Researchers warn: Cheap watch bands safer as expensive ones contain toxic chemicals

A recent study revealed alarmingly high levels of toxic "forever chemicals," specifically perfluorohexanoic acid (PFHxA), in smartwatch wristbands made from fluorinated synthetic rubber. The research, conducted by scientists from the Scripps Research Institute, raises significant environmental and health concerns about the widespread use of these wristbands, particularly in more expensive models.

The research team examined 22 smartwatches and fitness wristbands from different brands. Fluorine was detected in all 13 of the examined fluorinated elastomer wristbands, indicating the presence of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). PFHxA was the most frequently found PFAS, detected in nine of the analyzed wristbands. Fluorine traces were also found in two of the nine wristbands that did not advertise being made with fluoroelastomers, suggesting the possible presence of PFAS.

The average concentration of PFHxA in the wristbands was nearly 800 parts per billion (ppb), with some samples exceeding 16,000 ppb. According to the researchers, "One sample had more than 16,000 ppb of perfluorohexanoic acid." This discovery is particularly concerning because previous investigations found average PFAS concentrations in cosmetics to be around 200 ppb, indicating that wearable technology may contain PFAS levels four times higher.

“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,” said Graham Peaslee from the Scripps Research Institute. Peaslee also warned, "We have never seen extractable concentrations in the part-per-million range (>1000 ppb) for any wearable consumer product applied to the skin."

The study suggests that the high levels of PFHxA found in wristbands may result from its use during the fluoroelastomer manufacturing process. These fluoroelastomers are synthetic rubbers made from chains of PFAS, providing durability during workouts and helping to prevent discoloration and repel dirt. However, these properties may increase the risk of these chemicals passing directly into the body through the skin.

PFAS are widely used in the production of various consumer goods, including stain-resistant bedding, menstrual products, and sports clothing, due to their ability to repel water, sweat, and oil. They have been used in industries ranging from aerospace to packaging and are known for their persistence in the environment and human body.

Certain types of PFAS, including PFHxA, have been linked to cancer and other serious illnesses. Even very low levels in drinking water have been associated with an increased risk of certain forms of cancer. Researchers stated that how easily PFHxA passes through human skin and its possible health effects after entering the body are not yet fully known.

The study found that more expensive wristbands made of fluorinated synthetic rubber revealed particularly high amounts of PFHxA, with fluorine levels generally found to be higher. Bands costing more than $30 contained more fluorine than those costing less than $15, indicating they were likely higher in overall PFAS content. Scientists say that these chemicals may be more common at certain price points.

Lead author of the study, Alyssa Wicks, recommends purchasing lower-cost wristbands made from silicone and advises consumers to err on the side of caution when choosing wearable technology. For those considering purchasing a more expensive wristband, it is advised to carefully read product descriptions and choose wristbands that do not contain "fluorinated elastomer."

The researchers warned that the durability of the bands might provide easy access for forever chemicals to enter the wearer's skin. Researchers are concerned because these bands are worn around the wrist, allowing potentially harmful substances to enter the wearer's skin directly. Many users of wearable devices do not remove them at night because the electronics help track sleep quality and other body indicators, increasing the duration of exposure.

Currently, there are no federal regulatory limits that dictate safety levels for PFAS exposure through the skin. The Environmental Protection Agency has set exposure thresholds for drinking water and for six types of PFAS alone. Exposure limits for other PFAS and other exposure routes are still being studied.

The Sun, Phys.org, and SciTechDaily reported on the findings, among other websites. 

The article was written with the assistance of a news analysis system.