University Study Reveals Widespread Forever Chemicals in Fitness Wearables
A University of Notre Dame study published on January 17 detected high levels of PFAS chemicals in smartwatch bands, with some samples exceeding 1,000 parts per billion. The research team tested 22 bands available in the U.S. market, finding that premium-priced bands contained the highest concentrations of these forever chemicals. The synthetic rubber components that resist sweat and oil may allow these substances to absorb directly into wearers’ skin during exercise.
5 Key Points
- Fifteen of 22 tested smartwatch bands contained elevated fluorine levels, indicating PFAS presence.
- Premium bands priced above $15 showed the highest chemical concentrations.
- Researchers identified fluoroelastomer as the source material containing PFAS.
- Prior studies suggest up to 60% of PFAS can be absorbed through skin contact.
- Sweating may accelerate the rate of chemical absorption into the body.
Chemical Concentrations Spike in Higher-End Watch Bands
University of Notre Dame researchers discovered alarming PFAS levels in smartwatch bands retailing above $15, with some samples containing more than 1,000 parts per billion of PFHxA. Graham Peaslee, professor emeritus in the Department of Physics and Astronomy, led the investigation published in Environmental Science and Technology. The research team identified fluoroelastomer, a synthetic polymer, as the source of these chemicals. Manufacturers add this compound to create sweat and oil-resistant properties in the bands, a feature mainly marketed to fitness enthusiasts. “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,” Peaslee explained in the university’s statement.
Exercise Creates Additional Exposure Risk Through Skin Contact
Lead author Alyssa Wicks and her team uncovered a concerning relationship between physical activity and potential PFAS absorption. The study revealed that sweat produced during exercise might accelerate the rate at which these chemicals enter the bloodstream through skin contact. Previous research indicates that human skin can absorb up to 60% of PFAS chemicals through direct contact, raising particular concerns for fitness tracker users who wear these devices during intense physical activity. The National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences has documented multiple health risks associated with PFAS exposure, including increased cancer risk, childhood obesity, metabolism disruption, and immune system impairment. “There can be significant transfer through the skin,” Wicks warned in the university’s statement.
Laboratory Analysis Reveals Widespread Contamination Pattern
The Notre Dame research team conducted comprehensive testing on 22 bands representing various price points in the U.S. consumer market. Their analysis identified high total fluorine concentrations—a key indicator of PFAS presence—in fifteen of the tested bands. Nine of these bands contained PFHxA, a forever chemical compound that raises serious health concerns. While the study maintained brand anonymity, the findings demonstrated consistent PFAS presence across multiple manufacturers and price points. The research focused mainly on fluoroelastomer content, a synthetic rubber compound that releases these chemicals. Wicks noted that fifteen of the 22 bands contained a high percentage of total fluorine concentrations, indicating widespread use of PFAS-containing materials in smartwatch band manufacturing.
FAQ
Q: Can I file a lawsuit if I was exposed to PFAS or other forever chemicals?
A: If you or a loved one suffered health issues from exposure to PFAS or other forever chemicals, you may be eligible for legal action. Contact our legal experts to learn about your rights and start a free, confidential case review.
Q: Which smartwatch bands contain the highest levels of PFAS chemicals?
A: According to the University of Notre Dame study, bands priced above $15 contained the highest PFAS concentrations, with some samples exceeding 1,000 parts per billion of PFHxA. The study tested 22 bands but did not disclose specific brand names.
Q: Can PFAS from smartwatch bands enter my body through skin contact?
A: Previous research indicates that up to 60% of PFAS chemicals can be absorbed through skin contact. The absorption rate may increase during exercise when sweating occurs, making this particularly relevant for fitness tracker users.
Q: What health risks are associated with PFAS exposure from smartwatch bands?
A: The National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences links PFAS exposure to several health concerns: increased cancer risk, childhood obesity, metabolism disruption, and immune system impairment. The study found “significant transfer through the skin” can occur during wear.
Q: How many smartwatch bands tested positive for PFAS chemicals?
A: Of the 22 bands tested, 15 contained high fluorine concentrations, indicating PFAS presence. Nine of these bands specifically contained PFHxA, a particular type of PFAS chemical compound.
Q: Why do manufacturers use PFAS in smartwatch bands?
A: Manufacturers use a synthetic polymer called fluoroelastomer, which contains PFAS, to make the bands resistant to sweat and oil. This material provides durability and water resistance properties desired in fitness wearables.
Q: How can I identify if my smartwatch band contains PFAS?
A: The study did not provide specific brand information or ways for consumers to identify PFAS content. However, bands made with fluoroelastomer or synthetic rubber materials designed to be sweat and oil-resistant likely contain these chemicals.
Citations
Cara Lynn Shultz (January 17, 2025). Smart Watch Bands Contain ‘Very High Concentrations’ of Forever Chemicals That May Be Absorbed into Skin. People Magazine. https://people.com/smart-watch-bands-very-high-concentrations-pfas-forever-chemicals-8776525
