Is your Fitbit or Apple Watch band exposing you to toxins?
New research has uncovered that smartwatch and fitness tracker wristbands might not be as harmless as they seem. Scientists found that many of these bands contain PFAS, a group of long-lasting chemicals nicknamed “forever chemicals.” These substances don’t break down easily, and they’ve been linked to various health issues. Given some of us wear these devices 24/7, it’s worth asking the question – what’s really in these wristbands?
Key findings from the study
As published in the Journal Environmental Science & Technology Letters, researchers at the University of Notre Dame and the American Chemical Society (ACS) tested 22 wristbands from major brands like Apple, Fitbit, Google, and Samsung. They were looking for fluorine, a marker of PFAS. Unsurprisingly, all 13 bands advertised as made from fluoroelastomers—a type of synthetic rubber—contained fluorine. But what was more surprising is that two of the nine bands not labeled as fluoroelastomer also tested positive. This raises questions about how much PFAS is sneaking into products without clear labeling.
The most common PFAS they found was PFHxA. It turned up in nine wristbands, with a median concentration of 800 parts per billion (ppb). In one case, a sample hit over 16,000 ppb—a staggering amount for something worn on your skin every day.
Price also seemed to matter. Bands costing more than $30 had more fluorine than cheaper ones under $15. Those pricier bands, often praised for their durability and sleek design, might actually come with a hidden chemical burden.
Beyond that the research doesn’t actually name the brands with toxic wristbands. It would have been nice to know. But it’s a material commonly found in smartwatch straps, particularly sports watch straps.
Should you be worried?
PFAS are used in all kinds of products because they resist water, sweat, and oil. That’s why they’re popular in non-stick cookware and waterproof jackets. In smartwatch bands, they help keep the material durable, clean, and free from discoloration. It’s a practical choice for manufacturers, but it might not be so great for the person wearing it.
The problem with PFAS is that they stick around. They don’t break down easily, either in the environment or in our bodies. Over time, has the potential to lead to unwanted effects, even if the exposure seems small at first.
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PFAS have been linked to health issues like thyroid problems, liver damage, and even certain cancers. Scientists are still figuring out how much PFAS from wristbands can absorb into the skin. But studies suggest that some PFAS can pass through human skin under normal conditions. If you’re wearing your smartwatch all day, every day, it’s worth thinking about what’s rubbing against your skin.
What can you do about it?
If this has you rethinking your wristband, consider swapping to a silicone band. Silicone tends to have fewer chemicals like PFAS. Check product descriptions carefully, and if something is marketed as fluoroelastomer, it’s probably worth considering whether to avoid it. You don’t need to ditch your smartwatch entirely—just be a little more mindful about the accessories you choose.
While toxic wristbands are a concern, what’s inside your body might be a bigger deal. Research shows we’re consuming PFAS and microplastics from things like bottled water and food packaging. These plastics can linger in the body, causing harm over time. So while it’s smart to keep an eye on wearable tech, cutting down on plastic use—especially single-use bottles—might do even more for your health.
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