Concerned about carcinogens in cosmetics, New Zealand plans to ban them

PFAS are commonly found in mascara and many other cosmetics.

The Guardian newspaper reported on January 31 that the New Zealand Environment Protection Agency said it will ban permanent chemicals in cosmetics from 2027, likely becoming the first country to apply this ban.

Forever chemicals like perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl, known as PFAS, are often found in nail polish, shaving cream, foundation, lipstick, and mascara, helping products last, blend, and resist water.

They are a group of about 14,000 chemicals commonly used to create products that are resistant to water, stains, and heat, known as "forever chemicals" because they are virtually indestructible.

Because they are virtually non-biodegradable, they accumulate in the body and studies have linked them to cancer, infertility and environmental damage.

These chemicals have been detected in drinking water sources, sea sponges, rainwater and groundwater, sea ice, and human blood.

"Our concern is that they do not break down in the body or the environment. When they accumulate, they are linked to a range of harmful effects, including some cancers and hormonal problems," AFP quoted expert Shaun Presow at the New Zealand Environment Protection Agency.

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The New Zealand cosmetics industry has until 31 December 2026 to phase out the use of the chemicals. New Zealand will also ban the use of FPAS in fire-fighting foams from December 2025.

Several US states have policies to protect people from PFAS, and the European Union is considering banning these forever chemicals.

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