Your Activewear May Have a PFAS Problem

You Should Know: You may not think much about what your workout leggings are made of. But Texas just launched an investigation into Lululemon alleging its activewear may contain PFAS, or perfluoroalkyl substances, the dreaded “forever chemicals” linked to serious long-term health risks. Though Lululemon says it phased them out more than two years ago, this definitely makes you wonder what’s lurking in the rest of your closet.

Going Deeper: PFAS get into our clothing during manufacturing as a fluorinated coating that makes fabric repel water, stains, oil, and sweat. One independent test of 32 activewear pieces found fluorine in roughly one in four items. The chemicals have been linked to endocrine disruption, certain cancers, fertility concerns, and hormone imbalances. Research suggests they can permeate our skin through sweat and friction, but dermal absorption is a less efficient route into our bodies than swallowing or inhaling them.

Takeaway: To avoid this risk, look for OEKO-TEX Standard 100 or GOTS-certified labels (or check this list of PFAS-free products), and be careful with water-repellent, stain-resistant, wrinkle-free, or “performance” gear as those are the most likely to contain PFAS.

Bottom Line: The full health impact of PFAS in clothing requires more research, but cutting your exposure where it’s easy can’t hurt.