Toxic truth about cheap clothes

By Dr. Nathalie Beauchamp, DC

Fast fashion has become synonymous with convenience and affordability, but the toxic truth about cheap clothes is far more disturbing: the clothes you wear could be harming your health in ways you might never have imagined. The rise of synthetic fibres in the fashion industry has fueled environmental crises and posed serious, long-term health risks that are often overlooked.

The silent threat: how synthetic fibers harm your health

Most clothing brands rely heavily on synthetic materials like polyester, nylon, and acrylic. These man-made fibres are not just cheap and easy to produce; they are often laden with toxic chemicals that can infiltrate your body through skin contact, inhalation, and even ingestion. Here’s a deeper look at the risks:

1. Skin absorption of hazardous chemicals

Our skin, the largest organ in the body, acts like a sponge, absorbing anything that comes into contact with it, including chemicals from your clothing. Synthetic fibres are often treated with chemicals like formaldehyde, perfluorinated chemicals (PFCs), and phthalates, which are used to make the fabric stain-resistant, wrinkle-free, or water-repellent. Over time, these chemicals can leach out of the fabric and be absorbed by your skin, potentially leading to:

• Endocrine disruption: Chemicals like phthalates and PFCs are known endocrine disruptors, meaning they can interfere with your hormone system. This can result in a range of health issues, from reproductive problems to developmental delays in children.⁽¹⁾
• Carcinogenic effects: Formaldehyde, commonly used in fabric treatments, is a known human carcinogen. Chronic exposure to formaldehyde, even at low levels, can increase the risk of developing certain cancers, including nasopharyngeal cancer and leukemia.⁽²⁾
• Allergic reactions and skin disorders: Direct contact with these chemicals can trigger allergic reactions, including dermatitis, rashes, and hives. For those with sensitive skin or existing conditions like eczema, the effects can be even more severe.

2. Inhalation of volatile organic compounds (VOCs)

Synthetic fibres can off-gas volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are released into the air and can be inhaled. VOCs are associated with a range of health problems, including:

• Respiratory issues: Prolonged exposure to VOCs can cause respiratory problems, including asthma and chronic bronchitis.⁽³⁾The chemicals in synthetic fibres can exacerbate these conditions, particularly in indoor environments where ventilation is poor.
• Neurological effects: Some VOCs, like toluene and xylene, can have neurotoxic effects, leading to symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, and impaired cognitive function. Over time, repeated exposure may increase the risk of neurodegenerative diseases.⁽⁴⁾

3. Microplastics and internal contamination

When you wash synthetic clothing, tiny plastic particles known as microplastics are released into the water system. These microplastics are so small that they bypass water treatment facilities and end up in oceans, rivers, and eventually in the food chain. Microplastics have been found in drinking water, seafood, and even the air we breathe, leading to:

• Gastrointestinal distress: Ingesting microplastics can cause inflammation of the gut lining, potentially leading to digestive issues, nutrient absorption problems, and long-term gastrointestinal damage.
• Immune system compromise: Microplastics can accumulate in the body and may act as carriers for harmful bacteria and toxins, posing a threat to your immune system. The body’s immune response to these foreign particles can lead to chronic inflammation, which is linked to a variety of diseases, including cancer and autoimmune disorders.⁽⁵⁾

4. Systemic toxicity from dyes and additives

The vibrant colours and finishes of synthetic clothes often come from toxic dyes and chemical additives. Many of these substances are not only harmful to your skin but can also be absorbed into your bloodstream, leading to systemic toxicity. For instance:

• Heavy metal exposure: Some synthetic dyes contain heavy metals like lead, cadmium, and mercury, which are highly toxic. Chronic exposure to these metals can lead to severe health problems, including kidney damage, neurological disorders, and cardiovascular diseases.⁽⁶⁾
• Chemical sensitivity: Repeated exposure to chemical additives in synthetic fabrics can lead to Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS), a condition where even low-level exposure to chemicals triggers severe allergic reactions, headaches, and fatigue.

The toxic truth about cheap clothes and their environmental toll

The environmental impact of synthetic fibres is just as alarming. The production of synthetic fabrics relies heavily on fossil fuels, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions. Moreover, synthetic fibres are non-biodegradable, persisting in landfills for centuries and releasing toxins into the soil and water as they degrade.

The environmental degradation caused by the disposal of synthetic fabrics also has a direct impact on human health. As these materials break down, they release microplastics and toxic chemicals into the environment, which can contaminate food and water sources.

How to protect yourself: choosing healthier, safer alternatives

Given the far-reaching health implications of synthetic fibres, it’s crucial to take steps to protect yourself and your family. The good news is that you don’t have to overhaul your entire wardrobe overnight. Here are some steps you can take to reduce your exposure to harmful synthetic fibres and make healthier choices:

Choose natural fibers—When shopping for clothing, bedding, and other textiles, prioritize natural fibres like organic cotton, linen, silk, hemp, and merino wool. These materials are less likely to be treated with harmful chemicals and are more breathable, reducing the risk of skin irritation and other health issues. What about bamboo, you ask? While bamboo is heralded as an eco-friendly alternative due to how fast it grows, it takes a huge amount of processing with industrial solvents to turn it into fibre suitable for clothing.

Opt for organic and non-toxic certifications—Look for certifications like GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) and OEKO-TEX, which guarantee that the fabrics have been produced without the use of toxic chemicals. These certifications also ensure that the processing of natural fibres does not involve harmful substances, providing an extra layer of protection for your health.

Gradually replace synthetic items—Transitioning to a toxin-free wardrobe doesn’t have to happen overnight. Start by replacing items that are in direct contact with your skin, such as underwear, socks, and sleepwear. Gradually, you can replace other synthetic items with natural alternatives as your budget allows.

Detox your home environment—Beyond your wardrobe, consider the fabrics used in your home environment, such as upholstery, curtains, and bed linens. Gradually replace these with natural, non-toxic alternatives to reduce your overall exposure to synthetic chemicals.

Support sustainable brands—Invest in clothing and textiles from brands that prioritize sustainability and ethical production practices. These companies often use natural fibres and non-toxic dyes, offering safer options for you and the environment.

The fast fashion industry isn’t going anywhere anytime soon. But the good news is you can choose to be part of the solution. The next time you’re looking for a new garment, really pause and consider the source. While higher-quality, natural clothing might cost a bit more upfront, it will last much longer, saving you money in the long run. And you’ll be making a conscious choice to protect both your health and the health of the environment.

Yours in health,
Dr. Nathalie

Dr. Nathalie Beauchamp, B.Sc., D.C., IFMCP is the author of the book—Hack Your Health Habits: Simple, Action-Driven, Natural Solutions For People On The Go and the creator of several online health education programs. Dr. Nathalie’s mission is to educate, lead and empower people to take control of their health. She recently launched a new book https://smartcuts.life/
www.drnathaliebeauchamp.com

Photo credit: © Maridav via Canva.com

References

1. Braun JM. Early-life exposure to EDCs: role in childhood obesity and neurodevelopment. Nat Rev Endocrinol. 2017 Mar;13(3):161-173. doi: 10.1038/nrendo.2016.186. Epub 2016 Nov 18. PMID: 27857130; PMCID: PMC5322271.
2. Protano C, Buomprisco G, Cammalleri V, Pocino RN, Marotta D, Simonazzi S, Cardoni F, Petyx M, Iavicoli S, Vitali M. The Carcinogenic Effects of Formaldehyde Occupational Exposure: A Systematic Review. Cancers (Basel). 2021 Dec 29;14(1):165. doi: 10.3390/cancers14010165. PMID: 35008329; PMCID: PMC8749969.
3. Alford KL, Kumar N. Pulmonary Health Effects of Indoor Volatile Organic Compounds-A Meta-Analysis. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2021 Feb 7;18(4):1578. doi: 10.3390/ijerph18041578. PMID: 33562372; PMCID: PMC7914726.
4. Dick FD. Solvent neurotoxicity. Occup Environ Med. 2006 Mar;63(3):221-6, 179. doi: 10.1136/oem.2005.022400. PMID: 16497867; PMCID: PMC2078137.
5. Yang W, Jannatun N, Zeng Y, Liu T, Zhang G, Chen C, Li Y. Impacts of microplastics on immunity. Front Toxicol. 2022 Sep 27;4:956885. doi: 10.3389/ftox.2022.956885. PMID: 36238600; PMCID: PMC9552327.
6. Jaishankar M, Tseten T, Anbalagan N, Mathew BB, Beeregowda KN. Toxicity, mechanism and health effects of some heavy metals. Interdiscip Toxicol. 2014 Jun;7(2):60-72. doi: 10.2478/intox-2014-0009. Epub 2014 Nov 15. PMID: 26109881; PMCID: PMC4427717.