Non-Toxic Fashion - Why What We Wear Matters
NON-TOXIC FASHION is becoming increasingly common as new and established clothing brands turn to healthier, more eco-friendly materials and production methods. This approach refers to clothing, accessories and manufacturing practices that minimise or eliminate microplastics and harmful chemicals known to impact human health and the environment. Importantly, non-toxic fashion considers the entire lifecycle of a garment—from raw materials and production to use and eventual disposal.
By contrast, toxic fashion refers to clothing made from synthetic materials such as polyesters, nylon, lycra and acrylic. Traditionally, sportswear has relied on these fabrics due to their shape retention, durability, easy maintenance and affordability. However, growing research has highlighted that many synthetic textiles release microplastics, per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and other potentially harmful chemicals into both the environment and human body through perspiration and washing.
Polyester – a plastic made from petroleum – is one of the most widely used fabrics in the activewear market and one of the biggest contributors to microplastic pollution. In the 2024 documentary, ‘Buy Now: The Shopping Conspiracy’, Roger Lee explains:
“When we wash synthetic clothing made from polyester, microplastics are released and enter the water systems and environment - and eventually return to us through the food we eat”.
Once inside the body, microplastics have been linked to inflammation and broader health concerns. The location of clothing on the body matters too. Author, Anna Maria Clement notes in Killer Clothes (2011) that prolonged contact with synthetic fabrics such as nylon and polyester – particularly in bras – may be associated with increased rates of breast cancer and hormonal disruption.
Another hidden issue in synthetic activewear is the presence of PFAS often referred to as ‘forever chemicals’ due to their persistence in the environment and the body. These chemicals are commonly used to improve stain resistance, water repellency and durability. A major 2024 found that PFAS can weaken the immune system and may increase the risk of certain cancers. Many synthetic fabrics also employ the chemical compound BPA (Bisphenol A) to enhance moisture-wicking and performance features. BPA is a known endocrine disruptor and has been linked to reduced fertility, respiratory irritation and skin sensitivities.
Perhaps, surprisingly one of the most polluting stages of clothing production is the colour dyeing process. At this stage large quantities of toxic chemicals are introduced into fabrics. Sparxell, a company developing 100% plant-based colourants, is working to eliminate harmful substances from textile colouration. Its COO Simon Kew states:
“Colourisation is the most polluting aspect of the textile and fashion industry” (WiTN podcast 125).
While natural dyes derived from plants are more expensive, they offer a far healthier alternative for both people and the planet.
ShyAktive is committed to embracing non-toxic fashion by using natural materials and dyes wherever possible. Because activewear is designed to support the body during movement and sweat, fabric choice matters.
We encourage consumers to shop for brands that prioritise natural materials such as TENCEL ™, bamboo, hemp and organic cotton, use low impact or plant-based dyes and hold certifications including OEKO-TEX ®, STANDARD 100, PFAS free, BPA free, and PEFC. Natural fabrics tend to stay fresher for longer and require less frequent washing They cost more upfront but their durability and health benefits make them a worthwhile investment.
While it is impossible to fully eliminate synthetic materials (such as spandex) from activewear due to the stretch requirements, the recommendation is for 10% or less (EcoCult, 2025).
At ShyAktive, our goal is to create natural sports bras and activewear garments that are stylish, comfortable, and functional—without compromising our health or the environment. We believe better fashion leads to better outcomes for everyone: the people who wear our clothes, the people who make them, and the world we live in.