A new study published in Environmental Science & Technology Letters reveals that nine out of 22 fitness tracker and smartwatch bands tested contain per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), often referred to as “forever chemicals.”
The research, conducted by the University of Notre Dame, analyzed both new and used watchbands purchased in the U.S. across various brands and price points, categorizing them as “inexpensive” (priced at $15 or less), “midrange” ($15 to $30) and “expensive” (over $30).
The findings showed that many of the smartwatch bands were made with fluoroelastomers, a synthetic material used by wearable brands for its resistance to sweat and skin oils – an ideal material for active individuals and daily smartwatch users, but carrying a potential health issue.
While nine of the 22 bands were shown to contain elevated levels of a PFAS called perfluorohexanoic acid (PFHxA), interestingly, bands with the highest levels were more prevalent among higher-priced band options.
“The most remarkable thing we found in this study was the very high concentrations of just one PFAS — there were some samples above 1,000 parts per billion of PFHxA, which is much higher than most PFAS we have seen in consumer products,” study co-author and professor emeritus Graham Peaslee said.
The concern, Peaslee and his team say, is that the chemicals can migrate, leading to inhalation, ingestion and skin absorption. Forever chemicals – which have been found in more than smart bands — are worrisome, experts say, for their association to health issues such as an increased risk of certain cancers, immunosuppression, hormonal dysregulation and developmental delays in children.
For its part, the University of Notre Dame has made it a mission to tackle forever chemicals by studying their impact and exploring treatment methods.
As Alyssa Wicks, a graduate student and the study’s lead author points out, few studies have been published regarding the dermal absorption of PFAS.
“One article published earlier this year by a European research group found that a couple types of PFAS had significant transfer through the skin,” Wicks said. “That initial study only examined around 20 of the 14,000 known types of PFAS, and more studies are needed to better understand how PFAS travel through the skin.”
Ultimately, the authors note that their findings suggest a more comprehensive study is needed to test the levels of PFAS in bands.
In the meantime, the Environmental Working Group (EWG) offers some solutions for those concerned, such as opting for bands made from silicone and free of fluoroelastomers, limiting wear time and demanding safer alternatives from smart watch and fitness tracker manufacturers.
