What’s in Your Beauty Products? Let’s Talk PFAS

If you’re here, you probably care about what you’re putting on your skin. Maybe you’ve been on a clean beauty journey for years, or perhaps you're just starting to take a closer look at ingredient lists. At Shimmer, we’re all about transparency, which is why we avoid PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) in every product we carry. But before we get into the “why,” let’s talk about something I hear all the time in the shop:

“I never really thought about what was in my products until…”

For many people, the journey into clean beauty starts with a wake-up call. Maybe it’s a health scare, a family member facing an illness, or even just noticing that your skin isn’t loving what you’re using. That moment of realization—looking at a label and wondering what all those unpronounceable ingredients are—is something I went through, too.

When I started Shimmer, it wasn’t just about selling beauty products. It was about creating a space where people could shop with confidence, knowing that every product on the shelf met the highest standards, was effective, and aligned with their values. Clean beauty isn’t about fear—it’s about making informed decisions..

So, What’s the Deal with PFAS?

PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are synthetic chemicals used in everything from nonstick cookware to waterproof clothing—and yes, even in cosmetics. In beauty products, they help makeup last longer, resist water, and create that ultra-smooth finish. Think of that lipstick that stays on for hours or that foundation that won’t budge—PFAS are often behind that staying power.

According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), certain PFAS are intentionally added as ingredients in some cosmetic products, including lipsticks, eyeshadows, moisturizers, rouges, nail polish, and cleansers. These PFAS are used to condition and smooth the skin, making it appear shiny, or to affect product consistency and texture. fda.gov

The problem? PFAS are known as “forever chemicals” because they don’t break down—not in the environment and not in your body. Once they get in, they stay. Over time, they build up in your bloodstream and tissues, meaning that every exposure adds to the last. Studies have linked PFAS exposure to hormone disruption, weakened immune function, and other potential health concerns. Even more frustrating? They often aren’t listed clearly on ingredient labels, hiding under names like PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) or perfluorooctyl triethoxysilane—so you could be using them without even knowing.

The NTP has conducted extensive research on perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS), two of the most studied PFAS compounds. Their findings indicate that exposure to these substances can lead to reproductive and developmental issues, liver and kidney damage, and immune system effects in laboratory animals. Additionally, both PFOA and PFOS have been associated with tumor development in animal studies. ntp.niehs.nih.gov

The ATSDR is conducting a multi-site study to investigate the health effects of PFAS exposure in communities across the United States. This research aims to provide a better understanding of the relationship between PFAS exposure and health outcomes, particularly concerning drinking water contamination. The study's findings will inform public health actions and policies to mitigate PFAS-related health risks. atsdr.cdc.gov

At Shimmer, we take the guesswork out of it. We work with brands that are just as committed to clean formulations as we are, so you never have to wonder whether PFAS (or any other questionable ingredients) are sneaking into your routine.

The goal isn’t to throw out everything you own and start from scratch. It’s about making informed choices that feel right for you. Whether you’re swapping out one product at a time or doing a full clean beauty overhaul, we’re here to help.

Because at the end of the day, beauty should feel good—inside and out. 💛

Have questions about ingredients or looking for clean swaps? Stop by Shimmer, and let’s chat!