Why Is Wearing Natural Fabrics Good for Your Health?
Skin—the largest organ in our body. It works for us 24/7, regulating temperature, protecting us, even breathing for us. And what do we do in return?
We expose it to harmful UV radiation, contributing to a rise in skin cancer that’s growing faster than the next four cancers combined.
We spend over $1.2 billion annually on anti-aging creams, while another $1.3 billion goes toward cleansers to wash them off.
We apply SPF when we run errands, yet drop $2 billion each year on tanning salons.
We need to do better. Our skin is literally our closest ally. The number one thing we can do to keep it beautiful and vibrant is simple: Keep it healthy.
YOU ARE WHAT YOU WEAR
For most of our lives, our skin is covered by layers of fabric—often several at once. Fabrics that keep us warm, cool, comfortable, and, of course, make us look and feel our best. But here’s something you might not know: your skin absorbs a significant amount of whatever comes in contact with it—especially in sensitive areas like your underarms and genitals, which absorb 100% of what’s applied.
That little fact should make you stop and think about what you're putting on your body. What you wear doesn’t just sit on your skin—it becomes part of you.
COMMON CAUSES OF SKIN SENSITIVITY
For many people, skin sensitivity is an everyday challenge that requires careful attention to what they wear. Those with allergies to materials like latex, wool, or spandex, or conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and contact dermatitis, often need to be extra selective when choosing clothing.
Aging and menopause can also take a toll on the skin, leading to a loss of collagen, increased dryness, and disrupted temperature regulation. What once caused no irritation may suddenly trigger rashes or discomfort.
For those dealing with these issues, natural fibers like silk and cotton are often the best choice. However, it's important to be cautious of blends that may contain latex or chemically treated fibers, which can negate the benefits of these otherwise gentle fabrics. Also, be mindful of latex content in waistbands or seams, as this can cause irritation.
So, keep an eye on the label! Just as you check the ingredients in your food, the same care should be taken when selecting your clothing.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR
The first and simplest step in choosing the right clothing for sensitive skin is to opt for products made from mostly natural fibers. So, what are these fibers, and why should you choose them?
Cotton
Cotton is a timeless fabric that’s gentle on every skin type, from babies to aging skin. Known for its hypoallergenic properties, cotton won’t irritate your skin or exacerbate allergies. It’s breathable, unlike oil-based synthetic fabrics, which can trap heat and moisture. For women going through menopause or experiencing hot flashes, cotton is a lifesaver. It wicks moisture away, allowing for better temperature regulation and quick cooling during a hot flash. Plus, its loose, breathable fit helps minimize sweating and discomfort, providing all-day comfort.
Flax/Linen
Linen, made from the fibers of the flax plant, is one of the strongest natural fibers in the world. It actually becomes stronger when wet, making it perfect for durability. Linen is an excellent temperature regulator, is hypoallergenic, anti-static, and even has natural antibacterial properties. It can absorb up to 20% of its weight in moisture before it starts to feel damp, helping you stay dry and comfortable.
Silk
This luxurious fabric is highly absorbent, easy to care for, and naturally hypoallergenic due to its unique protein structure, making it a great choice for those with allergies. Silk not only promotes healthier skin, but it also has a reputation for making you look younger, keeping your hair shiny and healthy, and even reducing friction on your skin. It helps regulate temperature by cooling you when it's hot and warming you when it's cold. Plus, it's surprisingly strong—stronger than a strand of steel—yet soft and gentle on your skin.
Hemp
Hemp is a truly eco-friendly, toxin-free fabric—it doesn’t require herbicides to grow and is far more sustainable than many other fibers. Hemp is also water-efficient, requiring less water than cotton. Known for its durability, hemp softens with each wash and lasts longer than many other natural fabrics. Plus, it comes with natural coloring, which reduces the need for chemical dyes in the manufacturing process.
If you're wearing 100% of any of these four fibers, you're on the right track. However, other natural fibers like wool, alpaca, angora, camel, cashmere, and mohair can also be great choices—just be cautious if you’re allergic to animal fibers or sensitive to certain textures.
WHAT TO AVOID
When shopping for skin-friendly fabrics, it's essential to watch out for certain materials that could cause irritation or rashes. Here's a quick rundown of potential irritants:
Chemicals and Allergens: Look out for substances like formaldehyde and para-phenylenediamine (PPD), which are often used in textile processing.
Dyes: Certain dyes, such as Disperse Blue 1, Azo, and anthraquinone, can be irritating for sensitive skin.
Latex and Spandex: Both are common allergens and can cause reactions in sensitive individuals.
Wool: Particularly rough or untreated wool can irritate dry or sensitive skin.
In addition to these, avoid synthetic fibers like Polyester, Acrylic, Acetate, Triacetate, and Nylon. These materials aren’t natural and are made from chemical compounds such as synthetic polymers in polyester or petroleum in nylon.
While it’s relatively easy to spot these fabrics while shopping, discerning whether a garment contains skin-irritating chemicals can be trickier. Fortunately, the label is your best friend here! If you're aiming to minimize your exposure to toxins, steer clear of garments that feature any of the following terms on their labels:
Certain fabric finishes and treatments can contain harmful chemicals that may irritate your skin or pose longer-term health risks. Here are some to watch out for:
Wrinkle-Resistant / Permanent Press
These garments may release formaldehyde, which is a common allergen. Formaldehyde can irritate mucous membranes and the respiratory tract, so it’s best to avoid it, especially if you have sensitive skin.Colorfast
Dye fixatives used to bond color to fabrics often contain heavy metals. When absorbed through the skin, these metals can accumulate in the liver, kidneys, bones, heart, and brain, and can also leach into the environment during washing.Stain-Resistant
These fabrics can contain Perfluorinated Chemicals (PFCs) or Formaldehyde, both of which are known to be harmful to health and the environment.Flame Retardant
Fabrics treated with flame retardants often contain PBDEs (Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers), which are highly toxic chemicals. These have been detected in breast milk, house dust, and even dryer lint, making them a serious health concern.Permanent Press, Moth Proof, Shrink Proof
These finishes often contain formaldehyde, which can irritate the skin and respiratory system, and may pose long-term health risks."Wash Separately" Label
If you see this label, it indicates a high concentration of dye in the fabric. Dyes used in dark blue, brown, and black synthetic clothing can be absorbed by your skin, potentially causing allergic reactions like contact dermatitis. Remember: if it bleeds in the wash, it can bleed into your skin too!FINAL TIPS
When adding new pieces to your wardrobe, try to aim for items made from at least 90% natural fibers. If you find something you love that's not quite all-natural, look for a 90%/10% blend.
If you do purchase garments with synthetic fibers, be sure to wash them before wearing—preferably with a green, eco-friendly detergent to remove any residual chemicals.
To avoid harsh chemicals like perchloroethylene (perc) used in dry cleaning, consider hand washing your clothes whenever possible. This is a simple step that can help reduce your exposure to harmful toxins.
