If you’ve ever stopped to read the ingredient label on your skincare, your sunscreen, or your baby products, but never questioned your bandages, you’re not alone.
Most of us assume first aid products are safe.
We assume they’re regulated.
We assume someone has done the thinking for us.
But when it comes to bandages, adhesives, and wound coverings, the reality is more complicated.
This is your guide to understanding what’s actually in traditional bandages, what PFAS-free bandages mean, and how to make more informed choices for your skin and your family.
Why Bandage Ingredients Matter More Than You Think
Bandages are used on:
- Broken skin
- Sensitive skin
- Children’s skin
- Recently injured skin
That means whatever is in the material or adhesive isn’t just sitting on the surface; it’s in direct contact with compromised skin. Yet historically, bandages have been designed for:
- Low cost
- High volume
- Long shelf life
Not necessarily for ingredient transparency, skin health, or environmental impact.
What Is PFAS and Why Is It in Bandages?
PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are a class of chemicals commonly used for their water-resistant and non-stick properties.
They’re found in many everyday products, including some bandages and wound dressings, because they can help repel moisture.
The problem?
PFAS are often referred to as “forever chemicals” because they don’t easily break down in the environment.
Many families are now actively searching for:
- PFAS-free bandages
- non-toxic bandages
- safer first aid products
Because they don’t want unnecessary chemicals sitting on their skin — especially their kids’ skin.
The Hidden Issue: Adhesives and Skin Irritation
Even beyond PFAS, many traditional bandages rely on aggressive adhesives that can:
- Pull at the skin
- Cause redness or irritation
- Leave residue behind
- Be especially uncomfortable for kids or sensitive skin
If you’ve ever removed a bandage and felt like your skin was worse off than before, you already understand why this matters.
First aid should support healing — not create a new problem.
What to Look for in Skin-Safe, Non-Toxic Bandages
When searching for cleaner, safer options, here are things to consider:
- PFAS-free materials
- Bamboo or plant-based backings instead of plastic
- Gentler adhesives
- No added fragrance
- Clear ingredient transparency
- Designed for sensitive skin
These features help reduce unnecessary exposure while still doing the job a bandage is meant to do.
Why We’re Rethinking Bandages at All Better Co.
At All Better Co., we didn’t set out to make “pretty bandages.”
We set out to make better bandages.
That means:
- PFAS-free
- Thoughtfully sourced materials
- Designed with skin health in mind
- Built for real families and real life
Because first aid should meet the same standards as the rest of your home.
The Bottom Line
If you care about:
- What goes on your skin
- What goes on your kids’ skin
- Reducing unnecessary chemical exposure
- Making more informed household choices
Then your first aid drawer deserves the same attention as your pantry, your bathroom shelf, and your cleaning cabinet.
Better choices start with better information.
And that’s what we’re here for.
