Burt's Bees · Waterproof Mascara
BURT'S BEES All Aflutter Waterproof Mascara
Skip until brand improves transparency; waterproof cosmetics contain PFAS risk.
This waterproof mascara relies on an unnamed polymer film for water resistance, a category where PFAS historically appears. Burt's Bees has not disclosed specific coating ingredients or made PFAS commitments.
The better-graded swap
Burt's Bees
Burt's Bees 100% Natural Nourishing Mascara, Black Brown
75/100 safety
Same rubric that flunked this product. The swap earned Excellent.
Still want this one anyway? Check the price on Amazon. We’d swap it.
Material
waterproof film-forming polymer coating (unspecified)
Lab data
No public lab test
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What BURT'S BEES All Aflutter Mascara is made of, ingredients and materials
Waterproof mascaras require film-forming polymers and water-repellent agents to resist moisture and sweat. Burt's Bees does not publicly disclose the specific polymer or water-resistance mechanism in this product. Waterproofing in cosmetics historically relies on fluorinated compounds (PFAS-class chemistry) or silicone-based systems. Without ingredient transparency, the actual chemical composition and potential leachables into the eye area remain unconfirmed.
What’s concerning
Category baseline
The starting point for this type of product, before anything specific to this product is counted.
No PFAS disclosure
No public statement from the brand about PFAS in this product.
Waterproof / stain-resistant treatment
Water-repellent coating treatments have historically used PFAS.
PFAS
Waterproof mascaras frequently use fluorinated compounds or undisclosed synthetic polymers. Burt's Bees does not itemize the water-resistance agent, leaving the chemical identity and safety profile unverified for consumer assessment.
Source, ATSDR ↗Eye irritation and sensitization from polymer film
Film-forming mascaras can accumulate on the lash line and eyelid margin, potentially trapping irritants or bacteria. Incomplete nightly removal is common and raises contact-exposure risk over time.
Fragrance allergens
Burt's Bees products often contain fragrance blends. Waterproof formulas may include fragrance compounds that can trigger allergic reaction in sensitive individuals, especially in the delicate eye area.
Bacterial or fungal growth in the tube
Mascara tubes are a known vector for microbial contamination if not replaced regularly. Waterproof formulas, which are harder to remove, may encourage microbial colonization if users fail to clean application brushes or replace tubes within 3 months.
What’s reassuring
PFAS
Burt's Bees has not faced recalls for heavy metals in mascara colorants. FDA-approved pigments in mainstream mascaras are generally low-risk, though independent testing is not publicly available for this specific formula.
Source, ATSDR ↗How is this PFAS grade calculated?
The brand's record and disclosure
Burt's Bees markets itself as a natural and responsible brand but has not published detailed PFAS statements or waterproofing ingredient clarification for this mascara line. The brand does not list PFAS-free or PFOA-free certifications on this product. Industry-wide, waterproof cosmetics remain under-regulated for fluorinated additives; Burt's Bees' silence on this specific formula is consistent with broader brand opacity in the waterproof category.
How it compares in its category
Most waterproof mascaras in the mass market (drugstore tier) use undisclosed polymer blends; Burt's Bees does not stand out for transparency versus competitors like Maybelline or L'Oreal. Some premium and indie brands now specify silicone-based or PFAS-free waterproofing, setting a higher standard. Burt's Bees' positioning as natural does not guarantee lower concern water-resistance chemistry, as natural polymers rarely achieve true waterproof performance.
If you buy it
Remove mascara thoroughly with gentle cleanser or oil-based makeup remover every night to minimize eye exposure to any film-forming residue. Discontinue use immediately if you experience redness, itching, or irritation around the eye area. Replace the product every 3 months to avoid bacterial growth in the tube. If waterproofing is occasional (not daily), choose a non-waterproof formula on most days to reduce cumulative chemical exposure.
What is not known about PFAS in this product?
- Basis
- Model estimate, 35% confidence, not a lab result
- Lab test
- None on record for this exact product
- Brand statement
- Burt's Bees has made a specific claim
Formulations change between production runs, so check the current label. How we grade.
What are the PFAS-free alternatives to BURT'S BEES All Aflutter Waterproof Mascara?
- Wax, pigments, natural oils (typical mascara base)
- Fragrance allergens and undisclosed sensitizers
2 hazards checked on this product, all on its full breakdown.
- pigments, waxes, polymers (unspecified)
- Lead
5 hazards checked on this product, all on its full breakdown.
Find an alternative on Amazon
- pigments, waxes, film-formers in liquid mascara
- Heavy metals
5 hazards checked on this product, all on its full breakdown.
Find an alternative on AmazonMore waterproof mascara grades
How we score, every product runs through the same public 0-100 rubric based on materials, coatings, brand disclosure, lab findings, and recalls. See the full methodology → Spotted a mistake? Report an error.