New Lawsuit Claims Toxic Chemicals Are Found in Band-Aids Made for People of Color

A recent discovery reveals that 65% of analyzed bandages contain dangerous "forever chemicals" known as PFAS, particularly affecting Band-Aid products designed for people of color. The search for non-toxic bandaids has become more crucial than ever, as research shows that 97% of Americans already have these harmful substances in their blood. In fact, among the 16 bandages manufactured specifically for darker skin tones, 63% showed concerning levels of PFAS contamination.

The implications are particularly worrying because these chemicals don't just sit on the surface - they can enter directly through open wounds, potentially leading to serious health effects including decreased fertility, high blood pressure, and reduced immune system effectiveness.

Study Reveals Alarming PFAS Levels in Skin-Tone Bandages

Recent laboratory testing reveals concerning results about bandages marketed to people of color. According to an independent study conducted by Mamavation, a comprehensive analysis of 40 bandage varieties showed that 26 products contained organic fluorine levels exceeding 10 parts per million (ppm).

Band-Aid products, specifically the OURTONE line, showed notably high concentrations. The BR65 Flexible Fabric Bandages contained 260 ppm organic fluorine on absorbent pads and 374 ppm on adhesive flaps. Additionally, the BR45 and BR55 varieties showed levels of 262 ppm and 250 ppm respectively on their absorbent pads.

The testing uncovered a disturbing pattern in products designed for darker skin tones:

• Among 16 bandages manufactured for black and brown skin tones, 10 showed PFAS contamination above safety thresholds

• Four Band-Aid products landed in the "Not Our Favorite Bandages" category due to elevated organic fluorine levels

Furthermore, Target's Up & Up Flexible Fabric Bandages demonstrated concerning levels, with 256 ppm organic fluorine on absorbent pads and 253 ppm on sticky flaps. Consequently, these findings prompted experts to question the necessity of PFAS in wound care products. Carnegie Mellon University's Professor Terrence Collins expressed dismay at discovering these harmful substances in such essential healthcare items.

How Do These Chemicals Enter Your Bloodstream?

PFAS chemicals in bandages pose a significant risk through multiple absorption pathways. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health research indicates that skin exposure to PFAS can carry comparable health risks to ingestion through food or water.

The absorption process occurs primarily through two mechanisms. First, when band aids are placed on open wounds, PFAS can directly enter the bloodstream. Moreover, these chemicals can penetrate through intact skin via the adhesive flaps, which showed contamination levels ranging from 10 PPM to 374 PPM.

Laboratory studies using porcine skin, which closely resembles human skin, revealed that PFAS compounds can act as a reservoir in the skin tissue. While only 0.05–0.25% of the applied dose initially penetrates, the retained chemicals continue to seep into the system over time. Subsequently, these compounds accumulate in various organs, including:

• Brain

• Liver

• Lungs

• Bones

• Kidneys

Research demonstrates that toxic exposure to PFAS through bandages leads to several health complications. A significant decrease in spleen and thymus weight was observed in laboratory studies, indicating immunosuppressive effects. Simultaneously, the chemicals can trigger increased cholesterol levels, liver enzyme changes, and decreased birth weight.

For individuals with cuts or open wounds, the risk of PFAS absorption intensifies. The chemicals continue to absorb into the body for up to 10 days, reaching plasma concentrations of 118 ng/L. This prolonged exposure period raises concerns about cumulative effects, as even small exposures can build up to significant levels over time, potentially leading to long-term immune system issues.

Manufacturers Face Class Action Lawsuit

Legal action against major bandage manufacturers has intensified as multiple class action lawsuits emerge across the United States. At least six customers have filed a federal lawsuit in New Jersey against Johnson & Johnson and Kenvue Inc., alleging the companies sold bandages containing unsafe levels of PFAS chemicals.

The lead plaintiff from Georgia asserts she would not have purchased these products had she known about the PFAS contamination. Attorney Chris Ayers, co-lead class counsel, emphasizes that these companies positioned their products as empowering people of color, yet potentially exposed these communities to additional health risks.

The class action lawsuit presents several key claims:

• Band-Aid OURTONE products marketed to people of color showed disproportionate PFAS levels

• Companies knowingly concealed the presence of these chemicals

• Products were falsely marketed as safe and sterile, raising concerns of false advertising and misleading marketing

Presently, similar legal actions target other manufacturers. A separate johnson and johnson lawsuit against CVS Health Corporation seeks more than $5 million in damages. Following these developments, Walgreens faces litigation from Illinois consumers, with laboratory testing detecting 195 parts per million of organic fluorine in the absorbent pad and 243 parts per million in the adhesive flap.

Kenvue Inc., essentially defending their products' safety, stated that "BAND-AID® Brand Adhesive Bandages are safe, and consumers can continue to use the products as directed". Nevertheless, Johnson & Johnson has not responded to requests for comment regarding the class action lawsuit and product safety concerns.

Conclusion

These findings certainly paint a troubling picture of PFAS contamination in everyday medical supplies. Above all, the disproportionate presence of these chemicals in bandages marketed to people of color raises serious ethical questions about product safety and corporate responsibility.

The direct absorption of PFAS through open wounds creates significant consumer health risks, while ongoing legal battles highlight the growing consumer awareness and demand for accountability. Therefore, consumers must stay informed about the products they use, especially those applied directly to wounds or broken skin.

The path forward requires continued consumer vigilance, manufacturer transparency, and stricter safety regulations to protect all communities from unnecessary chemical exposure. As more independent studies and blood serum testing reveal the extent of PFAS contamination, it's crucial for both consumers and regulatory bodies to prioritize consumer safety and push for truly non-toxic bandaids and other healthcare products.