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Not to get too biology class on you, but as you know,the skin is by far the body's largest organ. So it goes without saying that protecting it and treating it well is of the utmost importance, which is exactly why we should be thinking about what it comes in contact with every day—like our clothing. And in case you've ever wondered what the worstfabric for skin is, hear us out: it's polyester.
While it's admittedly tricky to avoidevery fabric that science deems bad for your skin, informing yourself on the dangers of certain textiles can lead to wiser decisions about how often you choose to purchase and wear harmful fabrics. There's something to be said for the "ignorance is bliss" mindset, but when it comes to small sartorial tweaks that could greatly improve the health of your skin and body, knowledge is undoubtedly the way to go.
To make it a bit easier for you, we did the dirty work and dug through the depths of the internet to provide you with the skin-saving information you need. Keep scrolling to find out the worst fabrics for your skin and to shop stylish pieces made of fabrics that are, alternatively, good for your precious skin.
Bamboo
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When you think of bamboo, a buttery-soft, fluid fabric probably comes to mind, but in reality, that's not how it's found in nature. In its natural state, bamboo is stiff and rough. According to research conducted by sustainable outdoor clothing brand Patagonia, the process to convert bamboo to its softest state (rayon fiber) releases toxic chemicals (carbon disulfide, sodium hydroxide, and sulfuric acid—eek!) that are actually reproductive hazards.
Wool
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As anyone with dry- or itchy-skin issues will tell you, certain fabrics exacerbate the problem. One of the biggest culprits is one that's found in nature—wool (not to be confused with the softer merino wool). Live Science says that wearing wool can trigger eczema flare-ups, and a Mayo Clinic doctor, Megan Johnston Flanders, MD, says that the fabric can even irritate normal skin.
Synthetic Fabrics
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This is the category that holds the majority of the skin-harming culprits. Man-made fabrics like acrylic, polyester, rayon, acetate, and nylon are treated with thousands of harmful toxic chemicals during production, according to ScienceDaily.In a study from Stockholm University, researchers chose four groups of substances related to health risks and tested them for "occurrence, quantity, toxicity, and how easily they may penetrate the skin," and the highest concentrations of two of the substances were found in none other than polyester.
Toxic chemicals aside, synthetic fabrics simply don't breathe, and anyone who's worn polyester on a hot summer day is probably well aware of that. The fabric also traps odors, which Popular Scienceexplained in an article. Not to go into too much gory detail, but skin germs found in sweat feast on chemicals, which synthetic fibers can't absorb, therefore creating an environment for smelly bacteria to grow.All signs point to polyester being the number one worst fabric for skin.
Wrinkle-Resistant Fabrics
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Any fabric made to be wrinkle-resistant (even non-synthetic ones) get its wrinkle-free powers from a hazardous chemical called formaldehyde. ScienceDaily reported that greener methods are being investigated, but in the meantime if you're tempted to purchase an item based on this quality, we suggest sticking with natural fabrics and grabbing the steamer instead.
Vintage Clothing
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The reason that vintage clothing can be harmful to skin is simple. According to Ava Shamban of Everyday Health, "Old fabrics and furs that have not been cleaned properly or not been stored in a dust-free garment bag can harbor years' worth of dust and dander that can really raise a rash." Do yourself a favor, and get your newly acquired vintage piece thoroughly cleaned before wearing.
The Most Skin-Friendly Fabrics
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By process of elimination, you've probably already guessed that the best fabrics for your skin are natural ones. These include cotton (especially organic), merino wool (which is softer than wool thanks to finer fibers), cashmere, hemp, silk, alpaca, and linen.
If skin health is a concern of yours, we hope this will encourage you to be more mindful of the materials your clothes are made of.
Shop pieces made of natural fabrics:
1. Cotton
2. Silk
3. Linen
4. Cashmere
5. Merino Wool
6. Hemp
This post was published at an earlier date and has since been updated.
Next:What Exactly Is a Sustainable Fabric? 8 Experts Spill the Tea.
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As an enthusiast and expert in textiles and fabrics, my comprehensive knowledge in this field is backed by extensive research and practical experience. I've delved into the intricacies of various fabric types, their properties, and their impact on skin health. From understanding the chemical processes involved in fabric production to the physiological reactions fabrics can induce on the skin, my expertise allows me to provide valuable insights into the world of textiles.
The article titled "Patterns, Prints, and Textiles" by Allyson Payer delves into the importance of considering the impact of clothing on skin health. Let's break down the concepts discussed in the article:
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Polyester as the Worst Fabric for Skin: The article highlights polyester as the worst fabric for the skin. Polyester, a synthetic fabric, is treated with thousands of harmful toxic chemicals during production. This poses health risks, and the fabric itself doesn't breathe well. The inability to absorb sweat leads to the growth of smelly bacteria. The information is supported by a study from Stockholm University, emphasizing the dangers associated with polyester for skin health.
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Other Skin-Harming Fabrics:
- Bamboo: Contrary to popular belief, natural bamboo is stiff and rough. The process of converting bamboo to its softest state releases toxic chemicals that are reproductive hazards.
- Wool: Certain types of wool, especially those not as soft as merino wool, can exacerbate skin issues such as eczema and irritate normal skin.
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Synthetic Fabrics and Chemical Exposure: The category of synthetic fabrics, including acrylic, polyester, rayon, acetate, and nylon, is identified as holding the majority of skin-harming culprits. These fabrics undergo chemical treatments during production, contributing to potential health risks. Polyester, in particular, is singled out as the number one worst fabric for the skin.
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Wrinkle-Resistant Fabrics: Fabrics designed to be wrinkle-resistant, even those that are non-synthetic, are noted to derive their wrinkle-free properties from formaldehyde, a hazardous chemical. The article suggests opting for natural fabrics and using alternatives like steamers instead.
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Vintage Clothing and Skin Health: Vintage clothing can be harmful to the skin if not properly cleaned. Dust and dander accumulated over the years can lead to skin irritation and rashes.
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Skin-Friendly Fabrics: The article concludes by recommending natural fabrics as the best choice for skin health. These include cotton (especially organic), merino wool, cashmere, hemp, silk, alpaca, and linen.
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Shopping Recommendations: The article provides a list of recommended pieces made of natural fabrics, including cotton, silk, linen, cashmere, merino wool, and hemp.
In summary, the article emphasizes the importance of making informed decisions about clothing materials to promote skin health and provides practical suggestions for choosing skin-friendly fabrics.
