Polyester health risks: What experts say about your clothes

Polyester is everywhere. It's in your gym leggings, your office shirt, your bedsheets. But how bad is it actually for your health? We asked dermatologists, toxicologists and textile researchers to break down the real risks.

Chemical exposure from synthetic fibres

Polyester is made from petroleum-derived plastics. During production, chemicals like antimony trioxide are used as catalysts. Studies have shown trace amounts of antimony can leach from polyester fabrics, especially when new or exposed to sweat.

“The amount is generally below safety limits for adults,” says Dr. Neha Sharma, a Mumbai-based dermatologist. “But for infants or people with compromised skin barriers, even low-level exposure can cause contact dermatitis.”

Another concern is formaldehyde resins, sometimes applied to polyester to prevent wrinkling. These can off-gas and irritate the eyes, nose and throat in poorly ventilated spaces.

What about phthalates?

Some polyester garments, particularly printed or coated ones, may contain phthalates to soften the fabric. Phthalates are endocrine disruptors linked to hormonal imbalances. The European Union has restricted their use in textiles, but India has no such ban.

“The risk is highest for children who put clothes in their mouth,” warns toxicologist Dr. Arvind Menon. “For adults, the dermal absorption rate is low, but chronic exposure remains poorly studied.”

Breathability and skin health

Polyester is hydrophobic — it repels water. This means sweat gets trapped against your skin instead of evaporating. The warm, moist environment becomes a breeding ground for bacteria and fungi.

“I see many patients with folliculitis and fungal infections from wearing synthetic activewear for hours without changing,” says Dr. Sharma. “Cotton or bamboo blends are much better for daily wear, especially in humid climates like India.”

The friction from polyester fibres can also exacerbate eczema and psoriasis. For people with sensitive skin, experts recommend avoiding polyester as a base layer.

Microplastic pollution and human ingestion

Every time you wash a polyester garment, it sheds thousands of microscopic plastic fibres. These microplastics enter rivers, oceans and eventually the food chain. A 2024 study found microplastics in 80% of human blood samples tested.

“We are still learning what happens once these particles lodge in tissues,” says Dr. Menon. “Early research suggests inflammation, oxidative stress and potential long-term effects on the gut microbiome.”

Washing polyester in a laundry bag designed to catch microfibres can reduce shedding by up to 80%. Air-drying instead of machine-drying also helps.

What about flame retardants?

Children's sleepwear and some upholstery made from polyester are often treated with flame retardants. Certain chemicals, like chlorinated tris, have been banned in several countries due to carcinogenic concerns, but not all nations have followed suit.

“Always check labels on children's clothing,” advises Dr. Menon. “If it says 'flame resistant' without specifying the chemical, it's worth choosing an untreated natural fibre alternative.”

How to reduce your risk

Experts say you don't need to throw away all your polyester. Simple steps can minimise harm. Wash new clothes before wearing to remove surface chemicals. Choose polyester blends with natural fibres like cotton or modal for better breathability. Avoid wearing synthetic fabric for more than a few hours if you sweat heavily.

For everyday basics — underwear, socks, undershirts — natural fibres are a safer bet. For activewear, look for brands that use OEKO-TEX certified polyester, which is tested for harmful substances.

The textile industry is slowly shifting. Innovations in bio-based polyester and recycled fibres are reducing reliance on virgin plastics. But until safer alternatives become mainstream, the burden remains on consumers to read labels and wash wisely.

What happens next? Watch for stricter regulations on chemical finishes in Indian textile exports, as the EU tightens its REACH standards. Consumer awareness is also growing, with more people demanding transparency from fashion brands about what goes into their clothes.