We’ve all heard about the dangers of “forever chemicals” like PFAS lurking in our environment – in the water we drink, the air we breathe, and even the products we use every day.
But a new study has uncovered a concerning truth: these persistent pollutants can penetrate our skin and enter our bloodstream, posing a previously unknown risk to our health.
The Invisible Threat
PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are a group of over 12,000 synthetic compounds used in countless consumer products for their water and stain-resistant properties.(ref) From non-stick cookware and food packaging to cosmetics and waterproof clothing, these chemicals are ubiquitous in modern life.
The problem? PFAS don’t break down naturally, earning them the moniker “forever chemicals.” They accumulate in the environment and in our bodies over time and have been linked to a host of health issues, including cancer, liver damage, decreased fertility, immune system suppression, and developmental problems in children.(ref)
Skin Deep
While we’ve long known that PFAS can enter our bodies through ingestion and inhalation, the idea that they could penetrate our skin was largely dismissed – until now. Researchers at the University of Birmingham have made a groundbreaking discovery: 15 out of 17 common PFAS chemicals were able to pass through a 3D model of human skin and into the bloodstream.(ref)
The study challenges the assumption that the skin acts as a barrier to these toxic substances. The ability of these chemicals to be absorbed through the skin has previously been dismissed because the molecules are ionized. The electrical charge that gives them the ability to repel water and stains was thought to also make them incapable of crossing the skin membrane.
The research found that PFOA, a highly toxic type of PFAS, showed 13.5% absorption into the bloodstream and 38% retention in the skin for potential long-term exposure. This confirms that dermal absorption is a significant route of exposure to these harmful chemicals.
The Long & Short of It
The study found that shorter-chain PFAS – which have been touted by industry as safer alternatives to long-chain compounds – were actually absorbed more readily by the skin. For example, perfluoropentanoic acid (PFPeA), a common short-chain PFAS used in food packaging, was absorbed at four times the rate of the notorious long-chain chemical PFOA.
This finding is particularly concerning as manufacturers shift towards using these supposedly “safer” short-chain compounds in consumer products.
“The trade-off might be that we absorb more of these short-chain PFAS as these smaller chemicals are more easily transported through the skin barrier,” warns Ragnarsdóttir, lead author of the study.
Accumulation in the Body
Once PFAS enter the body, they tend to accumulate in various tissues over time. Studies have found high concentrations of these chemicals in the liver, lungs, kidneys, brain, and bones.
In the liver and brain, perfluorohexanoic acid showed the highest levels, while perfluorooctanoic acid was most prevalent in bone. The lungs accumulated the highest overall concentration of PFAS. This buildup in the body is worrisome, as it can lead to long-term health effects even after exposure has ceased.
The Way Forward
So what can be done to protect ourselves from this invisible threat? Experts say that avoiding products containing PFAS is a good start, but ultimately, systemic change is needed. The European Chemicals Agency is currently considering a ban on forever chemicals, but the plan has faced intense industry pushback.
As consumers, we can vote with our wallets by supporting companies that prioritize safer, non-toxic alternatives. Researchers have identified several potential substitutes for PFAS in various applications, such as food packaging, that meet the criteria for being less hazardous. These include alternative substances like polyethylene and polylactic acid (PLA) and non-chemical options.
We can also advocate for stronger regulations and more research into the health effects of PFAS exposure. While the discovery that forever chemicals can seep into our skin is concerning, it also underscores the need for action to phase out these persistent pollutants and protect public health.
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Martha A. Lavallie
Martha is a journalist with close to a decade of experience in uncovering and reporting on the most compelling stories of our time. Passionate about staying ahead of the curve, she specializes in shedding light on trending topics and captivating global narratives. Her insightful articles have garnered acclaim, making her a trusted voice in today's dynamic media landscape.