New Zealand’s Environment Agency has signaled a comprehensive move to ban cosmetics that contain what are commonly called forever chemicals. This plan was highlighted by Phys.org, which cited data from Agence France-Presse (AFP) in its report.
PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are a broad class of chemicals used across several industries, including textiles, food packaging, and cookware. Their standout trait is remarkable resistance to breaking down in the environment and in the human body, which is why they earned the nickname forever chemicals. In everyday life, people can encounter PFAS not only through drinking water but also via products that are packaged with PFAS-containing materials. Exposure has been linked, in various studies, to several health concerns, such as an elevated cancer risk, challenges with fetal development, liver and thyroid issues, immune system suppression, and hormonal disruptions.
In cosmetics specifically, PFAS are sometimes added to items like nail polishes, shaving gels, foundations, lipsticks, and mascaras to improve texture, ensure even coverage, and enhance water resistance. The goal is to help formulas spread smoothly and stay intact on skin or nails even when touched by moisture. But the tradeoff is potential skin absorption and broader exposure through consumer use, which has prompted policy makers to scrutinize cosmetic ingredients more closely.
The project presents a clear timeline: by 2027, selling cosmetic products containing PFAS would be prohibited in New Zealand. In a related move, starting December 2025, firefighting foams that include per- and polyfluoroalkyl additives will be banned, aligning with global efforts to reduce environmental and human health risks associated with these substances. The overarching aim is to shift toward safer alternatives and to tighten oversight of industrial chemicals used in consumer goods and public safety products.
Experts note that the concerns surrounding forever chemicals are not limited to a single region. In North America, regulators, manufacturers, and health advocates in Canada and the United States are increasingly examining PFAS use across consumer products, seeking to reduce exposure without compromising product performance. Public health agencies emphasize the importance of clear labeling, robust testing, and the availability of safer substitutes as part of a broader strategy to protect vulnerable populations while supporting industries in transition. The NZ initiative adds to a growing global conversation about how to balance product convenience with long-term health and environmental stewardship.
Beyond cosmetics, researchers have highlighted widespread contamination in various environments, including ski slopes and recreational areas, where PFAS residues have shown up in soil and water. This broader context reinforces the need for proactive measures that address the entire lifecycle of these chemicals—from production and use to disposal and cleanup—so communities can reduce exposure and minimize ecological impact over time. Attribution: AFP via Phys.org.