Skin and Spandex: What You Need to Know

Our skin is our armour, protecting our internal organs, blood, lymphatic system, and everything in between. Unlike our furry friends, our skin is exposed to the elements and everything we choose to put on it. And here lies the problem: many of the products we apply daily contain toxic substances that can be easily absorbed, potentially leading to serious health concerns over time.

Some of these products may be:

Sorbolene and petroleum-based products - Vaseline, lip balms, baby oil, hand and body lotions, deoderants, shampoos and more are often derived from petrochemicals - they're not as "gentle" as they seem
Hormone replacement creams – some contain known carcinogens
Chemically based sunscreens – research (check PubMed for clinical trials) raises concerns about certain ingredients
Perfumes and most commercial moisturisers – many are laden with synthetic chemicals

Many people don't realise that materials like polyester, nylon, and spandex are petroleum-based, and can also release microplastics over time. Spandex, formerly known as lycra, is a synthetic fabric that contains high levels of plastics, including PVC-based compounds. When worn, especially in hot weather or during exercise, sweating can increase the absorption of these substances through the skin. Over time, prolonged exposure to synthetic fabrics may contribute to chemical accumulation in the body, potentially disrupting hormonal balance and overall health. Additionally, all clothing is dipped in formaldehyde after manufacturing, which is why labels advise you to wash before wearing. But spandex poses an even greater concern, not only for health but also for the environment, and it’s now found in nearly all types of clothing from underwear to everyday apparel, blended into fabrics for elasticity.

Beyond clothing, we are also at risk of plastic exposure through food and drink containers. Heating plastic, whether in a microwave, dishwasher, or even when left in a hot car, causes toxins to leach into food and beverages. Chemicals such as BPA (bisphenol A) and phthalates, found in many plastic products, are known endocrine disruptors, meaning they can interfere with the body's natural hormone regulation. Despite these well-documented risks, plastic containers are still widely used for heating and storing food.

A simple step? Choose natural fibres like cotton whenever possible—and always wash new garments before wearing them. Teach your children about the hidden dangers in our food, clothing, and everyday products, so they have the best chance of growing up healthy and strong.

Read clothing labels as carefully as you read food labels. The choices you make matter for your health and the planet. If you’re seeking a holistic approach to wellbeing, I invite you to visit me at my clinic today by emailing tammy.safi@gmail.com or by using the contact page.

See you all in good health, Tammy – Integrated Naturopath

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Tammy Safi of Greenacre Natural Therapies, acknowledges and respects Aboriginal people as the country's First People and Nations, and recognises Aboriginal people as the wise caretakers, nurturers, and traditional owners / occupants of Australia.

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