Smartwatch and fitness tracker bands can contain high levels of toxic PFAS ‘forever chemicals’ that are absorbed through the skin, causing potentially ‘high’ exposure to the dangerous substance. new American research finds.
The University of Notre Dame study checked for PFAS, or markers of the chemicals, in 22 common brands. It detected them in 15 cases, and at levels much higher than those typically found in consumer goods and clothing.
While the rate at which PFAS moves through the skin is unclear, research has shown that it is absorbed, and the findings are “concerning” because the bands are pressed against the wrists for extended periods of time, says Graham Peaslee, a researcher and co-author of Notre Dame. -author of the study.
The levels detected in the tires were “much higher than most PFAS we have seen in consumer products,” Peaslee added.
PFAS are a class of about 15,000 compounds typically used to make products that resist water, stains and heat. They are called “forever chemicals” because they do not break down naturally and build up, and are linked to cancer, kidney disease, liver problems, immune disorders, birth defects and other serious health problems.
The chemicals are often added to consumer goods, such as rain or hiking gear, as waterproofing agents, although researchers at Notre Dame were shocked to find that some levels in watches were as high as those in firefighting gear. Although natural rubber likely wouldn’t contain PFAS, the chemicals are likely in synthetic rubber to prevent sweat stains and dirt buildup over time, Peaslee said.
While the study does not mention which brands tested positive for PFAS, it does note that it tested watches from Nike, Apple, Fitbit and Google.
Some brands advertise that they use PFAS in the tires – the term ‘fluoroelastomer tire’ indicates its use. However, not all companies advertise the use of the chemicals. Those that contained PFAS were as much as $50 more than those that did not, Peaslee said.
“It’s pretty clear that they’re charging extra for all these wonderful PFAS,” he said.
Research from earlier this year found that as much as 60% of some PFAS in a cream applied to a human skin model was absorbed, a high rate that surprised some researchers. The findings are especially concerning because many of the watches are marketed as “sports” and are designed for workouts. Previous studies have shown that sweat can increase the rate at which PFAS are absorbed.
The study checked for individual PFAS compounds and found the highest volume of PFHxA, a synthetic chemical that is part of the PFAS group, found in 40% of tires. The chemical is commonly used on clothing, carpet, paper and insecticides and has been linked to liver disease. It’s an under-researched substance in part because it’s harder to detect in human blood than other types of PFAS, Peaslee said, which makes his findings even more concerning. The EU has done that proposed ban PFHxA in consumer products, such as watch straps.
Researchers also found that PFOA, a substance that the EPA has determined is virtually no level of exposure in drinking water is safe.
Peaslee said watches with silicone straps are a safer alternative.
“I don’t need anyone rushing to throw away their Christmas gifts, but next time you buy one, steer clear of the ones with PFAS,” Peaslee said.