You might not have heard of PFAS, but there's a good chance they're already in your bathroom cabinet. PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are a family comprising thousands of man-made chemicals used in everything from non-stick pans to waterproof jackets. They're called "forever chemicals" because they don't break down naturally. Not in a year. Not in a hundred years. They build up in the environment, in wildlife, and in our bodies.
So what are they doing in skincare and cosmetics?
Why PFAS end up in beauty products
PFAS are used in some beauty products because they're brilliant at repelling water and oil. That's what makes certain foundations "long-wearing" and mascaras "waterproof." In cosmetics, they're commonly used as emulsifiers, stabilisers and film-forming agents to improve product performance and longevity. The problem is what they leave behind: not just on your skin, but in the water supply, the soil, and eventually in you.
Scientific evidence increasingly links PFAS exposure to hormone disruption, reduced fertility, immune system suppression, and increased risk of certain cancers.
It's exactly this kind of hidden chemical that led to the founding of Green Trading. Our founder Swee, after battling severe postpartum eczema, discovered that even the high-end luxury brands she had trusted prior to childbirth were loaded with synthetic chemicals aggravating her skin.
The UK is playing catch-up
France banned PFAS in cosmetics and clothing in February 2025. Several US states, including California, banned the intentional use of PFAS in cosmetics at the start of 2025. The UK published its first-ever PFAS plan in February 2026. This is a welcome step. However the plan focuses heavily on monitoring and research rather than immediate regulatory action.
Meanwhile, the Soil Association's 2026 Organic Market Report shows consumers aren't waiting for the government to act. The organic beauty and wellbeing sector grew 8% in 2025, with 65% of shoppers saying sustainability affects their beauty buying decisions and 57% saying organic ingredients matter when choosing skincare. PFAS have never been allowed in COSMOS-certified organic products — so certified brands have been ahead of the curve all along.
What you can do right now
The good news is you don't need to wait for legislation to protect yourself. Here are three simple things to look for:
- Check for COSMOS or Soil Association certification — these standards ban PFAS, artificial fragrances, and microplastics
- Be wary of "long-lasting" and "waterproof" claims — these are the products most likely to contain PFAS
- Read the ingredients list — look out for anything starting with "perfluoro" or "PTFE"
Choosing natural skincare isn't just about what goes on your skin. It's about what doesn't. That's why Green Trading Store focuses on natural skincare (with no nasties) for sensitive skin. Looking after your skin shouldn't mean compromising your health or the planet.