On today’s Briefing, our LiSTNR investigative journalist Clair Weaver took some cosmetic products to a laboratory for testing because of a hunch that they contain some very concerning chemicals known as PFAS.
According to the Australian Defense Force, PFAS stands for per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances and are manufactured chemicals used in products from non-stick fry pans, carpets, and couches to everyday makeup products.
Listen to the episode below to find out which brands that contain PFAS:
Weaver says there are two reasons we should care about PFAS. One is linked to various human health problems, including cancer, thyroid disease, weakened immunity and infertility.
Another is environmental harm. PFAS is categorised as “forever chemicals” as they don’t break down under typical environmental conditions.
We spent $22 billion each year on cosmetics and toiletries in Australia. And a lot of us put makeup or skincare products on our skin every day. So, it’s clearly something I thought was worth checking out,”
Weaver said.
Out of all the makeup products Weaver sent for a laboratory test, two came back positive, including different degrees of PFAS.
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