"Carcinogens Detected in Large Amounts in Half of US Cosmetics"

Large Amounts of PFAS Detected in Mascara and Foundation
WP "PFAS Exposure Worsens Prognosis in COVID-19 Infection"

[Asia Economy Reporter Yujin Cho] A study has found that 52% of cosmetics sold in the North American region contain large amounts of perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), harmful chemicals that can cause cancer and reproductive dysfunction.

On the 16th (local time), according to CNN and The Washington Post (WP), a research team from the University of Notre Dame analyzed the ingredients of 231 cosmetics distributed in North America and published a research report in the journal Environmental Science & Technology Letters, revealing high levels of PFAS.

According to the research report, among the waterproof mascara products surveyed, 82% showed the highest levels of PFAS, and PFAS was also detected in foundation (63%) and lipstick (62%).

David Andrews of the Environmental Working Group pointed out, "This is a shocking study result showing how widespread PFAS contamination is in the cosmetics industry."

Experts have noted that long-term exposure to PFAS can cause certain cancers, as well as risks of infertility, thyroid disease, and weakened immune function.

WP reported that the international academic journal PLoS One published a study indicating that people exposed to PFAS have worse prognoses when infected with COVID-19.

Dr. Whitney Bowe, a dermatology professor at Mount Sinai Medical Center, said, "PFAS can be absorbed more easily through thin and delicate mucous membranes such as the eyes and lips, increasing the risk."

The research team investigated cosmetic brands including L'Or?al, Clinique, Maybelline, Est?e Lauder, and Smashbox, but did not disclose which brands' products contained PFAS.

The research team also pointed out that these products do not label or indicate that PFAS are included among the main ingredients on their packaging.

This study was conducted amid growing regulatory movements on PFAS by the U.S. federal government and Congress. A bipartisan group in the Senate is pushing for a ban on the use of PFAS in cosmetics, and Congress is also considering establishing nationwide drinking water standards related to PFAS.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is preparing to collect data on the effects of PFAS use on human health. Senator Richard Blumenthal stated, "There is nothing good or safe about PFAS," adding, "These chemicals are a hidden threat that people apply to their faces every day."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.