Cosmetics play a big part in people’s daily lives whether they are putting on makeup or using skincare products. It’s important to be aware of what goes into the cosmetics you use on your body each day. A chemical analysis conducted last year found that many cosmetics contain highly persistent, potentially harmful “forever chemicals” called PFAS.

PFAS is short for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances which include thousands of chemicals that can linger in the body for years and the environment for centuries.

“There is no known good PFAS,” chemist and physicist, Graham Peaslee of the University of Notre Dame, told Science News.

Out of 200 products Peaslee tested, 52 percent had high fluorine concentrations, suggesting the presence of PFAS. Waterproof mascaras, liquid lipsticks and foundations specifically tested for the highest amount of fluorine.

When tested, 63 percent of foundations, 55 percent of lip products and 82 percent of waterproof mascaras contained high levels of fluorine. Waterproof or long-lasting products specifically had the highest concentrations of fluorine, as PFAS are water-resistant.

Although the potential risks of PFAS are unknown, Peaslee said that products going down the drain can contaminate drinking water.

Next time you are at Target or Ulta shopping for cosmetics, look at the label and make sure you are aware of what you’re putting on your body. Some products are not as harmless as they seem, they can present potential risks to you and the environment.