In recent years, PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) have gone from obscure chemical compounds to headline-making health concerns. These so-called "forever chemicals" are turning up everywhere—from drinking water to waterproof mascara—but one of the most overlooked places they hide is in your closet.
If you care about what touches your skin, or how your choices impact the planet, it's time to pay attention to PFAS in clothing. Here's what you need to know before your next shopping trip.
What Are PFAS, Exactly?
PFAS (or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are a group of more than 9,000 synthetic chemicals developed in the 1940s. They are widely used because of their resistance to heat, water, oil, and stains. That nonstick pan? PFAS. That rain jacket that beads water off perfectly? Probably PFAS. These chemicals are popular in performance wear, outerwear, and stain-resistant treatments in fashion and home textiles.
But their superpowers come with serious downsides.
Why Are PFAS Called "Forever Chemicals"?
PFAS earned the nickname "forever chemicals" because they don’t break down in the environment. Once they’re made, they stick around—in soil, in water, in our bodies. Studies show that PFAS can accumulate over time, and even small amounts may be linked to a wide range of health issues, including:
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Hormonal disruption
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Fertility challenges
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Weakened immune response
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Certain cancers
Worse, these compounds can be absorbed through your skin, especially when they’re embedded in clothing that sits close to your body.
How PFAS End Up in Your Clothes
PFAS are commonly added to fabrics to make them water-resistant, oil-repellent, and stain-proof. You’ll find them in:
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Outdoor gear like raincoats and snow pants
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Workout clothes and athleisure
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Stain-resistant uniforms or workwear
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Fast fashion coated in "performance" finishes
The appeal is understandable—who doesn’t want leggings that stay dry during a workout? But those finishes come at a cost.
The Problem with Performance Coatings
Many brands don’t disclose PFAS use, and terms like "moisture-wicking," "quick-dry," or "stain-resistant" can be red flags. These buzzwords often indicate chemical treatments, but consumers are rarely told exactly what those treatments are.
Even more frustrating? PFAS aren't always listed on labels, and regulations on chemical disclosures in textiles remain weak or inconsistent globally.
How to Shop Smarter (and Safer)
Here’s how to reduce your exposure to PFAS when shopping for clothing:
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Watch out for performance claims. Words like "moisture-wicking," "water-repellent," and "stain-resistant" often hint at PFAS use.
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Look for third-party certifications. Labels like OEKO-TEX® Standard 100 and bluesign® help ensure textiles are free from harmful substances—including PFAS.
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Ask questions. Brands that don’t use PFAS will often proudly say so. Look for transparency in product pages or FAQ sections.
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Choose clean-performance alternatives. Some companies, like Losano, prioritize both function and safety by using non-toxic alternatives to traditional chemical coatings.
What Makes PFAS-Free Clothing Different?
Clothing without PFAS may not promise to repel red wine or defy downpours, but that doesn’t mean it lacks performance. Brands committed to PFAS-free design often rely on clever fabric engineering and thoughtful finishes that prioritize skin safety over chemical shortcuts.
At Losano, for example, our garments are made from OEKO-TEX® certified fabrics that avoid PFAS and other endocrine-disrupting chemicals entirely. That means every bra, tank, or pair of leggings you wear is not only better for your body but better for the planet too.
Why This Matters Now More Than Ever
As awareness grows, lawmakers and health experts are beginning to take action. Several U.S. states have already introduced bans or restrictions on PFAS in textiles. But change takes time, and until regulation catches up, it’s up to consumers to lead the charge.
Your closet is personal. What you put on your body every day should be as safe as it is stylish.
PFAS in clothing isn’t just a niche concern—it’s a real, growing health and environmental issue. The good news? You don’t have to sacrifice style or comfort to shop smarter. By seeking out brands that prioritize clean, conscious materials, you're not just dressing well; you're protecting your health and the planet.
Because true luxury isn't just about how something looks—it's about how it makes you feel.
Explore Losano's PFAS-Free Collection at Losano.com
