Ingredient

Perfluorononylethyl Stearyl Dimethicone

Perfluorononylethyl Stearyl 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

Perfluorononylethyl Stearyl Dimethicone and pregnancy

Caution Advised

Perfluorononylethyl Stearyl Dimethicone is a fluorinated silicone that creates water-resistant, long-wearing finishes in cosmetics. It belongs to the PFAS family—a group of synthetic chemicals known as 'forever chemicals' because they persist in the environment and human body. While specific pregnancy studies on this compound are lacking, research on PFAS compounds has found associations with adverse pregnancy outcomes. Some studies have linked PFAS exposure to preeclampsia, altered fetal growth, and potential endocrine disruption. These compounds can cross the placental barrier and accumulate in fetal tissues. The mechanism of concern relates to their ability to interfere with hormone function and their persistence in the body. The European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) is working to restrict PFAS in cosmetics, and several European countries recommend avoiding these compounds during pregnancy. While not absolutely prohibited, many healthcare providers suggest a precautionary approach to fluorinated ingredients during pregnancy until more safety data becomes available.

BreastfeedingCAUTION

Perfluorononylethyl Stearyl Dimethicone and breastfeeding

Caution Advised

Perfluorononylethyl Stearyl Dimethicone is a fluorinated silicone compound that belongs to the PFAS family. These compounds are fat-soluble and can accumulate in body tissues over time. Research on PFAS compounds has shown they can transfer to breast milk. A study published in Environmental Health Perspectives found various PFAS compounds in breast milk samples, raising concerns about infant exposure. While this specific fluorinated silicone hasn't been extensively studied, its chemical properties suggest similar behavior to other PFAS compounds. Given the uncertainty and the precautionary principle, many dermatologists recommend avoiding fluorinated cosmetic ingredients during breastfeeding. The potential for bioaccumulation and transfer to breastfed infants makes this a concern worth addressing, even though definitive harm has not been established for topical cosmetic use.

PostpartumCAUTION

Perfluorononylethyl Stearyl Dimethicone and postpartum

Caution Advised

Perfluorononylethyl Stearyl Dimethicone is a fluorinated silicone that provides water-resistant properties and smooth application. While it can create beneficial barrier effects for skin, it belongs to the PFAS family of persistent chemicals. For postpartum women not breastfeeding, the primary concern is the potential for hormone disruption and bioaccumulation rather than infant exposure. Given that the postpartum period involves hormonal rebalancing, some women may prefer to avoid ingredients with potential endocrine-disrupting properties. However, the risk is lower compared to pregnancy or breastfeeding periods.

Trying to ConceiveCAUTION

Perfluorononylethyl Stearyl Dimethicone and trying to conceive

Caution Advised

Perfluorononylethyl Stearyl Dimethicone is a fluorinated silicone that belongs to the PFAS family—compounds that persist in the body and environment. For women trying to conceive, the concern centers on potential hormonal interference and bioaccumulation. Some research has suggested associations between PFAS exposure and reduced fertility, though studies are not conclusive. Given that these compounds can accumulate over time and may affect hormone function, a precautionary approach suggests minimizing exposure when planning pregnancy. The concern is amplified by the fact that PFAS can remain in the body for years.

PCOSCAUTION

Perfluorononylethyl Stearyl Dimethicone and PCOS

Caution Advised

Perfluorononylethyl Stearyl Dimethicone is a fluorinated silicone belonging to the PFAS family. For individuals with PCOS, who already experience hormonal imbalances, potential endocrine-disrupting compounds warrant caution. Research on PFAS compounds has shown associations with metabolic and hormonal disruptions. Some studies have linked PFAS exposure to insulin resistance and altered thyroid function—both concerns for women with PCOS. While this specific compound hasn't been studied extensively, its chemical class raises theoretical concerns. Given that PCOS involves hormonal sensitivity and metabolic dysregulation, many healthcare providers recommend minimizing exposure to potential endocrine disruptors. While not an absolute avoid, women with PCOS may choose to use products without fluorinated ingredients as a precautionary measure.

General UseCAUTION

Perfluorononylethyl Stearyl Dimethicone and general use

Caution Advised

Perfluorononylethyl Stearyl Dimethicone is a fluorinated silicone that provides water repellency, long-lasting wear, and smooth texture in cosmetics. It's commonly found in foundations, primers, and waterproof products. The ingredient belongs to the PFAS family—synthetic chemicals that persist indefinitely in the environment and human body, earning the nickname 'forever chemicals.' While specific toxicity data for this compound is limited, the broader PFAS family has raised concerns about bioaccumulation, potential endocrine disruption, and environmental contamination. These compounds do not break down naturally and accumulate in water, soil, and living organisms. The EU is moving toward restricting PFAS in cosmetics through ECHA regulations, with several member states already recommending avoidance. While the FDA has not restricted these compounds, increasing scientific scrutiny and environmental concerns are leading many consumers to choose products without fluorinated ingredients.

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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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