A groundbreaking study conducted by researchers at the University of Birmingham has confirmed that toxic "forever chemicals" known as PFAS (perfluoroalkyl substances) can be absorbed through the human skin. This discovery challenges the previous belief that PFAS were unable to permeate the skin barrier.

PFAS are widely present in everyday household products and are known as "forever chemicals" due to their resistance to breaking down naturally in the environment. These chemicals have been used for decades in items such as waterproof clothing, non-stick pans, and cosmetics. However, they have been linked to various health issues, including immune system disruption, impaired liver function, and decreased birth weight.

The study involved testing 17 commonly used varieties of PFAS on laboratory-grown tissue that mimics human skin. The researchers found that 15 of these chemicals demonstrated "substantial" absorption into the skin, with at least 5% of the dose being absorbed. Notably, perfluorooctanoic acid (PFO), often used for food packaging, exhibited an absorption rate of 13.5% into the bloodstream, with an additional 38% retained within the skin.

Dr. Oddný Ragnarsdóttir, the lead author of the study, noted that the ability of these chemicals to be absorbed through the skin was previously dismissed due to their ionized nature. This ionization, which causes the molecules to repel water and stains, was believed to prevent them from crossing the skin membrane. However, the research findings reveal that the theory does not always hold true, highlighting the significant potential for exposure to these harmful chemicals through skin absorption.

Interestingly, the study also found that modern PFAS with shorter carbon chains, previously considered less toxic, may be more easily absorbed through the skin. This discovery raises questions about the trade-off between toxicity and absorption rates and underscores the importance of understanding the risks associated with different chemical structures.

The study's co-author, Prof Stuart Harrad of the University of Birmingham, emphasized the significance of this research in informing regulators about PFAS concentration levels that could lead to easy skin absorption. However, further research will be required to fully comprehend the impact of these chemicals once they have penetrated the skin barrier.

Dr. David Megson from Manchester Metropolitan University, an expert in Chemistry and Environmental Forensics, highlighted the alarmingly widespread exposure to PFAS. He stated that most individuals unknowingly expose themselves to PFAS daily through clothing and cosmetic products, raising concerns about the long-term adverse health effects associated with these toxic chemicals slowly leaching into our bodies.

This study serves as a wake-up call to the potential risks posed by PFAS absorption through the skin. It provides crucial insights into the absorption abilities of different types of PFAS, which can aid in regulating their usage and setting safety standards. As awareness grows around the harmful effects of "forever chemicals," researchers and regulators must work together to ensure the well-being of both individuals and the environment.