Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE)

* Teflon

Functions:

Although Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) is more commonly known for its use in pans found in the kitchen, it is now seen in cosmetic and beauty products, in a wide range of products including mineral make up, nail polish, injectable wrinkle fillers, skin care creams, and other formulas. It is used as a bulking agent, slip modifier, binding agent and skin conditioner, according to the Cosmetics Database, and can create a smoother application for a variety of products, and fill in fine lines and wrinkles on the skin.

Polytetrafluoroethylene is also used as the main component of the synthetic filler Gore-Tex, also known as SoftForm and UltraSoft. It is an FDA-approved cosmetic corrective filler used for soft tissue augmentation. According to Dermalogic Surgery, "it is considered to be more of a synthetic implant than a classic injectable material." However, if it isn't placed under the skin correctly during surgery, it can be felt.

Safety Measures/Side Effects:

Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) is considered a low hazard ingredient by the Cosmetics Database, which notes cancer and contamination concerns because of the potential presence of Perfluorooctanoic Acid, an extremely volatile compound. In recent studies in the past few years, one or more human case studies of perfluorooctanoic acid have shown significant cancer findings, significant immune system effects, significant developmental effects, and nervous system effects at low doses.

Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) is thought to be a toxic ingredient because of its reputation as a toxic chemical, but it only becomes toxic after reaching temperatures exceeding 350C; this never occurs in cosmetic or skin care formulas.

Recommended Products w/ Polytetrafluoroethylene:

Blistex Deep Renewal