The Truth About Dermal Absorption and PFAS: Why We Tested to the Highest Standard

The Truth About Dermal Absorption and PFAS: Why We Tested to the Highest Standard

The Truth About Dermal Absorption and PFAS: Why We Tested to the Highest Standard

As a community rooted in science and curiosity, we don't just ask if a product works—we ask how it works and, more importantly, what is really in it. Lately, the conversation in the skincare world has shifted toward a class of chemicals you might be hearing about in the news: PFAS, also known as "forever chemicals."

The Science of Absorption

Let's talk about dermal absorption. Your skin is your largest organ, and it is not an impenetrable shield. While it does an amazing job keeping pathogens out, many compounds—especially the active ingredients designed to rejuvenate—are formulated for permeability. This is how our Vitamin C+ Serum delivers brightening peptides and hydration deep into the dermis.

However, this absorption pathway is a two-way street. If a formula contains persistent industrial chemicals like PFAS, they are not just sitting on top of your skin; they are being absorbed into your body's ecosystem.

Why PFAS in Skincare?

PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are sometimes added to cosmetics to make them water-resistant, spread more smoothly, or create a "silky" texture. The concern? They are bio-accumulative. They do not break down in the environment or, potentially, in the human body.

As your formulator and partner in wellness, we believe that ignorance is not bliss. You deserve testing that goes to the utmost capabilities. We do not just want to know if we added PFAS; we want to know if there is any trace contamination from manufacturing or raw ingredients.

The Gold Standard Test

That is why Vitamin C+ Serum  is sent to a third-party lab for Total Organic Fluorine testing. Organic fluorine is the smoking gun for PFAS. By testing for total fluorine, we are not just screening for a single type of PFAS; we are casting the widest net possible to ensure the absence of these persistent chemicals.

Our formula tested NON-DETECT for Organic Fluorine at <10 ppm.

This means you get the pure absorption of our scientifically-proven ingredients, with the least without interference from forever chemicals - to the smallest testable amount ppm. Water is tested at parts per trillion ( ppt) - which is why we also do not feel using a PFAS - free claim and why our certification is for PFAS -tested - you know the results :) 

The Proof is in the Ingredients

We achieve this pristine safety profile by sticking to ingredients that are powerful, yet pure. This formula relies on bioavailability and synergy, not synthetic manipulation:

  • Propanediol & Glycerin: For absorption and humectant properties.

  • Aqua (Water): Pure base.

  • Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C): The gold standard for brightening.

  • Ferula Assa-Foetida Extract (Asafoetida): Potent antioxidant to stabilize Vitamin C.

  • Sorbitol & Caprylyl Glycol: For smooth texture and preservation.

  • Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Extract: Antioxidant protection.

  • Sodium Hyaluronate: For deep, penetrating hydration.

  • Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Extract: For soothing and evening skin tone.

  • Arginine: To balance pH.

  • Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate: A biodegradable chelating agent.

  • Potassium Sorbate: Gentle preservation.

  • Acetyl Hexapeptide-8: The peptide complex for smoothing the look of fine lines.

We choose to be bound by science, not by shortcuts. For the inquisitive mind, this is your signal: your Vitamin C serum is as clean as it is effective.