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Can Synthetic Fabrics Mess With Your Health?

It’s strange to think that the things we wear may actually be affecting our health, as well as the environment.

Not that long ago, clothing was made from natural fibers like wool, silk, cotton, linen, and hemp, but then in the 1900s synthetic fabrics were developed. These fabrics are far more common than their natural counterparts and they’re also much cheaper. If you have a look at the clothing that you are currently wearing there is a good chance that it contains one or multiple of the following fabrics; acrylic, polyester, rayon, or nylon.

The problem with these fabrics is that they contain toxins that cannot only affect your health but also the planet. According to The Guardian, studies have shown that microfibers from our clothes could be poisoning our waterways and food supply (they are readily consumed by fish and other wildlife). To understand how this happens, you must first understand how these fabrics are made and the processes that they go through (including detergents, formaldehyde to prevent shrinkage, and petrochemical dyes).

Acrylic fabric is made with a combination of chemicals, and according to FashionBi, has been linked to breast cancer.

Polyester is made from synthetic polymers which are created with esters of dihydric alcohol and terephthalic acid, which are toxic.

Nylon is petroleum based and reportedly often has a chemical finish.

Rayon is produced from recycled wood pulp and is treated with chemicals, including sulfuric acid, ammonia, caustic soda, and acetone.

According to reports, these toxins can be absorbed through the skin and some of the side effects include infertility, respiratory diseases, cancer, and contact dermatitis (skin irritations). And the more you wear them, the greater the risk.

Body Ecology reports that although many organic fabrics would have undergone some chemical processes at some point, it is reportedly still a better option. You will initially pay more, but these garments are usually much better quality and will, therefore, outlast the cheaper alternatives, meaning you can have them for years, instead of a season. You can also do your part to help what toxins are coming in contact with your skin, and this can be done by ensuring that you do not wash your clothing in chemical detergent but instead opt for eco-friendly brands.

[Image via Shutterstock]

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