a previously underexplored route of PFAS exposure: skin absorption. The research, published in Environment International, utilized 3-D human skin models to test the ability of various PFAS to penetrate the skin barrier.
Key findings from the study include:
- Out of 17 tested PFAS, 11 could cross the skin barrier.
- Shorter-chain PFAS (4-7 carbon atoms) showed higher absorption rates.
- Some PFAS, like perfluorooctanoic acid (PFPeA) and perfluorobutane sulfonate (PFBS), had 59% and 49% absorption rates, respectively.
- The absorbed PFAS potentially could enter the bloodstream, though further research is needed to confirm this.
These results suggest that skin contact with PFAS products could be a significant source of exposure, adding to the known risks from ingestion and inhalation.
The study’s methodology involved dissolving each PFAS chemical in methanol and applying 500 nanograms per square centimeter to the 3-D skin models for up to 36 hours. This approach allowed researchers to analyze three crucial aspects: the amount of chemicals that crossed the skin barrier, the total absorbed within the skin surface, and the amount that wasn’t absorbed.
It’s important to note that while the study provides valuable insights, the researchers caution that the experimental conditions may not perfectly replicate real-world scenarios. Factors such as varying skin thickness across different body parts and lower everyday exposure levels could influence absorption rates. Nevertheless, this research opens new avenues for understanding PFAS exposure and its potential health impacts.
Consumer Alert: PFAS-Laden Items in Daily Contact
The potential for skin absorption of PFAS has significant ramifications for a wide range of consumer products. Items that come into direct, prolonged contact with the skin may pose a particular risk, including:
- Cosmetics and skincare products
- Clothing, especially those treated for water or stain resistance
- Furniture and upholstery with PFAS treatments
- Personal protective equipment and occupational gear
Consumers may need to be more vigilant about checking product ingredients and seeking PFAS-free alternatives, particularly for items used directly on the skin or worn for extended periods.
The cosmetics industry, in particular, faces scrutiny as many products are designed for direct skin application. Items such as foundations, moisturizers, and sunscreens may contain PFAS for their water-resistant properties. Similarly, the textile industry may need to reevaluate the use of PFAS in stain-resistant and water-repellent clothing treatments.
This new understanding of skin absorption also raises questions about occupational exposure. Workers in industries that frequently use PFAS-containing materials or protective gear may be at higher risk of exposure through skin contact. This could lead to reassessing safety protocols and personal protective equipment in various sectors.
Moreover, the potential for PFAS absorption through skin contact might influence future product design and manufacturing processes. Companies may need to invest in research and development to find safer alternatives that provide similar performance benefits without the associated health risks.
Health Risks: The Growing Concern Over PFAS Exposure
While the full health impacts of PFAS exposure are still being studied, several concerning effects have been identified:
- Increased risk of certain cancers, particularly kidney and testicular cancer
- Thyroid disruption, potentially leading to hormonal imbalances
- Liver damage, including non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
- Weakened immune system, making individuals more susceptible to infections
- Developmental issues in children, such as low birth weight and delayed puberty
- Fertility problems, including decreased sperm quality and menstrual irregularities
- Elevated cholesterol levels potentially increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease
- Interference with vaccine efficacy, particularly in children
- Potential neurobehavioral effects, including attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
- Increased risk of asthma and other respiratory issues
The potential for skin absorption adds another layer of concern, providing an additional route for these chemicals to enter the body and potentially cause harm. This expanded list of health concerns underscores the urgency of addressing PFAS exposure and finding safer alternatives in consumer products.
Looking Ahead: Research Needs and Regulatory Challenges
The study’s findings highlight the need for further research into PFAS absorption through the skin. Areas for future investigation include:
- Real-world exposure scenarios and absorption rates
- Variations in absorption based on skin thickness and location on the body
- Long-term health impacts of dermal PFAS exposure
- Effectiveness of different barriers or treatments in preventing skin absorption
These findings also influence future regulatory decisions regarding PFAS products, potentially leading to stricter controls on the use of personal care items and clothing.
