Ingredient

Perfluorononyl Dimethicone

Perfluorononyl Dimethicone is flagged for pregnancy, breastfeeding, postpartum, trying to conceive, PCOS and general use. The concern behind the strongest flag is endocrine disruptor and absorbed into the body.

By Team TruvaLast checked

Verdict by profile

Truva checks every ingredient against six profiles. Jump to any of them for the full assessment.

Strongest verdict
Caution Advised
Its verdict for pregnancy, the profile this one is worst in
Profiles flagged
6 of 6
Counting avoid, high risk and medium risk
Irritancy
0 of 5
Higher means more likely to sting or redden
PregnancyCAUTION

Perfluorononyl Dimethicone and pregnancy

Caution Advised

Perfluorononyl Dimethicone is a fluorinated silicone that provides water and oil resistance in cosmetics, commonly found in long-wear makeup and skincare products. It belongs to the PFAS family, synthetic compounds that do not break down naturally. While specific studies on topical Perfluorononyl Dimethicone during pregnancy are lacking, research on related PFAS compounds shows they can cross the placental barrier and have been associated with lower birth weights, developmental delays, and potential endocrine disruption. A 2020 study in Environmental Health Perspectives found detectable PFAS levels in maternal and cord blood, raising concerns about fetal exposure. Currently, no major medical organizations have issued specific guidance on cosmetic PFAS use during pregnancy due to limited data. However, given the known bioaccumulation and persistence of PFAS compounds, many toxicologists recommend a precautionary approach. Denmark and other European countries are implementing PFAS bans in cosmetics, reflecting growing regulatory concern.

BreastfeedingCAUTION

Perfluorononyl Dimethicone and breastfeeding

Caution Advised

Perfluorononyl Dimethicone is a fluorinated cosmetic ingredient that creates long-lasting, water-resistant product effects. It is part of the PFAS family, which are known to persist in the body and environment. Research on PFAS compounds has detected them in breast milk, though specific studies on Perfluorononyl Dimethicone are lacking. A 2022 study in Environmental Science & Technology found various PFAS compounds in breast milk samples, raising concerns about infant exposure to these persistent chemicals. While direct evidence linking cosmetic PFAS to breast milk contamination is limited, the known behavior of PFAS compounds (bioaccumulation, long half-lives, fat solubility) suggests a precautionary approach. Many lactation specialists recommend avoiding PFAS-containing products when safer alternatives exist.

PostpartumCAUTION

Perfluorononyl Dimethicone and postpartum

Caution Advised

Perfluorononyl Dimethicone provides water and oil resistance in cosmetic formulations. For postpartum women not breastfeeding, concerns center on the ingredient's environmental persistence and potential endocrine-disrupting properties. While not directly harmful to postpartum recovery, the growing body of evidence on PFAS health and environmental impacts has led many consumers and health-conscious individuals to seek PFAS-free alternatives. Conventional silicones offer similar benefits without the persistence concerns.

Trying to ConceiveCAUTION

Perfluorononyl Dimethicone and trying to conceive

Caution Advised

Perfluorononyl Dimethicone is a PFAS ingredient with potential endocrine-disrupting properties. Women trying to conceive should be aware that PFAS compounds can persist in the body for extended periods. Research on PFAS exposure has identified associations with longer time to pregnancy and potential fertility impacts. A 2017 study in Human Reproduction found correlations between PFAS levels and reduced fertility. While cosmetic use represents lower exposure than dietary sources, bioaccumulation remains a concern.

PCOSCAUTION

Perfluorononyl Dimethicone and PCOS

Caution Advised

Perfluorononyl Dimethicone is a PFAS compound used for its water and oil-repelling properties. Research on PFAS chemicals has identified potential endocrine-disrupting effects, which is particularly relevant for women with PCOS. Studies on various PFAS compounds have shown associations with altered reproductive hormone levels and metabolic disruption. A 2020 study in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism found correlations between PFAS exposure and hormonal imbalances. While specific data on Perfluorononyl Dimethicone is limited, the chemical structure suggests similar concerns. Women with PCOS, who already experience hormonal imbalances, may wish to avoid potential endocrine disruptors. While topical absorption is likely lower than oral exposure, the precautionary principle suggests choosing non-fluorinated alternatives when managing a hormone-sensitive condition.

General UseCAUTION

Perfluorononyl Dimethicone and general use

Caution Advised

Perfluorononyl Dimethicone is a fluorinated silicone that provides excellent water and oil resistance in cosmetics, creating long-wearing, transfer-resistant products. It belongs to the PFAS family, often called 'forever chemicals' due to their environmental persistence. Growing scientific evidence links PFAS exposure to various health concerns including endocrine disruption, immune system effects, and potential carcinogenic properties. The EPA and European regulatory bodies are increasingly restricting PFAS use. While topical absorption from cosmetics is likely lower than dietary exposure, these compounds bioaccumulate and do not break down. Denmark has banned PFAS in cosmetics, and the EU is moving toward broader restrictions. Several U.S. states are implementing PFAS bans. Many cosmetic brands are reformulating to remove PFAS ingredients. Consumers concerned about environmental and health impacts can choose products with conventional silicones, which offer similar benefits without persistence concerns.

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Provenance

Where this came from

Truva summarises published guidance from bodies including ACOG, the FDA, the EU SCCS and the Cosmetic Ingredient Review. It has no access to your medical history and it is not a substitute for your doctor, dermatologist or midwife. These assessments have not been reviewed by a clinician, and nothing here is a diagnosis or a prescription. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding or being treated for PCOS, take the ingredient list to the person looking after you.

Assessment last pulled from the ingredient database on .

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