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There’s a lot to smile about in the beauty world. This year, France has banned forever chemicals in cosmetics. Will the U.S follow the example?
Cosmetics have their place in many beauty regimens. On the surface, the art of swiping on your favorite lip color, cult mascara, or highlighter for a sunkissed glow is a ritual many see as necessary as that morning caffeine hit. But, dig a little deeper, and you’ll notice that the bar has been set pretty low when it comes to what’s allowed in formulas to achieve the perfect lip stain or all-day voluminous lashes. And, research shows that a lot of these formulas contain toxic chemicals that accumulate in the environment and our bodies over time, called “forever chemicals” or PFAS.
Concerned over the impact of these persistent pollutants, France made a bold move against forever chemicals. Beginning this year, France banned PFAS in cosmetics, hitting hard on products like waterproof jackets and long-lasting makeup.
PFAS, short for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, earn the name “forever chemicals” for good reason. They don’t break down easily. They build up in water, soil, and even our bodies. Studies link exposure to increased cancer risks and weak immune systems. France’s new rule covers a wide range of these tough compounds, aiming to cut exposure right at the source.
When one country adopts legislation combating consumers’ exposure to toxins and pollutants, it also has the impact to reshape how other countries operate within the industry. As Europe leads in the fight against toxins, one has to wonder (and hope) if America will feel the pull to follow suit.
Understanding the Scope of France’s PFAS Ban
France’s ban on “forever chemicals” was passed in February 2025 and went into effect in January 2026. More than 140,000 citizens called on parliament to support the ban, which targets over 10,000 PFAS types. These include common ones like PFOA (perfluorooctanoic acid) and PFOS polyfluoroalkyl substances), used in waterproof cosmetics and once used in non-stick pans and stain guards. Both have been linked to an increased risk of cancer.
Because of the year-long gap between the passing of the bill and its going into effect, older stock could be sold off, but new production must comply now. These tweaks in formulas could mean big changes for standard formulas. The ban also covers imports into France, so global brands can’t dodge it.
The Regulatory Precedent Set by French Law
France leans on the “precautionary principle” of acting now if risks look real, even without full proof. The US EPA moves slower, listing some PFAS as hazardous but not banning them all until there is more evidence about their risk. While some states like California pass their own bills to ban or regulate the use of PFAS, federal action lags behind.
This bill builds upon EU efforts, like the REACh regulation in June 2007, to vet, regulate, and restrict toxic chemicals. France also stands out from other countries by naming PFAS a top threat, along with other toxins, such as certain plastics. For the US, this sets a higher bar and could inspire stronger regulation.
Europe’s bans often spark U.S versions. Remember the EU’s plastic bag bans? States like New York soon passed their own bans. France’s PFAS move adds fuel. The EPA eyes national limits, with talks of a full ban by 2028. Congress might tie it to trade deals, making compliance a must for exports.
Industry Compliance Challenges Worldwide
European brands have had a year to meet the new standards set in this bill. But sourcing new ingredients can cost millions due to lab tests and supplier switches. Reformulating a single lipstick shade might take months of trials, testing each batch for traces of PFAS. And, it’s a global process. A Florida factory might get emulsifiers from Europe, then have a partially finished product sent to another factory in a different country before it’s sent to a store in France. Experts say 70% of global chemical trade crosses oceans. France’s new rule will force restructuring everywhere.
American brands like Estée Lauder, MAC, or Clinique eye Europe for sales. To enter France, products need dual formulas; one PFAS-free, another for being sold on U.S soil. Or, these brands can go all-in on clean versions globally. Many choose the latter to simplify and streamline production. Retailers are also pushing suppliers for PFAS-free products, fearing consumer backlash.
Safer Alternatives & Certifications
PFAS help makeup last through sweat or rain. In sunscreens, they block oil without greasiness. But chemists can replace them with plant-based waxes. However, in some cases, tests show that performance can dip slightly.
To ensure transparency, labs are using new technology to detect PFAS down to parts per trillion, and third-party groups like OEKO-TEX are verifying claims. New badges are emerging too, such as “PFAS-Free Certified”, and France is pushing the EU to have agreed upon seals. The U.S might adopt similar standards.
France also demands full ingredient lists. Even in the U.S where cosmetic companies can hide behind terms such as “fragrance,” consumers are pushing back, boycotting, and petitioning for federal rules similar to France’s.
