If you’ve been following conversations around clean beauty and wellness, you’ve probably seen the term “PFAS” pop up. But what exactly are PFAS, and why are they sometimes called forever chemicals? Let’s break it down.
What Are PFAS?
PFAS (short for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are a large group of man-made chemicals developed in the 1940s. They were originally created for their resistance to water, grease, and stains — which is why you’ll often find them in:
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Nonstick cookware (like Teflon pans)
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Water-resistant clothing
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Food packaging (think fast food wrappers)
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Firefighting foams
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Some cosmetics and fragrances
The nickname “forever chemicals” comes from the fact that PFAS don’t easily break down in the environment or in the human body. Once they’re here, they stay, and that’s where the concern comes in.
“PFAS chemicals do not break down when they are released into the environment, and they continue to accumulate over time.” — Endocrine Society
Why Are PFAS Harmful?
Research has linked long-term exposure to PFAS with a range of health concerns, including:
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Disruption of hormone function (endocrine disruptors)
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Weakened immune response
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Fertility issues and pregnancy complications
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Increased risk of certain cancers
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Developmental issues in children
Because PFAS can accumulate in our bodies over time, even small amounts from everyday products add up. For people with autoimmune conditions or chemical sensitivities, this can be especially concerning.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, PFAS may increase cancer risk, weaken immune defenses, and affect thyroid function.
"Nothing in medicine ever happens by itself, and the effects of EDCs (Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals) are often the result of multiple exposures to several of these chemicals over time. We know exposure to these chemicals is not the only reason you develop a chronic disease — but it can be a contributing factor over time.” — Dr. Shewmon, Cleveland Clinic
PFAS in Beauty and Fragrance
Most people don’t realize PFAS can show up in makeup, skincare, and even perfumes. They’re often used to make products more long-lasting, waterproof, or smooth in texture. The problem? Brands aren’t always required to disclose PFAS on labels — they might be hidden under vague terms like “fluoropolymer” or simply lumped into “fragrance.”
That means you could be spraying PFAS directly on your skin without even knowing it.
How to Avoid PFAS
The good news: you can take steps to reduce your exposure. Here’s how:
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Read labels carefully – Avoid products with ingredients containing “fluoro” or “PTFE.”
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Choose certified clean beauty brands – Look for transparency around ingredients.
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Swap nonstick cookware for stainless steel or cast iron.
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Use reusable containers instead of PFAS-lined food packaging.
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Choose PFAS-free perfumes and personal care products (like ours at Aurori ✨).
Why Aurori Is PFAS-Free
At Aurori, every perfume is handcrafted with 100% organic essential oils and natural botanicals — never PFAS, synthetics, or hidden “fragrance blends.” We believe luxury should never come at the cost of your health.
Our mission is simple: to create autoimmune-safe, non-toxic products that are as kind to your body as they are to the planet.
Final Thoughts
PFAS are called “forever chemicals” for a reason — but that doesn’t mean they need to be a forever part of your daily routine. By choosing safer, transparent alternatives, you can reduce your exposure while still enjoying beautiful products that make you feel good.
✨ With Aurori, clean fragrance isn’t a compromise. It’s the new standard.
Written by:
— Nancy Wilson
Aurori Founder • Hashimoto’s Advocate