References & Insights

Our mission is to empower you with transparent, science-backed information about the materials and chemicals commonly found in clothing and their potential health impacts. This page is designed to present you with clear, concise insights derived from rigorous scientific research, carefully curated and reviewed by our dedicated research team.

The studies included on this page have undergone thorough evaluation by our team to ensure their accuracy and relevance. We provide clear, concise insights into the potential health risks associated with various materials, chemicals, and substances commonly used in the textile industry. Rather than summarizing individual studies, we categorize each substance and highlight the specific health issues they may cause, supported by credible research sources.

Note: While we strive to present the most accurate and relevant information available, the summaries on this page do not replace a comprehensive review of the original studies. We encourage you to explore the linked research for full context and deeper understanding. Where studies are published in paywalled journals, we recommend using institutional access or consulting the publisher directly.

The health and safety claims presented on this page are grounded in current scientific research and evidence. However, it is important to acknowledge that research findings may have limitations, including variations in sample size, scope, and methodology. As scientific understanding evolves, so too may insights and conclusions related to the materials and chemicals discussed.

Individual experiences and results may vary. The information provided here is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended to serve as medical advice or guarantee specific health or environmental outcomes. Always consult a qualified professional for personalized advice and recommendations regarding your health and well-being.

The Risks of Synthetic Fabrics, Toxic Chemicals, & Substances

1. Polyester

Polyester is a widely used synthetic fabric, but research suggests that it may negatively impact sperm quality and male fertility. The electrostatic charges generated by polyester and its poor breathability can create an environment that disrupts spermatogenesis.

📌 Key Risks:

• Reduced Sperm Count & Quality: Studies show prolonged exposure to polyester underwear significantly decreases sperm count, motility, and increases abnormal sperm forms (P < 0.001).

• Testicular Tissue Damage: Polyester exposure led to degenerative changes in testicular tissue, suggesting possible long-term effects.

• Sperm Count Reduction: A study on dogs found that wearing polyester underwear led to reduced sperm count and testicular degeneration—effects that were reversed when polyester was removed.

• Sexual Activity Decline: A study on rats found that polyester-wearing subjects had significantly lower sexual activity compared to those in cotton or wool.

• Azoospermia (Zero Sperm Count): Research on men wearing polyester scrotal slings for contraception found reversible sperm suppression, likely due to heat retention and electrostatic effects.

🔗 Research Source: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8279095/ | https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8279095/ | https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8262106/ | https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1623716/ 

2. Phthalates

Phthalates are industrial chemicals used as plasticizers to make materials more flexible, including some polyester fabrics and dyes. Research has linked phthalates to hormonal imbalances, reproductive issues, and developmental problems in both adults and children.

📌 Key Risks:

• Endocrine Disruption: Phthalates interfere with testosterone production, leading to lower sperm concentration, motility, and abnormal morphology.

• Reproductive Health Issues: Studies show negative effects on male fertility, including hormonal imbalances and impaired semen quality.

• Developmental Concerns: Exposure during pregnancy has been associated with altered genital development, precocious puberty, and thyroid dysfunction.

• Potential Respiratory & Neurological Effects: Phthalates have been linked to an increased risk of asthma, ADHD, and neurodevelopmental issues in children.

• Potential Cancer Risk: Studies have found a strong link between urinary phthalates and an increased risk of cancer, reinforcing concerns about their long-term health effects.

🔗 Research Source: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38460665/ | https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11044039/ 

3. Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS), The “Forever Chemicals”

PFAS (Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances) are synthetic chemicals commonly used in waterproof and moisture-wicking clothing. They persist in the body and environment, leading to long-term health concerns.

📌 Key Risks:

• Hormone Disruption: PFAS are linked to low testosterone levels and potential fertility issues.

• Increased Cancer Risk: Studies suggest a link between PFAS exposure and testicular & kidney cancer.

• Liver & Immune System Damage: Long-term exposure to PFAS has been associated with immune suppression and liver disease.

🔗 Research Source: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37878255/ | https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0013935123023575 | https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11081924/ | https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/study-links-synthetic-chemicals-liver-damage 

4. Formaldehyde

Formaldehyde is sometimes used in clothing to prevent wrinkles and shrinkage, but it's also a known irritant and potential carcinogen.

📌 Key Risks:

• Skin & Respiratory Issues: Can cause rashes, allergic reactions, and breathing difficulties.

• Cancer Concerns: Long-term exposure has been linked to increased cancer risk.

🔗 Research Source: https://www.gao.gov/assets/gao-10-875.pdf | https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/risk/substances/formaldehyde 

5. Bisphenol-A (BPA)

Bisphenols are widely present in clothing, especially recycled fabrics, and can be absorbed by the skin, particularly when clothes are wet. The findings raise concerns about health risks associated with wearing synthetic and recycled textiles.

📌 Key Risks:

• Endocrine Disruption: BPA mimics estrogen, disrupting natural hormonal function.

• Reproductive & Developmental Issues: Exposure is linked to lower testosterone levels and impaired fertility.

• Potential Cancer Risk: Studies have suggested BPA exposure may contribute to breast & prostate cancer.

• Neurotoxicity: BPA has been linked to the damage of the nervous system, including the brain, spinal cord, and nerves. This can lead to issues like memory loss, learning disabilities, and developmental disorders.

• Hepatotoxicity – Toxic effects on the liver, including liver damage, inflammation, and dysfunction, have also been identified as one of BPA’s negative health impacts.

🔗 Research Sources:

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11415442/ | https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7846099/ | https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38513750/ 

7. Heavy Metals in Clothing

Metals are commonly used in textiles for various purposes, including dyes, flame retardants, antimicrobials, and water-repellent treatments. However, research has found that some synthetic fabrics, especially polyester, contain high levels of heavy metals that may pose potential health risks.

📌 Key Risks:

• Antimony in Polyester: High concentrations of antimony (141 mg/kg) were found in polyester fabrics, which exceeded 10% of the safety threshold for dermal exposure.

• Chromium in Dark Fabrics: Some synthetic fabrics, particularly dark-colored polyamide (nylon), contained extremely high levels of chromium (605 mg/kg)—a metal linked to skin irritation and allergic reactions.

• Copper in Cotton Fabrics: Certain green-dyed cotton fabrics contained elevated levels of copper (280 mg/kg), which could cause skin sensitivity.

• Arsenic in Textiles: Arsenic has been detected in certain textiles, particularly those with specific dyes and pigments. Chronic arsenic exposure can cause skin lesions, developmental effects, cardiovascular disease, neurotoxicity, and an increased risk of cancer.

• Copper in Colored Fabrics: High concentrations of copper (up to 179.315 mg/kg) were found in black, green, blue, and red-colored T-shirts. Excessive copper exposure can cause skin irritation and has been linked to systemic effects such as liver and kidney damage.

🔗 Research Sources:

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25889781/ | https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/arsenic | https://www.aafaglobal.org/AAFA/AAFA_News/2022_Press_Releases/Fashion_Industry_Study_Reveals_Dangerous_Chemicals_Heavy_Metals_Counterfeits.aspx | https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/arsenic | https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9488751/ 

8. Azo Dyes

Azo dyes are synthetic colorants commonly used in textiles, plastics, and cosmetics. While widely used for their vibrant colors, certain azo dyes can break down into aromatic amines, some of which are classified as carcinogenic and pose serious health risks.

📌 Key Risks:

• Potential Cancer Risk: Some azo dyes break down into carcinogenic aromatic amines, which have been linked to bladder and liver cancer.

• Skin Irritation & Allergic Reactions: Azo dyes can cause contact dermatitis, especially in individuals with sensitive skin.

🔗 Research Sources: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1134/S1061934820100044 | https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9529691/ 

9. Polyvinyl chloride PVC

Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is a synthetic plastic polymer used in some coated fabrics, synthetic leather, and waterproof textiles. While valued for its durability and flexibility, PVC poses significant health risks due to its chemical composition and potential release of harmful substances over time.

📌 Key Risks:

• Carcinogenic Potential: PVC contains vinyl chloride monomer (VCM), a known human carcinogen linked to liver cancer (angiosarcoma, hepatocellular carcinoma) and other cancers.

• Microplastics Contamination: PVC degrades into microplastics, which can enter the body through ingestion, inhalation, or skin contact, leading to oxidative stress, DNA damage, and inflammatory responses.

• Respiratory & Environmental Impact: Airborne microplastics from PVC materials have been associated with an increased risk of lung and colon cancer, particularly in occupational settings where PVC is manufactured or processed.

• Endocrine Disruption: Some PVC products contain phthalates and other plasticizers, which can interfere with hormone regulation, potentially affecting reproductive health and development.

🔗 Research Sources: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37742097/ | https://magazine.hms.harvard.edu/articles/microplastics-everywhere | https://respiratory-therapy.com/public-health/healthcare-policy/environmental-news/airborne-microplastics-linked-lung-colon-cancers/ 

10. Flame Retardants in Textiles

Flame retardants are chemicals added to fabrics to reduce flammability, commonly found in polyester, cotton blends, upholstery, curtains, and sleepwear. However, research has linked various types of flame retardants—including Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers (PBDEs), Brominated Flame Retardants (BFRs), Organophosphate Flame Retardants (OPFRs), and Tris(1,3-dichloro-2-propyl)phosphate (TDCPP)—to hormone disruption, neurotoxicity, and cancer risks.

📌 Key Risks:

• Hormone Disruption: Certain flame retardants interfere with endocrine function, affecting thyroid hormones and reproductive health.

• Reproductive Toxicity: Exposure has been linked to fertility issues, including reduced sperm quality and hormone imbalances.

• Neurotoxicity: Organophosphate flame retardants (OPFRs) have been associated with cognitive impairment and developmental disorders.

• Potential Cancer Risk: Studies suggest brominated flame retardants (BFRs) and Tris(1,3-dichloro-2-propyl)phosphate (TDCPP) may increase the risk of certain cancers.

🔗 Research Sources: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0022480422002967 | https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0378427424000328 | https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0300483X23002688

11. Nonylphenol Ethoxylates (NPEs)

Nonylphenol Ethoxylates (NPEs) are widely used as surfactants in industrial applications, including textile processing, detergents, and personal care products. Upon release into the environment, NPEs degrade into Nonylphenol (NP), a compound associated with several health concerns.

📌 Key Risks:

• Endocrine Disruption: NP can mimic estrogen, a natural hormone, potentially leading to hormonal imbalances.

• Reproductive Effects: Exposure to NP has been linked to reduced male fertility and developmental abnormalities.

• Cancer Progression: Environmental exposure to NP may increase the risk of certain cancers.

• Metabolic Disorders: NP exposure has been associated with metabolic diseases, including diabetes and obesity.

🔗 Research Sources: https://setac.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/etc.5633?af=R | https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0890623804001431 | https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0013935120301559 | https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371%2Fjournal.pone.0180218 

The Safe Alternative: The Mad Nuts

Our boxers are made from premium organic cotton, designed to be comfortable, breathable, and safe for your body. We believe in full transparency, and that's why every pair of our underwear is certified organic and toxin-free.

Unlike synthetic fabrics, organic cotton is free from toxic chemicals, plastic-based fibers, and harmful dyes. Certified GOTS & OEKO-TEX fabrics undergo rigorous testing to ensure they are:

✅ Free from Toxins: No phthalates, PFAS, formaldehyde, BPA or any other toxic chemicals.

✅ Breathable & Hypoallergenic: Prevents irritation, itching, and excessive moisture buildup.

✅ Eco-Friendly: Sustainable and biodegradable, unlike plastic-based fabrics.

Make the switch today—your body will thank you.