High levels of PFAS found in smartwatch wristbands

Smart watch

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Extractable compounds provide opportunity for significant skin exposure

There are elevated levels of leachable per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in several smartwatch wristbands, US researchers have shown. The research suggests that some bands contain significant residues of perfluorohexanoic acid (PFHxA) – used as a surfactant during manufacturing – providing an opportunity for skin exposure.