Polyester and other synthetic fabrics (like nylon, acrylic, and spandex) are widely used in clothing, especially activewear, but they can have negative effects on your body, especially with prolonged or intense use. Here’s a breakdown:

---

Potential Impacts of Synthetic Clothes on the Body:

1. Skin Irritation & Allergies

• Polyester is not breathable, which can trap heat and sweat, leading to rashes, itching, or flare-ups of conditions like eczema.
• Some people are allergic to chemical residues (like dyes or finishing agents) used in synthetic fabric processing.

2. Poor Breathability

• Synthetic fabrics don’t absorb moisture well. Instead, they wick sweat to the surface but can still leave skin damp in humid or intense workouts.
• This can lead to body odor, fungal infections (like athlete’s foot or yeast infections), and discomfort.

3. Bacterial Growth

• The damp, warm environment created by polyester is ideal for bacteria to thrive, particularly in underwear, socks, or workout gear.
• Some studies suggest synthetic clothing harbors more odor-causing bacteria than natural fibers like cotton.

4. Endocrine Disruption (Theoretical/Under Study)

• Some synthetic textiles are treated with plasticizers or flame retardants, which may contain hormone-disrupting chemicals (e.g., phthalates or BPA).
• While exposure from clothing is still under scientific review, skin absorption is possible and being closely studied.

5. Microplastic Exposure

• Every time you wear and wash synthetic clothing, microfibers are released, which can be inhaled or absorbed through the skin in small amounts, though the full health effects are still being researched.

---

When Are Synthetics Safe or Helpful?

• In moderation and with good hygiene, synthetic clothes—especially high-quality performance gear is ok to use sometimes. Make sure you do not wear it all day.
• Look for anti-microbial treatments, breathable mesh designs, and OEKO-TEX®-certified or Bluesign®-approved fabrics that minimize chemical exposure.

Try to avoid fast fashion, these pieces won’t last long, the average is a couple of month. It does not wash well, you have to iron it to look akzeptable. These pieces loose their shape and color fast.

What is fast fashion?

Fast fashion is a business model where clothing is made quickly and cheaply to keep up with the latest trends. Brands produce large volumes of trendy, low-cost clothes that encourage frequent buying and rapid disposal, often at the cost of environmental sustainability and ethical labor practices.

Criticisms:

Consumer Culture

• Creates overconsumption and a throwaway culture
• Undermines appreciation for quality and craftsmanship

The environment impact of fast fashion;

Resource Consumption

• Water Use: The fashion industry is one of the largest consumers of water.
  • Example: It takes about 2,700 liters of water to make one cotton shirt — enough drinking water for one person for over 2 years.
• Energy Use: Fast fashion relies on synthetic fibers like polyester, which are derived from fossil fuels. Polyester production emits 2–3 times more carbon than cotton.

---

Pollution

• Textile Dyeing:
  • The fashion industry is the second-largest polluter of clean water globally, largely due to dyeing processes.
  • Harmful chemicals used in dyeing often end up in rivers and oceans, affecting aquatic life and human health.
• Microplastics:
  • Washing synthetic clothing (e.g., polyester, nylon) releases microplastics into waterways.
  • These plastics do not biodegrade and have entered the global food chain.

---

Waste

• Clothing Waste:
  • An estimated 92 million tons of textile waste is generated globally each year.
  • Most fast fashion is not recycled; instead, it ends up in landfills or incinerators.
• Short Lifespan:
  • Because of poor quality and constant trend changes, many garments are worn only a few times before disposal.

Pros:

1. Comfort & Flexibility: Designed with stretchy, breathable fabrics like spandex and polyester that move with your body.
2. Moisture-Wicking: Helps draw sweat away from your skin, keeping you dry and reducing chafing.
3. Support: Items like sports bras and compression gear provide muscle and joint support.
4. Performance Enhancement: Well-fitted gear can improve mobility and reduce injury risk.
5. Temperature Control: Some fabrics offer ventilation or thermal insulation depending on your needs.

---

Cons:

1. Environmental Impact: Most workout clothes are made from synthetic materials that shed microplastics and are hard to recycle.
2. Cost: High-quality activewear can be expensive.
3. Odor Retention: Some synthetic fabrics can trap sweat smells even after washing.
4. Durability Issues: Low-cost or poorly made items may lose stretch, fade, or tear with frequent use.
5. Fashion Over Function: Some trendy styles prioritize looks over actual workout performance.