The Dark Side of Smartwatch Bands
Smartwatch bands are often marketed as durable, water-resistant, and easy to clean. However, these benefits come at a cost. Many smartwatch bands contain high levels of toxic chemicals, including PFAS (Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances), also known as forever chemicals.
Chemical Breakdown in Smartwatch Bands
PFAS are commonly used in non-stick coatings like Teflon, but they are also added to some smartwatch bands to repel dirt, oil, and sweat. The result is a cleaner-looking watch band, but at the expense of your health. PFAS chemicals are particularly concerning because they don’t break down easily and can accumulate in the body over time.
Skin Absorption of Toxins
The skin on your wrist is thin and sensitive, making it an easy entry point for toxins. PFAS and other toxic compounds are absorbed directly into the skin, and the high PFAS levels in smartwatch bands increase the risk of absorption. Daily wear of these bands results in chronic, low-dose exposure, which builds up in the body over time and contributes to long-term health issues.
Hidden Health Risks of PFAS Exposure
PFAS chemicals have been linked to severe health issues, including:
• Liver and kidney damage: PFAS accumulates in these detox organs, impairing their ability to filter toxins and leading to long-term organ dysfunction.
• Immune system suppression: PFAS exposure reduces the effectiveness of the immune response, making the body more vulnerable to infections and diseases.
• Hormone disruption: PFAS interferes with endocrine function, impacting everything from metabolism to reproductive health.
• Increased cancer risk: The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and other health organizations have identified certain PFAS compounds as probable carcinogens.
• Developmental issues in children: Pregnant women exposed to PFAS may pass these chemicals on to their developing babies, increasing the risk of birth defects and developmental disorders.
What’s Really in That “Silicone” Smartwatch Band?
Many smartwatch bands marketed as “silicone” or “silicone-like” are not actually made from pure silicone. Instead, they are made with fluoroelastomers, a synthetic rubber designed for extreme durability. Fluoroelastomers contain PFAS and other toxic compounds, making them a significant health risk.
Safer Alternatives
The good news is that you don’t have to ditch your smartwatch entirely. Swapping out your watch band for a safer material can drastically reduce your exposure to harmful chemicals. Safer alternatives include:
• 100% stainless steel watch bands
• 100% leather watch bands
• Fabric or nylon watch bands
How to Avoid PFAS in Watch Bands and Other Wearables
To minimize your exposure to PFAS and other toxic substances, follow these guidelines:
• Check the materials carefully: Look for 100% stainless steel, untreated leather, or fabric options instead of fluoroelastomers or soft plastic bands.
• Avoid bands labeled “fluoroelastomer”
• Be wary of vague descriptions: If a band is advertised as “silicone-like,” it is likely not pure silicone and could contain chemical additives.
• Replace synthetic bands with safer alternatives: The longer you wear a fluoroelastomer band, the more exposure you’ll get.
References:
1. Sieff, Jessica. “Researchers Detect Elevated Levels of PFAS in Some Fitness Tracker and Smartwatch Bands.” Notre Dame News, 18 Dec. 2024.
2. Wacławik, Małgorzata, et al. “Silicone Wristbands in Exposure Assessment: Analytical Considerations and Comparison with Other Approaches.” International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, vol. 19, no. 4, Feb. 2022.
3. Fenton, Suzanne E., et al. “Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substance Toxicity and Human Health Review: Current State of Knowledge and Strategies for Informing Future Research.” Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry, vol. 40, no. 3, Mar.
4. Bline, Abigail P., et al. “Public Health Risks of PFAS-Related Immunotoxicity Are Real.” Current Environmental Health Reports, vol. 11, no. 2, 2024.
5. González-Alvarez, María Estefanía, et al. “Effects of Per- and Polyfluoroalkylated Substances on Female Reproduction.” Toxics, vol. 12, no. 7, June 2024.
6. Starling, Anne P., et al. “Prenatal Exposure to Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances and Infant Growth and Adiposity: The Healthy Start Study.” Environment International, vol. 131, Oct. 2019.