Talk of transdermal absorption is not what you might expect to overhear on the front row at London Fashion Week. Yet discussion about toxic substances passing from our clothes into the bloodstream through the skin is becoming more widespread.
Modern garments are frequently made from synthetic plastic-based fabrics, such as polyester and acrylic. The concern is not the plastic itself, but rather the chemical additives often used in these textiles, such as span dyes, PFAS and finishing agents. These can leach out, particularly when the fabric traps heat and sweat against the skin. It’s an area which has been broadly ignored — until now.
