A recent study published in Environmental Science & Technology Letters has raised concerns about the presence of potentially harmful “forever chemicals” in certain smartwatch wristbands. These chemicals, known as PFAS, are human-made compounds that can persist in both the environment and the human body for decades.
Researchers from the University of Notre Dame screened 22 wristbands from a range of brands and price points. Their findings revealed higher-end wristbands made from fluorinated synthetic rubber contain high concentrations of PFAS, which have been linked to health issues, including cancer and liver damage.
Wristbands priced above $30 were found to have higher levels of PFAS compared to those costing less than $15.
“This discovery stands out because of the very high concentrations of one type of forever chemical found in items that are in prolonged contact with our skin,” Graham Peaslee, co-author of the study, said in a statement. “Much higher than most PFAS we have seen in consumer products.”
While the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has set limits for PFAS exposure in drinking water, there are currently no federal regulations regarding skin exposure to these substances.
The Notre Dame researchers indicated that it’s unclear whether the PFAS in these wristbands can transfer to the skin or pose health risks upon contact. Despite the lack of certainty on this, the study’s lead author still recommends choosing lower-cost silicone wristbands as a potentially safer alternative.
