FDA Expresses Safety Concerns Over PFAS Presence in Cosmetics
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) unveiled a report on December 29, 2024, mandated by Congress. This report highlighted significant data gaps concerning the safety of PFAS (perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances) in cosmetic products.
FDA Commissioner, Dr. Marty Makary, expressed concern over the lack of toxicological data for most PFAS. He emphasized that this absence of information creates a significant uncertainty about consumer safety. PFAS, also known as ‘forever chemicals,’ are synthetic substances incorporated in cosmetics to enhance properties like water resistance, durability, and texture modification.
The report, mandated under the Modernization of Cosmetics Regulation Act of 2022 (MoCRA), scrutinizes PFAS intentionally added to cosmetic products as ingredients. Although the FDA’s evaluation did not conclude definitive safety determinations, the agency stressed that this lack of reliable data necessitates further research.
Currently, there are no federal regulations explicitly banning PFAS intentionally added to cosmetic products. However, the FDA assures that it will take appropriate action if safety concerns arise.
The agency commits to continually monitor emerging scientific data and allocate additional resources to address data gaps. This effort supports the reduction of PFAS across the food and consumer product supply chain through expanded testing and monitoring.
Source: FDA Press Announcement