New Research Reveals Skin Absorption of "Forever Chemicals"

For the first time, scientists have discovered that PFAS, known as “forever chemicals,” can permeate human skin and enter the bloodstream, raising significant concerns about their use in everyday products. PFAS, or per- and polyfluorinated alkyl substances, are notorious for their persistence in the environment, found in everything from food packaging to cosmetics.

Widespread Presence
PFAS are ubiquitous, detected in soil, water, and even in nearly half of the U.S.’s tap water, according to a 2023 study by the U.S. Geological Survey.

Health Concerns
Exposure to PFAS has been linked to numerous health issues, including increased cholesterol, blood pressure, reduced immunity, reproductive problems, and cancer risks, as noted by the U.S. Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry.

Skin Absorption
Previously, it was believed that PFAS could not breach the skin barrier due to their molecular structure. However, research by Oddny Ragnarsdóttir and colleagues at the University of Birmingham, published in Environment International, used 3D human skin models to demonstrate that 15 out of 17 tested PFAS were absorbed through the skin.

Molecular Structure and Absorption
The study found that PFAS with shorter molecular chains were absorbed more readily, challenging the industry’s shift towards these supposedly less toxic variants.

Implications for Future Research
This discovery underscores the need for comprehensive studies on how these chemicals interact with human health, particularly through dermal exposure. The research suggests that focusing on individual