PFAS in Cosmetics: Current Regulations, Testing Requirements & Compliance Guide (2026)

PFAS in Cosmetics: Why Are "Forever Chemicals" Under Global Regulatory Scrutiny?

Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) are a large family of more than 10,000 synthetic chemicals valued for their water-, oil-, grease- and stain-resistant properties. In the cosmetics industry, certain PFAS have historically been used to improve product spreadability, durability, water resistance and smooth texture in products such as foundations, mascaras, eyeliners, lipsticks, sunscreens, shaving creams and skin-care formulations.

However, due to their extreme environmental persistence, PFAS are commonly referred to as “forever chemicals.” Scientific research has shown that many PFAS do not readily degrade and may accumulate in the environment and living organisms, prompting regulators worldwide to strengthen oversight and restrict their use in consumer products. As global regulations continue to evolve, cosmetic manufacturers, brand owners, importers and exporters must proactively evaluate formulations and verify compliance through laboratory testing.

What Are PFAS?

PFAS are fluorinated organic compounds that provide unique performance characteristics, including:

Persist in the environment for decades
Can accumulate in humans and wildlife
May migrate into water, soil and food chains
Have been associated in scientific studies with immune, developmental, liver and endocrine effects, although risks vary between different PFAS compounds

The regulatory focus has therefore shifted from individual compounds toward broader management of the PFAS chemical family.

Current Global Regulatory Landscape (2026)

European Union

The European Union continues to strengthen chemical regulations affecting PFAS under the REACH Regulation.

Key developments include:

Ongoing evaluation of a broad PFAS restriction proposal covering numerous industrial and consumer applications.
Existing restrictions on specific PFAS compounds.
Certain PFAS-related substances (such as PFHxA-related substances) have restrictions that extend to cosmetics where applicable.

In parallel, cosmetic manufacturers marketing products within Europe must continue complying with Regulation (EC) No. 1223/2009, ensuring cosmetic products do not present unacceptable risks to human health.

Increasing International Restrictions

Several countries have begun implementing or proposing restrictions on PFAS in cosmetics and other consumer products.Examples include:

New Zealand has prohibited intentionally added PFAS in cosmetic products from 2026.
France has adopted national legislation restricting PFAS in several consumer products, including cosmetics, although implementation is progressing in phases.

These developments indicate a growing international trend toward reducing PFAS use across the cosmetics supply chain.

Which Cosmetic Products May Contain PFAS?

Although many manufacturers have already begun reformulating products, PFAS may historically have been used in:

Foundations
Primers
Waterproof mascara
Eyeliners
Long-wear lipsticks
Concealers
Sunscreens
Shaving creams
BB & CC creams
Skin protectants

Modern formulations increasingly seek fluorine-free alternatives while maintaining product performance.

Why PFAS Testing Matters

PFAS testing helps manufacturers:

Verify regulatory compliance.
Assess raw material quality.
Support retailer compliance programs.
Reduce product recall risks.
Demonstrate commitment to consumer safety.
Meet customer and export market requirements.

Testing is becoming increasingly important even where regulations have not yet introduced complete bans, as many retailers and international brands now require supplier verification.

Common PFAS Testing Approaches

Depending on product type and regulatory objectives, laboratories may perform:

Targeted PFAS Analysis

Quantitative determination of specific regulated PFAS compounds using advanced LC-MS/MS techniques.

Typical analytes may include:

PFOS
PFOA
PFHxS
PFNA
PFBS
Additional customer-specific PFAS compounds

A screening approach used to identify the possible presence of fluorinated compounds. If elevated fluorine levels are detected, more detailed targeted PFAS analysis may be recommended.

Useful as an initial assessment for identifying products that may contain fluorinated substances requiring further investigation.

Testing cosmetic ingredients before formulation helps manufacturers identify potential contamination early in product development.

Additional Cosmetic Safety Testing

PFAS testing is often combined with other analytical evaluations, including:

Heavy Metals
Restricted Ingredients
Preservatives
Nitrosamines (where applicable)

Total Aerobic Microbial Count
Yeast & Mold
Specified Pathogens
Preservative Efficacy Testing

Accelerated Stability
Real-Time Stability
Packaging Compatibility
Freeze-Thaw Studies

A comprehensive testing strategy provides greater confidence in product quality, safety and regulatory compliance.

How Eureka Supports Cosmetic Manufacturers

As regulatory expectations continue to evolve, Eureka supports cosmetic manufacturers, exporters, importers, private-label brands and raw material suppliers with scientifically robust laboratory testing solutions.

Targeted PFAS Screening
Fluorine Screening
Risk-based analytical support

Heavy Metals
Preservatives
Restricted Substance Analysis
Raw Material Evaluation

Microbial Limit Testing
Preservative Efficacy Testing
Pathogen Detection

Accelerated Stability Studies
Packaging Compatibility
Physico-Chemical Analysis
Shelf-Life Assessment

Using advanced analytical instrumentation and internationally accepted methodologies, Eureka helps manufacturers generate reliable scientific data to support regulatory compliance, customer specifications and product safety throughout the product lifecycle.

Preparing for Future Compliance

As PFAS regulations continue to expand globally, cosmetic manufacturers should:

Review ingredient inventories for intentionally added PFAS
Engage suppliers regarding PFAS-free declarations
Perform periodic PFAS screening of raw materials and finished products
Monitor updates from regulatory agencies in export markets
Maintain scientific documentation supporting compliance

Early adoption of PFAS testing not only helps meet emerging regulatory expectations but also strengthens consumer confidence and supports sustainable product development.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What are PFAS in cosmetics?

PFAS are synthetic fluorinated compounds that have been used in certain cosmetic formulations to improve water resistance, durability, spreadability and texture.

2. Why are PFAS receiving increased regulatory attention?

Many PFAS are highly persistent in the environment and have raised concerns regarding potential impacts on human health and ecosystems, leading to increased regulatory scrutiny worldwide.

3. Which cosmetic products may contain PFAS?

Historically, PFAS have been used in products such as foundations, waterproof mascaras, eyeliners, lipsticks, sunscreens and other long-wear cosmetic formulations.

4. How are PFAS detected in cosmetic products?

Laboratories typically use advanced analytical techniques such as LC-MS/MS for targeted PFAS analysis, along with fluorine screening methods where appropriate.

5. Why should cosmetic manufacturers perform PFAS testing?

PFAS testing helps manufacturers evaluate formulations, support regulatory compliance, meet customer requirements and reduce potential market risks associated with evolving regulations.

Official References

Regulation (EC) No. 1223/2009 on Cosmetic Products
Regulation (EC) No. 1907/2006 (REACH)
European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) – PFAS Restriction Proposal
European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) – Scientific Opinion on PFAS
Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) – PFAS Definition and Guidance
US Food and Drug Administration (US FDA) – Cosmetics Guidance
Modernization of Cosmetics Regulation Act (MoCRA), United States