Let's talk about a topic that might have you rethinking your workout wardrobe: the presence of PFAS in activewear, specifically leggings. PFAS, or "forever chemicals," are a concern due to their potential health risks and environmental impact. So, should we be worried about these chemicals in our leggings? Let's dive in and explore this issue from an analytical perspective.
The PFAS Problem
PFAS are man-made chemicals that have been linked to various health issues, including high cholesterol and weakened immunity. What makes them particularly concerning is their persistence; they take an incredibly long time to break down, leading to their accumulation in the environment and, worryingly, in our bodies. This has caught the attention of activists, who are pushing for stricter regulations.
PFAS in Leggings: A Growing Concern
The recent investigation into Lululemon, a popular activewear brand, by the Texas attorney general has brought PFAS in leggings into the spotlight. The brand is accused of not accurately representing the safety and health impacts of its products, which may contain PFAS. This raises important questions about the potential health risks associated with wearing PFAS-laden activewear.
Health Risks and Areas of Concern
Research suggests that PFAS can permeate the skin, especially in areas with thinner skin, such as the crotch, underarms, and neck. Dr. Graham Peaslee, a professor emeritus at Duke University, highlights the "high dermal absorption capability" of these areas. This means that frequent wearers of leggings, especially those who work out in them and sweat, may be at a higher risk of PFAS exposure.
Furthermore, every time PFAS-containing leggings are washed, they can shed these chemicals, which end up in our wastewater and potentially back in our drinking water. As Dr. Peaslee points out, even if you don't wear PFAS-containing leggings, you may still be exposed to them through the actions of others.
The Bigger Picture
While the potential health risks associated with wearing PFAS-containing leggings are concerning, it's important to put this into perspective. Dr. Scott Bartell, a professor of environmental and occupational health at UC Irvine, emphasizes that this is a relatively small part of our overall PFAS exposure. Our diet and drinking water are likely the biggest sources of exposure, as these provide a direct pathway into our bloodstream.
Managing PFAS Exposure
So, what can we do to minimize our exposure to PFAS? Dr. Bartell recommends using filters for drinking water and opting for hard floor coverings instead of carpets, some of which are manufactured with PFAS. Interestingly, donating blood can also help reduce PFAS levels in the body, as it has been shown to reduce levels by 10%. This, however, transfers PFAS to the recipient, so it's not a perfect solution.
The Role of Activewear Brands
Why do activewear brands use PFAS in the first place? Some brands intentionally add PFAS to make their clothing stain- or water-resistant. However, PFAS can also be unintentionally added during the manufacturing process. Alyssa Wicks, a researcher at Duke University, explains that PFAS can be used in machinery oils and other processes, leading to trace amounts ending up in the final product, even if the brand advertises it as PFAS-free.
Identifying PFAS-Free Leggings
Identifying PFAS-free leggings can be challenging, as there are no disclosure requirements in most places. However, our experts recommend looking for specific certifications. Dr. Bartell suggests checking for the OEKO-TEX certification, which guarantees a product is free from over 1,000 harmful chemicals, including intentionally added PFAS. Wicks recommends looking for the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) certification, which also prohibits PFAS.
PFAS-Free Activewear Options
There are activewear brands that prioritize PFAS-free products. Mate The Label, for example, has a GOTS certification and explicitly labels its products as PFAS-free. LNDR, another brand, holds an OEKO-TEX certification. Additionally, REI announced in 2023 that its clothing products would be PFAS-free, and their leggings are currently discounted for their anniversary sale.
Conclusion
The presence of PFAS in activewear, particularly leggings, is a valid concern. While the health risks associated with wearing PFAS-containing leggings are relatively small compared to other sources of exposure, it's still important to be aware and make informed choices. By opting for PFAS-free activewear and taking steps to minimize exposure in other areas, we can work towards reducing our overall PFAS intake. It's a complex issue, but with the right information and choices, we can take control and make a difference.
