Are ‘Forever Chemicals’ Hiding In Your Gym Wear

Are ‘Forever Chemicals’ Hiding In Your Gym Wear? How Worried Should You Be

From early morning jogs in parks to all-day wear in offices and cafés, athleisure in form of stretch leggings, moisture-wicking T-shirts and stain-resistant jackets is no longer limited to the gym. But a recent report by The Washington Post has drawn attention to the presence of PFAS, often called “forever chemicals," in workout wear.

The concern was triggered by scrutiny around Lululemon, one of the world’s most recognisable fitness apparel brands. While the company has said it is working to phase out certain chemicals, the issue raises a fundamental question — what exactly are we wearing on our skin every day, and what does it do to our bodies?

What Are PFAS, And Why Are They Used In Clothing?

PFAS, short for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are a large group of synthetic chemicals widely used in consumer products.

Since the 1940s, PFAS have been extensively used in everyday products, from firefighting foams and stain- or water-resistant coatings to non-stick cookware and food packaging. Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows that nearly all Americans have measurable levels of these chemicals in their blood.

PFAS are known for their ability to repel water, resist stains and enhance durability — qualities that make them especially attractive for activewear.

That sweat-resistant gym shirt or quick-dry pair of leggings often owes its performance to such chemical treatments. According to a Guardian report, these substances can be present in textiles designed to handle moisture and odour, making them common in sportswear.

The problem lies in their defining feature, that is, PFAS do not break down easily. They persist in the environment and, over time, can accumulate in the human body. This durability has earned them the nickname “forever chemicals."

How Toxic Are They, Really?

Studies have linked certain PFAS compounds to a range of health risks, including fertility issues, developmental delays in children, immune system disruption and some cancers. While not all PFAS behave identically, the broader class is under growing regulatory and scientific scrutiny worldwide.

“Gym wear may contain chemicals such as PFAS, formaldehyde resins, azo dyes, and antimicrobial agents like triclosan or silver nanoparticles. While there is no direct evidence that gym wear alone causes skin cancer, certain chemicals like some dyes and finishing agents may be carcinogenic with long-term exposure. More commonly, they can trigger allergic reactions or skin irritation. Choosing certified, chemical-safe fabrics can help reduce potential risks," said Dr Mandeep Singh, Director & HOD (Plastic & Surgery), Paras Health, Gurugram.

According to the American Society for Reproductive Medicine, PFAS have been found in key reproductive tissues, including follicular and amniotic fluid, the placenta and even breast milk, raising concerns about how deeply these chemicals can enter the body.

Research suggests that exposure before conception may affect fertility, with links to reduced ovarian reserve, hormonal imbalances and poorer outcomes in assisted reproductive treatments.

During pregnancy, PFAS exposure has been associated with complications such as preeclampsia, restricted fetal growth and a higher risk of preterm birth.

There is also growing evidence connecting these chemicals to complex reproductive conditions, including Polycystic Ovary Syndrome and Endometriosis.

Importantly, most research has focused on major exposure routes such as contaminated water, food packaging and industrial pollution. Clothing is considered a secondary source. However, experts say it should not be dismissed, especially when garments are worn tightly against the skin for long periods.

“PFAS are used in some sportswear for water and stain resistance. These “forever chemicals" can persist on fabric and potentially transfer to the skin with prolonged wear. While occasional use is unlikely to cause immediate harm, repeated exposure, especially during intense workouts, may contribute to cumulative chemical absorption. From a dermatological standpoint, individuals with sensitive skin may also experience irritation or contact dermatitis," said Dr Singh.

How Sweat Acts As A Medium

One of the key concerns highlighted in the recent report is how PFAS behave under real-world conditions. When you exercise, your body heats up, pores open and sweat acts as a medium that can potentially facilitate chemical transfer.

According to other findings, the combination of prolonged skin contact and moisture could make activewear a more relevant exposure pathway than previously assumed.

A 2023 study by the American Chemical Society found that sweat can draw chemical additives out of plastics, making them available for absorption through the skin.

The research focused on a group of compounds known as brominated flame retardants (BFRs), widely used to reduce flammability in consumer products, including fabrics. These chemicals have been linked to health concerns such as thyroid disorders, hormonal disruption and neurological effects.

Scientists at the University of Birmingham noted that sweat contains oils, which have a lipophilic nature, meaning they can dissolve and carry chemicals from plastics. As a result, the natural oils on the skin may help pull these substances out of materials and into closer contact with the body.

“Sweat makes your skin more hydrated and open. When you wear tight workout clothes, it also gets hotter and there is more rubbing. This mix makes it easier for chemicals to come out of fabrics and stay close to your skin. Sweat can dissolve some of these chemicals, helping them get absorbed through your hair follicles and tiny skin openings. So, when you are working out, your skin is more likely to transfer chemicals than when it is dry and normal," said Dr Dimple Kothari, Visiting Consultant (Dermatology), Narayana Hospital, Jaipur.

What Is India’s Regulatory Blind Spot?

Despite the growing global conversation, India has limited public discourse or regulation specifically targeting PFAS in textiles. While international regulations in the EU and US are accelerating to ban PFAS in apparel, India’s approach remains fragmented, and heavily influenced by the economic, technical, and analytical challenges associated with transitioning away from these substances, as per a paper on ‘PFAS Contamination in Indian States’ published in Science Direct.

The findings underline the need for tighter regulation, stronger monitoring systems and greater awareness among both the public and policymakers to address the rising risk of PFAS contamination in India.

While there are standards for certain harmful chemicals in fabrics, particularly for exports, there is no widely enforced, consumer-facing labelling system that tells buyers whether their clothes contain PFAS.

India enforces stringent standards for hazardous chemicals in textile exports, largely in line with global benchmarks such as the EU’s REACH framework and OEKO-TEX. These rules ban a wide range of azo dyes, limit formaldehyde content and regulate the presence of heavy metals, with compliance typically verified through certifications from agencies like SGS or TÜV Rheinland.

This creates a transparency gap. Consumers cannot easily distinguish between treated and untreated garments, especially when marketing terms like “moisture-wicking" or “performance fabric" are used without detailed disclosure.

How Clothing Is A Primary Source Of Exposure To Chemicals

Another reason experts are paying attention to PFAS in clothing is the idea of cumulative exposure. These chemicals are already found globally in drinking water, food packaging and even air. Each additional source, however small on its own, adds to the total burden on the human body.

Clothing may not be the primary source of exposure, but it is one of the most intimate. Unlike packaging or environmental exposure, garments are in constant contact with the skin. Over time, even low-level exposure could contribute to overall risk.

This is particularly relevant in urban India, where lifestyle changes have increased dependence on synthetic fabrics. The shift from cotton to polyester-based athleisure, driven by comfort and fashion trends, may inadvertently increase contact with chemically treated materials.

What Are Brands Doing About It?

Globally, pressure is building on brands to move away from PFAS. Some companies, including Lululemon, have announced plans to phase out certain chemical treatments in the coming years. Several global brands, including Levi Strauss & Co., Patagonia, KEEN, Vaude, Jack Wolfskin and Houdini Sportswear, have either already phased out PFAS or set clear, time-bound targets to remove them from their products.

Retailers, too, are tightening standards for their in-house lines. IKEA eliminated PFAS from all its textiles as early as 2016, while Coop Denmark has banned these chemicals across its private-label range.

The shift is also visible in the beauty industry, where companies are reformulating long-wear products. L’Oréal has pledged to eliminate PFAS by the end of 2024, and Sephora has added them to its “Clean at Sephora" standards.

However, transitioning away from PFAS is not straightforward. These chemicals are effective, inexpensive and deeply embedded in manufacturing processes. Finding safer alternatives that deliver the same performance without environmental persistence remains a challenge.

How Worried Should Consumers Be?

The emerging evidence does not suggest that wearing gym clothes will immediately harm your health. But it does highlight that everyday products can be sources of chemical exposure that often go unnoticed.

Dr Singh advised people to “choose breathable, high-quality fabrics labelled as PFAS-free or OEKO-TEX certified to minimise chemical exposure". He also suggested that one should wash new clothes before using them to remove surface residues. “Avoid overly tight or non-breathable garments that trap sweat and increase irritation risk. Change out of sweaty clothes promptly after workouts and maintain good hygiene. Individuals with sensitive skin should opt for natural fibres or dermatologist-recommended materials. Prioritizing comfort and skin safety can significantly reduce potential dermatological concerns."

The concern was triggered by scrutiny around Lululemon, one of the world’s most recognisable fitness apparel brands. While the company has said it is working to phase out certain chemicals, the issue raises a fundamental question — what exactly are we wearing on our skin every day, and what does it do to our bodies?

What Are PFAS, And Why Are They Used In Clothing?

PFAS, short for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are a large group of synthetic chemicals widely used in consumer products.

Since the 1940s, PFAS have been extensively used in everyday products, from firefighting foams and stain- or water-resistant coatings to non-stick cookware and food packaging. Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows that nearly all Americans have measurable levels of these chemicals in their blood.

PFAS are known for their ability to repel water, resist stains and enhance durability — qualities that make them especially attractive for activewear.

That sweat-resistant gym shirt or quick-dry pair of leggings often owes its performance to such chemical treatments. According to a Guardian report, these substances can be present in textiles designed to handle moisture and odour, making them common in sportswear.

The problem lies in their defining feature, that is, PFAS do not break down easily. They persist in the environment and, over time, can accumulate in the human body. This durability has earned them the nickname “forever chemicals.”

How Toxic Are They, Really?

Studies have linked certain PFAS compounds to a range of health risks, including fertility issues, developmental delays in children, immune system disruption and some cancers. While not all PFAS behave identically, the broader class is under growing regulatory and scientific scrutiny worldwide.

“Gym wear may contain chemicals such as PFAS, formaldehyde resins, azo dyes, and antimicrobial agents like triclosan or silver nanoparticles. While there is no direct evidence that gym wear alone causes skin cancer, certain chemicals like some dyes and finishing agents may be carcinogenic with long-term exposure. More commonly, they can trigger allergic reactions or skin irritation. Choosing certified, chemical-safe fabrics can help reduce potential risks,” said Dr Mandeep Singh, Director & HOD (Plastic & Surgery), Paras Health, Gurugram.

According to the American Society for Reproductive Medicine, PFAS have been found in key reproductive tissues, including follicular and amniotic fluid, the placenta and even breast milk, raising concerns about how deeply these chemicals can enter the body.

Research suggests that exposure before conception may affect fertility, with links to reduced ovarian reserve, hormonal imbalances and poorer outcomes in assisted reproductive treatments.

During pregnancy, PFAS exposure has been associated with complications such as preeclampsia, restricted fetal growth and a higher risk of preterm birth.

There is also growing evidence connecting these chemicals to complex reproductive conditions, including Polycystic Ovary Syndrome and Endometriosis.

Importantly, most research has focused on major exposure routes such as contaminated water, food packaging and industrial pollution. Clothing is considered a secondary source. However, experts say it should not be dismissed, especially when garments are worn tightly against the skin for long periods.

“PFAS are used in some sportswear for water and stain resistance. These “forever chemicals” can persist on fabric and potentially transfer to the skin with prolonged wear. While occasional use is unlikely to cause immediate harm, repeated exposure, especially during intense workouts, may contribute to cumulative chemical absorption. From a dermatological standpoint, individuals with sensitive skin may also experience irritation or contact dermatitis,” said Dr Singh.

How Sweat Acts As A Medium

One of the key concerns highlighted in the recent report is how PFAS behave under real-world conditions. When you exercise, your body heats up, pores open and sweat acts as a medium that can potentially facilitate chemical transfer.

According to other findings, the combination of prolonged skin contact and moisture could make activewear a more relevant exposure pathway than previously assumed.

A 2023 study by the American Chemical Society found that sweat can draw chemical additives out of plastics, making them available for absorption through the skin.

The research focused on a group of compounds known as brominated flame retardants (BFRs), widely used to reduce flammability in consumer products, including fabrics. These chemicals have been linked to health concerns such as thyroid disorders, hormonal disruption and neurological effects.

Scientists at the University of Birmingham noted that sweat contains oils, which have a lipophilic nature, meaning they can dissolve and carry chemicals from plastics. As a result, the natural oils on the skin may help pull these substances out of materials and into closer contact with the body.

“Sweat makes your skin more hydrated and open. When you wear tight workout clothes, it also gets hotter and there is more rubbing. This mix makes it easier for chemicals to come out of fabrics and stay close to your skin. Sweat can dissolve some of these chemicals, helping them get absorbed through your hair follicles and tiny skin openings. So, when you are working out, your skin is more likely to transfer chemicals than when it is dry and normal,” said Dr Dimple Kothari, Visiting Consultant (Dermatology), Narayana Hospital, Jaipur.

What Is India’s Regulatory Blind Spot?

Despite the growing global conversation, India has limited public discourse or regulation specifically targeting PFAS in textiles. While international regulations in the EU and US are accelerating to ban PFAS in apparel, India’s approach remains fragmented, and heavily influenced by the economic, technical, and analytical challenges associated with transitioning away from these substances, as per a paper on ‘PFAS Contamination in Indian States’ published in Science Direct.

The findings underline the need for tighter regulation, stronger monitoring systems and greater awareness among both the public and policymakers to address the rising risk of PFAS contamination in India.

While there are standards for certain harmful chemicals in fabrics, particularly for exports, there is no widely enforced, consumer-facing labelling system that tells buyers whether their clothes contain PFAS.

India enforces stringent standards for hazardous chemicals in textile exports, largely in line with global benchmarks such as the EU’s REACH framework and OEKO-TEX. These rules ban a wide range of azo dyes, limit formaldehyde content and regulate the presence of heavy metals, with compliance typically verified through certifications from agencies like SGS or TÜV Rheinland.

This creates a transparency gap. Consumers cannot easily distinguish between treated and untreated garments, especially when marketing terms like “moisture-wicking” or “performance fabric” are used without detailed disclosure.

How Clothing Is A Primary Source Of Exposure To Chemicals

Another reason experts are paying attention to PFAS in clothing is the idea of cumulative exposure. These chemicals are already found globally in drinking water, food packaging and even air. Each additional source, however small on its own, adds to the total burden on the human body.

Clothing may not be the primary source of exposure, but it is one of the most intimate. Unlike packaging or environmental exposure, garments are in constant contact with the skin. Over time, even low-level exposure could contribute to overall risk.

This is particularly relevant in urban India, where lifestyle changes have increased dependence on synthetic fabrics. The shift from cotton to polyester-based athleisure, driven by comfort and fashion trends, may inadvertently increase contact with chemically treated materials.

What Are Brands Doing About It?

Globally, pressure is building on brands to move away from PFAS. Some companies, including Lululemon, have announced plans to phase out certain chemical treatments in the coming years. Several global brands, including Levi Strauss & Co., Patagonia, KEEN, Vaude, Jack Wolfskin and Houdini Sportswear, have either already phased out PFAS or set clear, time-bound targets to remove them from their products.

Retailers, too, are tightening standards for their in-house lines. IKEA eliminated PFAS from all its textiles as early as 2016, while Coop Denmark has banned these chemicals across its private-label range.

The shift is also visible in the beauty industry, where companies are reformulating long-wear products. L’Oréal has pledged to eliminate PFAS by the end of 2024, and Sephora has added them to its “Clean at Sephora” standards.

However, transitioning away from PFAS is not straightforward. These chemicals are effective, inexpensive and deeply embedded in manufacturing processes. Finding safer alternatives that deliver the same performance without environmental persistence remains a challenge.

How Worried Should Consumers Be?

The emerging evidence does not suggest that wearing gym clothes will immediately harm your health. But it does highlight that everyday products can be sources of chemical exposure that often go unnoticed.

Dr Singh advised people to “choose breathable, high-quality fabrics labelled as PFAS-free or OEKO-TEX certified to minimise chemical exposure”. He also suggested that one should wash new clothes before using them to remove surface residues. “Avoid overly tight or non-breathable garments that trap sweat and increase irritation risk. Change out of sweaty clothes promptly after workouts and maintain good hygiene. Individuals with sensitive skin should opt for natural fibres or dermatologist-recommended materials. Prioritizing comfort and skin safety can significantly reduce potential dermatological concerns.”

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Source: News18
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