Lubricating coatings on razor blades are thin films that reduce friction between the blade and the skin during shaving and reduce the force required to cut hair. Virtually all shaving razor blades have a PTFE-lubricating coating on the edges to enhance comfort while shaving. While PTFE coatings on razor blades can provide a smoother and more comfortable shaving experience, they have negative environmental impacts because they are not biodegradable and can persist in the environment for a long time. PFAS compounds are a byproduct of the production of PTFE and can also be used in formulations of PTFE powders to keep them in suspension. PFAS are persistent organic pollutants that can accumulate in living organisms and potentially cause a range of health issues, including liver/kidney damage, cancer, and development of disorders.1-3 Due to the potential health effects, there have been restrictions on the use of specific PFAS compounds in the past, and new restrictions are on the horizon.
For example, perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and its salts and related compounds were banned under the POPs Regulation since July 4, 2020.4 New restrictions covering a wide range of PFAS were proposed to ECHA in January of 2023 by the governments of Denmark, Germany, Netherlands, Sweden, and Norway.5 The restrictions advocate for the prohibition of the production, marketing, and use of these substances throughout Europe except in critical applications where there are no acceptable non-fluorinated substitutes (for example, PTFE used in medical devices).