Dear Two Moons Readers,
My name is Mary Bemis, and I’m the founder of Reprise, a line of plant-based and nontoxic activewear. Seven years ago, I discovered that over 90% of my closet was made with plastic. Concerned about the environmental impact of microplastics, I started researching the effects of synthetic fabrics—and what I found was alarming. Many of these materials contain high levels of BPA, a known endocrine disruptor, along with other hormone disrupting chemicals. The more I learned, the clearer it became that we needed a better alternative. At Reprise, our mission is to remove plastics from fashion and educate women about the risks of hormone disruptors in clothing. Today, I’m excited to share more about the link between hormones and clothing—and how making informed choices can support both personal health and the planet.
The Overlooked Connection Between Clothing and the Endocrine System
When we think about hormone health, we often focus on diet, stress, and lifestyle—but what about the clothes we wear every day? Many modern fabrics contain synthetic materials like Polyester and Nylon, and chemical treatments that act as hormone disruptors, affecting everything from menstrual cycles to fertility and metabolism. Industrial chemicals used in fabric production also contribute to these health issues. By making informed choices about what we wear, we can reduce exposure to these endocrine disruptors and support our long-term health.
What is a Hormone Disruptor and How Does Clothing Play a Role?
Hormone disruptors, also known as endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs), interfere with the body’s natural hormone functions. These chemicals mimic, block, or alter hormone activity, leading to imbalances that can impact reproductive health, metabolism, and even mental well-being.
Clothing is a significant but often overlooked source of hormone disrupting chemicals. Many synthetic fabrics are made from petroleum-based plastics and are treated with chemical finishes that are absorbed through the skin or inhaled.
Plastics and Synthetic Chemicals in Clothing: What Are You Really Wearing?
Over 60% of all clothing today is made from Polyester, however nearly all activewear and leggings contain synthetic fibers made from plastic. These materials include:
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Polyester – A widely used fabric made from polyethylene terephthalate (PET), which is linked to hormone disruption and microplastic shedding.
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Nylon – A plastic-based fiber commonly found in activewear and hosiery, which doesn’t breathe well and can trap heat and moisture, which may increase the absorption of any chemical treatments or disrupt the skin’s microbiome.
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Spandex (Elastane/ Lycra) – Found in stretchy clothing. While spandex itself is not classified as a known endocrine disruptor, it is often blended with polyester, which has potential hormone-disrupting effects.
- Acrylic and Polyurethane – Found in sweaters, coats, and faux leather, these materials often contain chemical additives.
These synthetic fabrics don’t just sit on the skin—they shed microplastics that can be inhaled or absorbed. Studies have linked microplastics and hormones, suggesting these tiny particles may contribute to endocrine disruption.
Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals List: The Hidden Toxins in Clothing
Many synthetic fabrics are also treated with hormone disrupting chemicals to improve durability, wrinkle resistance, and water repellency. These treatments often include:
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Bisphenol A (BPA) – Found in polyester and recycled plastic fabrics, BPA mimics estrogen and has been linked to hormone disruption, fertility issues, and PCOS.
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PFAS (“Forever Chemicals”) – Used to make clothing stain-resistant and waterproof, PFAS have been associated with thyroid dysfunction and reproductive issues.
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Phthalates – Often found in plastisol prints and synthetic fabrics, phthalates are linked to metabolic disorders and hormonal imbalances.
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Formaldehyde – Used in anti-wrinkle treatments, formaldehyde exposure has been classified as a potential carcinogen.
- Flame retardants – Added to clothing to inhibit fire spread, these chemicals can act as endocrine disruptors and are harmful to health.
These chemicals don’t simply wash out—studies show they can leach from clothing over time, leading to prolonged exposure.
Plastics and Hormone Disruption: How Clothing Affects Women’s Health
Women are particularly vulnerable to hormone disruptors due to their complex endocrine system and reproductive cycles. Endocrine disruptors affect reproductive systems in both males and females and lead to various health issues. Exposure to synthetic fabrics and their chemical treatments has been linked to:
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Estrogen Dominance – Many endocrine disruptors act as xenoestrogens, disrupting the balance of estrogen and progesterone, contributing to PMS, fibroids, and heavy periods.
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Thyroid Disorders – PFAS and BPA have been associated with thyroid dysfunction, affecting metabolism and energy levels.
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Fertility Issues – BPA, phthalates, and PFAS have been linked to irregular ovulation and difficulty conceiving.
- PCOS and Metabolic Disorders – Endocrine disruptors may contribute to insulin resistance and weight gain, both common in PCOS.
How to Reduce Exposure to Hormone Disruptors in Clothing
While it may be difficult to avoid all synthetic fabrics, you can take steps to minimize your exposure to hormone disrupting chemicals:
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Choose Natural Fibers – Opt for organic cotton, hemp, linen, wool, or TENCEL™ (made from eucalyptus trees), which are free from petroleum-based plastics.
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Look for Certifications – Brands with OEKO-TEX® 100*, GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard)**, or Bluesign®*** certifications ensure lower chemical exposure.
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Avoid “Performance” Treatments – Water-resistant, wrinkle-free, and anti-microbial clothing often contains hormone disruptors like PFAS.
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Wash Before Wearing – New clothes often carry residues from dyes and chemical treatments. Wash them with a non-toxic detergent before wearing.
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Be Cautious with Recycled Polyester – While it’s marketed as sustainable, recycled plastic fabrics can still release BPA and microplastics.
- Shop with Reprise – Our TENCEL™, non-toxic activewear is made without synthetic materials, helping you avoid polyester endocrine disruptors while staying comfortable and stylish.
Conclusion: Small Changes, Big Impact
The clothes we wear every day are an overlooked factor in our overall health. I am passionate about advocating for policies that keep toxic chemicals out of our environment. By understanding the risks of hormone disruptors in clothing and making small, intentional swaps, we can support our hormonal health and well-being.
Switching to non-toxic, natural fabrics doesn’t have to happen overnight, but each conscious choice can help reduce exposure to hormone disrupting chemicals.
Find more advice on balancing your hormones naturally at @twomoonshealth.
Ready to detox your closet and support your hormones? Explore our guide on seed cycling to balance your hormones naturally.
*OEKO-TEX® 100: Certifies that textiles are tested for harmful substances and are safe for human use.
**GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard): Ensures textiles are made with organic fibers and meet high environmental and social standards.
***Bluesign®: Focuses on reducing chemical impact in textiles, ensuring safer and more sustainable production.
While this blog discusses health topics, it is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or other qualified healthcare provider regarding any question you might have regarding your health.
About the Author
Mary is the Founder of Reprise Activewear, a line of plant-based and nontoxic activewear that she started with a Kickstarter campaign in 2018 after learning that over 90% of our clothing is made with plastic and realizing its negative health and planetary impacts. She has bootstrapped Reprise and has handled everything from sourcing custom non-toxic textiles to partnering with local and international manufacturers to continue to offer the best in clean activewear.
References
Prata, J. C., da Costa, J. P., Lopes, I., Duarte, A. C., & Rocha-Santos, T. (2020). Environmental exposure to microplastics: An overview on possible human health effects. The Science of the Total Environment, 702, 134455 https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0048969719344468
