Wearable tech wristbands found to contain dangerous forever chemicals

A recent study reveals alarmingly high concentrations of hazardous substances, known as “forever chemicals,” in certain smartwatch wristbands.

Published in Environmental Science & Technology Letters, the study reveals that premium wristbands made of fluorinated synthetic rubber (commonly used for durability) harbor significant amounts of perfluorohexanoic acid (PFHxA), a long-lasting pollutant in the per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) family.

This finding is particularly concerning because these wristbands, designed for prolonged contact with the skin, expose wearers to PFAS—a group of chemicals notorious for their persistence in both the environment and the human body.

What are forever chemicals

PFAS, often referred to as “forever chemicals,” are a group of over 10,000 artificial compounds prized for their resistance to water, grease, and heat.

This unique durability makes PFAS common in consumer products, from cookware to stain-resistant fabrics, and now, wearable technology like smartwatch wristbands.

Health-focused wearables such as smartwatches and fitness trackers have become immensely popular, often worn 24/7 by millions of people worldwide. While they provide convenience and functionality, this continuous use raises questions about long-term exposure to harmful materials embedded in their designs.

PFAS compounds, including PFHxA, resist breaking down in the environment or the human body. Worse, they may transfer through the skin over time, potentially contributing to health problems ranging from hormone disruption to increased risks of cancer and other chronic illnesses.

The study: Investigating smartwatch wristbands

A team of researchers conducted an in-depth analysis of 22 wristband samples purchased from various retailers. These samples spanned a range of materials, price points, and conditions, including both brand-new and gently used items.

The wristbands were tested for the presence of fluorine—a marker for PFAS—and screened for 20 specific types of these chemicals. Their findings revealed that:

13 wristbands made from fluoroelastomers (a fluorinated synthetic rubber often used in high-end models) contained measurable levels of PFAS.

9 out of 22 wristbands tested positive for PFHxA specifically, with concentrations ranging from 800 parts per billion (ppb) to as high as 16,000 ppb.

By contrast, earlier research on cosmetics had found median PFAS levels of 200 ppb—a significantly lower amount compared to the nearly 800 ppb median detected in this study.

Additionally, researchers noted a trend: wristbands made from pricier materials like fluoroelastomers tended to contain higher concentrations of fluorine than their lower-cost counterparts.

Notably, two wristbands that were advertised as not containing fluoroelastomers tested positive for fluorine, raising questions about transparency in manufacturing.

These findings highlight a critical issue: items meant for continuous, direct contact with the skin may expose wearers to hazardous chemicals.

The durable properties of PFAS, which make them ideal for consumer goods, also mean they can resist human perspiration and other external conditions, potentially increasing exposure risks over time.

PFAS chemicals have been linked to various adverse health effects, including hormonal imbalances, immune system suppression, increased risk of certain cancers, and liver and kidney damage.

While definitive research on PFHxA-specific risks remains incomplete, the broader body of evidence surrounding PFAS exposure paints a troubling picture. These chemicals do not easily leave the body, meaning that even small amounts can accumulate over time and potentially contribute to long-term health complications.

Recommendations for consumers

Given the study’s findings, consumers are encouraged to take proactive steps to minimize their exposure to PFAS in smartwatch wristbands.

One key recommendation from the researchers is to opt for wristbands made of silicone instead of fluoroelastomers.

Silicone bands, which are often less expensive, generally contain fewer hazardous chemicals and are considered safer for prolonged use.

In addition to choosing safer materials, consumers can limit the amount of time spent wearing wristbands made from materials that may contain PFAS. If irritation or skin reactions occur, switching to alternative wristbands is advised.

Regularly washing wristbands can also help reduce the potential transfer of chemicals to the skin.

Finally, consumers are urged to research the materials used in their wearable devices and advocate for greater transparency from manufacturers to ensure informed and safe choices.

What can manufacturers do

The responsibility for addressing this issue does not rest solely with consumers. Manufacturers of wearable technology have a critical role to play in ensuring the safety of their products. This includes:

Phasing out hazardous materials: Companies should prioritize the use of safer alternatives to fluoroelastomers, such as silicone or other non-toxic materials.

Improving transparency: Clear labeling of product materials, including any PFAS content, will help consumers make informed choices.

Stricter oversight: Adopting stricter internal standards and adhering to external regulations can mitigate the risks associated with PFAS exposure.

As the popularity of wearable tech continues to grow, the need for responsible innovation has never been greater. Consumers have a right to trust that the products they use daily are designed with their health and safety in mind.

The broader implications of PFAS

The issue of PFAS in wearable technology extends beyond individual health concerns. These chemicals are a significant environmental problem, persisting in soil and water for decades without breaking down. Their widespread use in consumer goods contributes to a growing ecological crisis, contaminating ecosystems and food supplies globally.

Communities near manufacturing facilities or landfill sites are particularly vulnerable to contamination. These areas often experience higher levels of PFAS pollution, which can seep into local water supplies and agricultural land.

This environmental burden disproportionately impacts low-income and marginalized populations, who may lack the resources to access clean water or advocate for stronger protections.

This study’s findings emphasize the urgent need for regulatory action to limit PFAS usage in consumer products. Governments and environmental agencies must step in to establish stricter guidelines on manufacturing practices, reducing the prevalence of these hazardous chemicals in everyday items.

The future of wearable technology

The future of wearable technology hinges on innovation—not just in functionality but in safety and sustainability.

As consumers grow more aware of the risks associated with materials like fluoroelastomers, demand for eco-friendly alternatives is likely to rise.

Devices like heart rate monitors could soon feature wristbands made from biodegradable materials or non-toxic, recyclable components.

Some companies have already started investing in sustainable practices, signaling a shift toward responsible manufacturing.

In the coming years, wearable clinical-grade devices may not only help us track our fitness and monitor our heart rate but also align with our values of health, safety, and environmental stewardship.

A call for safer wearables

The discovery of forever chemicals in smartwatch wristbands is a wake-up call for both consumers and manufacturers. While wearable technology offers many benefits, it should not come at the expense of human health.

For consumers, the message is clear: choose safer alternatives like silicone-based wristbands and stay informed about the materials used in your devices. Advocate for manufacturers that prioritize safety and demand greater accountability from the wearable tech industry.

For manufacturers, this study is a reminder of their responsibility to innovate responsibly. Safer materials, better transparency, and stricter adherence to health guidelines must become industry standards to ensure the well-being of their customers.

The long-term health effects of PFAS exposure remain uncertain, but with proactive steps, it is possible to reduce risks and build a future where wearable tech prioritizes human safety.