Scientists tested during the research "more than 200 cosmetics including concealers, foundations, eye and eyebrow products and various lip products."
According to the study, "56 percent of foundations and eye products, 48 percent of lip products and 47 percent of mascaras tested were found to contain high levels of fluorine, an indicator of PFAS use in the product," the university said on Tuesday.
PFAS is a group of chemicals used to increase durability and water resistance in cosmetics. This means, however, that the compounds can be absorbed and accumulate within the human body. According to the US Environmental Protection Agency, various studies show that exposure to PFAS can lead to adverse effects in humans, including cancers, pregnancy complications and thyroid disease.