Smartwatch bands can contain ‘major’ levels of toxic PFAS, study finds

High amounts of forever chemicals' that can be absorbed through skin detected in common brands of wrist bands

Smartwatch and fitness tracker bands can contain high levels of toxic PFAS forever chemicals" that are absorbed through the skin, presenting a potentially major" exposure to the dangerous substance, new US research finds.

The University of Notre Dame study checked for PFAS, or markers of the chemicals, in 22 common brands. It detected them in 15, and at levels much higher than typically found in consumer goods and clothing.