Is Your Smartwatch Band Leaching Toxins?

Smartwatches have become essential for many people, tracking everything from heart rate to sleep cycles. But while these devices promise to improve health, some of their components may do the opposite. A class-action lawsuit has been filed against Apple and Samsung, claiming that certain smartwatch bands contain PFAS, also known as forever chemicals—toxic compounds linked to hormone disruption, immune dysfunction, and long-term health risks.

This concerns the direct, prolonged skin contact that smartwatch bands have with the body. If these toxic chemicals are present in the materials, they could be leaching into the skin every hour of the day through sweat, heat, and friction.

If you own a smartwatch, here’s what you need to know about the lawsuit, the health risks associated with PFAS, and how to protect yourself.

What Are PFAS, and Why Are They a Problem?

PFAS (per and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are a class of synthetic chemicals designed to repel water, oil, and stains. They are commonly used in waterproof fabrics, nonstick cookware, fast-food packaging, and industrial materials. But the problem with PFAS is that they don’t break down, either in the environment or in the body—hence the nickname “forever chemicals.”

Long-term exposure to PFAS has been linked to serious health risks, including:

• Endocrine disruption – PFAS interferes with hormones, potentially affecting thyroid function, testosterone levels, and metabolic health.
• Immune suppression – PFAS exposure has been linked to reduced immune function and increased susceptibility to infections.^[2]
• Cancer risk – Certain PFAS compounds have been associated with an increased risk of kidney, liver, and testicular cancers.^[3]
• Developmental and reproductive issues – Studies suggest that PFAS can impact fertility, fetal development, and birth weight.^[4]

The fact that these chemicals may be present in smartwatch bands—worn directly on the skin for hours or even 24/7—raises major concerns about long-term absorption and accumulation in the body.

Apple and Samsung Face Class-Action Lawsuits Over PFAS in Watch Bands

A class-action lawsuit has been filed against Apple over PFAS found in specific smartwatch bands, including the Nike Sport Band. Samsung’s Galaxy smartwatch bands are also facing similar legal action.^[5]

The lawsuit alleges that:

• Apple and Samsung failed to disclose the presence of PFAS in their smartwatch bands.
• Consumers experienced skin irritation, rashes, and burns, potentially linked to PFAS exposure.
• Continuous skin contact with these toxic materials increases the likelihood of absorption into the bloodstream.

Apple and Samsung have not yet confirmed or denied the presence of PFAS in their bands, leaving many consumers wondering whether they’re unknowingly exposing themselves to harmful chemicals.

How PFAS Can Absorb Through Your Skin

Unlike PFAS in drinking water or food packaging, which involve intermittent exposure, a smartwatch band poses a continuous exposure risk.

• Sweat and body heat – Heat can accelerate the breakdown of synthetic materials, allowing chemicals to leach out.
• Friction and micro-abrasions – Tiny, unnoticeable skin abrasions can create an entry point for chemicals.
• Prolonged wear – Unlike clothing, which you remove at the end of the day, many people wear smartwatches 24/7, maximizing exposure time.

Even if the amount of PFAS leaching from a band seems small, the cumulative effect of daily exposure should not be ignored.

What to Use Instead: Smartwatch Bands Without PFAS

If you own a smartwatch, consider replacing your synthetic band with a safer, non-toxic alternative:

• Leather bands – Opt for full-grain, vegetable-tanned leather, which is free from harsh chemical treatments.
• Stainless steel bands – A durable, non-toxic option that doesn’t contain coatings or plasticizers.
• Fabric bands (without PFAS coatings) – Some woven watch bands are free from PFAS, but verify the materials before purchasing.

If you’re unsure whether your current band is part of the lawsuit, check Apple or Samsung’s website for updates, or play it safe and make the switch to a verified, non-toxic band.

Why It Matters: Reducing Everyday Chemical Exposure

Many people focus on reducing toxins in food, water, and personal care products, but wearable items like watch bands, shoes, and clothing can also be major sources of chemical exposure. Since PFAS accumulates in the body, eliminating even one consistent source of exposure can help reduce your overall toxic load.

If you wear a smartwatch—or know someone who does—share this information. Making the simple switch to a non-toxic watch band is an easy way to reduce unnecessary chemical exposure without giving up the convenience of wearable technology.

1. Swenberg, James A., et al. “Formaldehyde Carcinogenicity Research: 30 Years and Counting for Mode of Action, Epidemiology, and Cancer Risk Assessment.” Toxicologic Pathology, vol. 41, no. 2, Feb. 2013, pp. 181–89.
2. Bline, Abigail P., et al. “Public Health Risks of PFAS-Related Immunotoxicity Are Real.” Current Environmental Health Reports, vol. 11, no. 2, 2024, pp. 118–27.
3. Seyyedsalehi, Monireh Sadat, and Paolo Boffetta. “Per- and Poly-Fluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) Exposure and Risk of Kidney, Liver, and Testicular Cancers: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.” La Medicina Del Lavoro, vol. 114, no. 5, 2023, p. E2023040.
4. Szilagyi, John T., et al. “Perfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) and Their Effects on the Placenta, Pregnancy and Child Development: A Potential Mechanistic Role for Placental Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptors (PPARs).” Current Environmental Health Reports, vol. 7, no. 3, Sept. 2020, pp. 222–30.
5. PFAS Lawsuits Involve Apple Watch Bands, Samsung Galaxy Watch Bands, and Hershey’s Chocolate Wrappers.” JD Supra, https://www.jdsupra.com/legalnews/pfas-lawsuits-involve-apple-watch-bands-8451962/. Accessed 27 Feb. 2025.