What are Synthetic Fibers?
Some common examples of synthetic fibers are polyester, nylon, and acrylic. Unlike natural fibers derived from plants and animals, they are born in laboratories and created through complex chemical processes engineered for durability, elasticity, and resistance to moisture. While these characteristics make them immensely popular and functional for various applications, the synthetic origin of these fibers raises questions about their interaction with our body and our overall health.
Synthetic fibers have become a mainstay in the realm of modern fashion. From polyester in our activewear to nylon in our swimwear, these chemical-ridden materials are now ubiquitous. The convenience and affordability of synthetic fabrics come with a hidden cost though- one that is detrimental to our health.
Health Concerns with Synthetic Fabrics
The negative health repercussions of polyester and other plastic-derived clothing is severely underappreciated, and the beachwear industry has been long plagued by only offering apparel made from it behind the guise of polyester or “recycled polyester” (more on that another time).
Toxic chemicals, microplastics, and heavy metals are native to all plastic-based clothing. Derived from petrochemicals (oil), plastic-based clothing leaves these 3 harmful compounds in the clothes as a byproduct, which then enter our skin. Our skin is our body's largest organ. In the same way that what we put into our stomach and liver impacts our health, what we put onto our skin impacts our health. Frequent exposure to these fabrics manifests in 2 common symptoms:
1. Acne & Irritated Skin
One of the most immediate concerns with synthetic fabrics is their impact on skin health. Unlike natural materials like TENCEL™, cotton, or hemp, synthetic fibers do not allow the skin to breathe properly. This can result in acne, skin irritation, rashing, and itching, especially when worn during physical activity and sweating.
2. Body Odor
The lack of breathability in synthetic fabrics doesn’t allow for adequate air circulation, which disrupts the body's natural temperature regulation. As a result, synthetic fabrics trap sweat and moisture which promote the growth of odor-causing bacteria. Aside from the superficial concerns, this can result in excessive sweating, discomfort, and unwanted microbe buildup.
Underlying Issues
Ultimately, these are just symptoms of deeper rooted problems. They are our body's way of indicating something is wrong. These surface level symptoms are really just a consequence of what’s going on underneath. When we pull back the curtain, we see constant exposure to plastic-based clothing causes hormone disruption, gut issues, metabolic dysfunction, and more.
Mitigating the Risks
To minimize exposure to synthetic fibers, we recommend the following strategies:
Opt for All Natural Fiber Clothing Where Possible
Especially with pieces that frequently touch your skin like undergarments, bed linens, and pillowcases, opt for a natural fiber like cotton, hemp, or wool.
Wear a Layer of Natural Fabric Underneath Synthetic Garments
If you do have jackets or expensive clothing items made from synthetics, invest in 100% cotton T Shirts to wear underneath so what directly touches your skin isn't synthetic. If an outer layer of clothing with no direct contact to your skin is synthetically produced, it’s not a big deal.
Transition Away From Synthetics Altogether
While it may take some time, the path to optimal health, vitality, and comfort is inevitably removing synthetic items altogether from your closet. Start with the essentials, and then slowly swap pieces out here and there, we promise it will be worthwhile.