Textile toxicity: fashion vs. health

Textile toxicity is a topic that is emerging as a key issue with the growing interest in sustainable living and ecological and natural production. Chemicals used in the production of clothing have an impact not only on the environment but also on the health of consumers. Many of us do not realise that the clothes we wear every day can contain dangerous chemicals that affect not only our health but also the environment. In fact, over 60% of our clothes contain polyester. This also begs the question: natural or synthetic fabrics – which is better for our skin and our health?

Synthetic fabrics and their contribution to textile toxicity

Synthetic fabrics such as polyester, nylon, acrylic and elastane are widely used in the fashion industry because of their durability, low cost to produce and variety of uses, which puts them at the top of the textile industry. However, they are often the main source of toxic chemicals in garments.

Although natural fabrics such as cotton and wool can also sometimes contain chemicals (such as pesticide residues), they are much more easily biodegradable and kinder to the skin. Synthetics, on the other hand, are non-degradable and can remain in the environment for centuries.

3 main fabrics we should avoid

• Polyester
  One of the most common, but also the most dangerous, synthetic fibres, which is petroleum-based and produced using dihydric alcohol and terephthalic acid – both of which are extremely toxic and still present after production. This can lead to problems such as dermatitis and respiratory infections.
• Acrylic
  Again petroleum based, it is highly flammable and contains a chemical that has been declared a carcinogen and mutagen. It can also cause rashes, headaches, kidney problems and breathing difficulties when worn regularly.
• Nylon
  Again made from petroleum and heavily treated with chemicals, it is often used for bedding fabrics. It does not absorb sweat and causes headaches, allergies and dizziness. It’s often treated to be “anti-wrinkle” or “waterproof,” but you should also try to avoid fabrics with specific treatments because they all degrade

Impact of textile toxicity on health and how to protect your skin

The skin is the largest organ of the body and the first barrier against external influences. When we wear clothes made with toxic chemicals, these substances can penetrate the skin, especially with perspiration or prolonged contact. Common problems include:

• Skin irritations and allergic reactions – caused by residual chemicals such as dyes and formaldehyde.
• Dry and sensitive skin – the result of prolonged exposure to synthetic fabrics that do not allow the skin to breathe.
• Long-term risks – some toxic substances can cause hormone disruption or contribute to the development of serious diseases.

In response to the challenges associated with textile toxicity, choosing the right skin care becomes extremely important. This is where natural products such as BulCanna’s Restoring Balm SKIN come in.

Natural skin care without compromise

What else can you do as consumers?

1. Choose clothes made from organic cotton or sustainable materials like bamboo.
2. Wash new clothes before first use to reduce surface chemicals.
3. Support brands with a transparent sustainability policy.
4. Look for labels such as GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) and OEKO-TEX that ensure products are safe.

Summary

Textile toxicity is a problem that affects us all. By taking small but conscious steps, we can help reduce the risk to our health and the damage to the environment. As the industry works to make changes, our consumption habits can be a catalyst for a greener future. Whatever you do, make sure you ask questions about what comes into contact with your skin. With recent discoveries about the effects of synthetic fabrics and dyes, we are no longer protected from fast fashion, but exposed to its effects every second of the day. Choose natural care.