Health Benefits of Wearing Organic Cotton Fabric

To best understand the benefits of having organic cotton on your skin, lets learn a few things about the skin.

The epidermis (our skin and its 5 distinct layers) offers protection for the inside of our bodies by serving 5 major roles:

To protect you against Pathogens
To Prevent Water Loss
To regulate body temperature
To excrete waste products
To act as a storage organ for lipids

This last function is the most important in terms of understanding what the benefits of organic cotton (or other organically grown natural fibers like linen or canvas) can offer to our health.

Lipids are molecules mostly composed of hydrogen, oxygen and carbon. These lipids form the basic constituents to the outermost barrier of the human body, and we are in need of them in constant supply. Our Epidermal layer is selectively permeable for lipid-soluble substances so that our body can readily absorb and transfer these important lipid molecules into our body in order to maintain its vital and various functions.

The problem is that now due to a worldwide plastic manufacturing industry, there are synthetic molecules with lipid like structures that can be absorbed into the body through the skin. These lipid-soluble synthetic molecules can't support normal cellular function so they end up being transported to other glands of the endocrine system, disrupting hormone signaling. This can lead to various detrimental effects to the body including: infertility, obesity, diabetes, immune system disfunction and cardiovascular issues.

By choosing to wear natural materials like organically grown cotton you are:

Providing a safe environment for your skin to perform all of its natural functions without inadvertently absorbing synthetic lipid-like molecules.

Avoiding absorbing toxic residues from pesticides used in conventional cotton agriculture.

Avoiding absorbing Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals leeching into your body from petroleum based fabrics like Polyester, Nylon, Acrylic, Polypropylene, Spandex, Fleece, Rayon, Acetate.

The truth is that many of the dangerous chemicals that enter us through our skin are at low doses and will only show the detrimental effect on our body gradually over time. And in a way it makes it even more dangerous as the effects are harder to study. However, studies have made it clear that microplastics are detrimental to our health, can build up in our endocrine system, and in the case of Phthalates can even bind to estrogen hormone receptors and create hormonal imbalances and reproductive health complications.

If you are interested learning about Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals or want to learn how you have reduce the exposure to these chemicals in your life, please read our Guide to Reduce Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals and Microplastics in your Life and Home.

The Health Benefits of Wearing Organic Cotton

Hello, I just wanted to say thank you for your interest in this matter. We all know the importance of what we put in our body and its direct relation to our health. Whats less scientifically studied is what we put on our body. Im grateful for a lot of new research papers and scientific interest in showing the negative impacts that microplastics and Phthalates have on human health (links). Even though the science on the benefits of organic cotton on human health is not yet extensively documented, it is, however strongly scientifically founded.

This page contains my earnest effort to bring as much clarity to this not so well understood area in human well being: what our clothing, and what effects the materials we keep in close proximity to us, are doing to our health. Because our skin is a dynamic and active organ that excretes as well as absorbs substances, it is not difficult to understand why we ought to carefully choose what those materials are.

The age old saying "You are what you eat." is self evident and of course true, however the truth goes deeper when we begin to study how more than just what can enter the mouth, can enter the body. May this page help you understand we are not only what we eat, but what we breathe and also what materials we allow our skin to be constantly exposed to.

- Roy,

Sacred Geometrix Founder

Let's learn about the human body's largest organ:

The Skin: The Active and Dynamic Interface Between Your Body and the Environment.

The skin's primary purposes are:

To protect you against Pathogens from the outside world via specialized immune cells called Langerhans Cells that fight off viruses, bacteria and fungi.

To Prevent Water Loss via the waterproofing of multiple distinct layers called the Stratum granulosum, Stratum lucidum, and the stratum corneum.

To regulate body temperature via two distinct sweat glands, the Eccrine glands: found all over the body and the Apocrine glands: found in specific areas (e.g. armpits, for secreting thicker sweat in larger amounts.)

To excrete waste products (like salts, urea and ammonia) and small amounts of toxins, although the kidneys are the main organs that filter out bodily waste.

To act as a storage organ for lipids, water, and certain fat-soluble vitamins. It also plays a role in absorbing small amounts of substances like certain medications (through transdermal patches) and chemicals from the environment.

This last little known purpose for our skin: To act as a storage organ for lipids is where our story of the importance of what we put onto our body begins.

What are Lipids? And why our skin is selectively permeable.

Lipids are a diverse group of organic molecules, composed mainly of carbon, hydrogen and oxygen. They serve as a major structural and functional component in living organisms strengthening the stratum corneum, the outermost layer of the epidermis. The stratum corneum is made up of keratinocytes (dead skin cells) that are tightly packed and surrounded by a lipid-rich layer, which helps to form a protective barrier that prohibit water loss and allow the absorption of other lipids. The stratum corneum contains a mixture of lipids, primarily ceramides, cholesterol, and fatty acids.

Because healthy skin is a lipid rich environment, and its vitality and integrity depends on these lipids, our skin allows for other lipids to be easily absorbed in order to strengthen its barriers.

Common types of lipids include:

Fats and oils (triglycerides)
Phospholipids (crucial for cell membrane integrity)
Steroids (including vital hormones like cholesterol, estrogen, and testosterone)
Waxes (used by organisms for protective coatings)
Fat-soluble vitamins (like vitamins A, D, E, and K)

Lipids are generally fat-soluble, and the skin's outer layers also have a lipid-rich composition, making them more permeable to other lipophilic (fat-soluble) substances.

While our skin’s barriers are designed to protect the body from harmful substances, it is also selectively permeable to lipid like structures and fat-soluble compounds.

In conclusion, although our skin is our forefront barrier to keep out harmful substances and pathogens, it is also an open membrane for molecules with lipid like structures to enter.

Natural Lipid-Soluble Molecules Absorbable via the Epidermis:

Vitamins:

Vitamin A (retinol,retinoic acid)

Vitamin D: Synthesized in the skin from sunlight exposure.

Vitamin E (tocopherol)

Hormones:

Estrogen: This is important because research is now showing that the "plasticizers" found in PVC, known as Phthalates are able to bind into estrogen receptors and are causing serious health risks for men and women (cite).

Testosterone

Cholesterol

Essential Oils:

Menthol, camphor and eucalyptol can be absorbed directly through the skin.

Fatty Acids:

Omega-3 and other lipid based molecules can absorb directly through the skin.

As you can see, a very large and diverse variety of compounds, can enter our bodies directly through our skin. Unfortunately the list of compounds continues in a more dangerous direction when we look into the next category:

Unnatural Toxins Absorbable via the Epidermis

There are so many known chemicals and toxins that can enter the human body through the skin, we won't name them all. However, lets go over the chemicals used today in the agriculture of conventional cotton and chemicals used in the manufacturing of Petroleum based textiles like polyester.

The following list of chemicals, pesticides, and phthalates you can avoid by simply choosing to wear organically grown natural fabrics.

Chemicals present in Conventional Cotton Agriculture:

Insecticides

Organophosphates:

Examples: Chlorpyrifos, Dimethoate, Malathion
Mode of Action: Organophosphates inhibit the enzyme acetylcholinesterase, which is crucial for nerve signal transmission in insects (and humans). This leads to paralysis and death in pests. However, they are toxic to humans and other non-target organisms as well.
Health Risks: Organophosphates are neurotoxic, and prolonged exposure can lead to cognitive problems, developmental issues, and respiratory difficulties. They are also harmful to beneficial insects like bees, which play a crucial role in pollination.

Pyrethroids:

Examples: Permethrin, Cypermethrin, Lambda-cyhalothrin
Mode of Action: Pyrethroids disrupt the normal function of nerve cells by interfering with the flow of sodium ions, causing paralysis in insects. They are synthetic versions of pyrethrins, which are natural insecticides derived from chrysanthemum flowers.
Health Risks: While pyrethroids are less toxic to humans than organophosphates, they can still cause skin irritation, headaches, and nausea. They are toxic to aquatic life and can affect the nervous system of non-target organisms.

Neonicotinoids:

Examples: Imidacloprid, Thiamethoxam, Acetamiprid
Mode of Action: Neonicotinoids mimic the action of nicotine, binding to acetylcholine receptors in insects' nervous systems, causing paralysis and death. They are systemic, meaning they are absorbed by the plant and spread throughout its tissues, protecting the entire plant.
Health Risks: Neonicotinoids are known to be toxic to bees and other pollinators, contributing to the phenomenon known as colony collapse disorder. While they are less toxic to humans, they may still cause neurological effects with chronic exposure. They can also persist in the environment, affecting non-target species.

Herbicides

Glyphosate:

Brand Names: Roundup, Ranger Pro, Groundwork
Mode of Action: Glyphosate is a non-selective herbicide, meaning it kills almost all plants by inhibiting the shikimic acid pathway, a key metabolic process in plants. This leads to plant death, especially in weeds.
Health Risks: Glyphosate has been linked to cancer (specifically non-Hodgkin lymphoma) in humans by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), although its exact carcinogenicity remains controversial. Prolonged exposure can also lead to skin and eye irritation, and it is toxic to aquatic life. Its widespread use has led to concerns about the development of glyphosate-resistant weeds, making it less effective over time.

Dicamba:

Brand Names: Clarity, Banvel
Mode of Action: Dicamba is a selective herbicide that mimics the action of plant hormones (auxins), disrupting growth and causing death in broadleaf weeds. It is typically used to control weeds in fields growing genetically modified crops (like glyphosate-resistant cotton).
Health Risks: Dicamba can cause skin and eye irritation and has been linked to reproductive and developmental toxicity in laboratory animals. There are also concerns about dicamba drift, where the herbicide evaporates and spreads to neighboring crops, damaging them.

2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D):

Brand Names: Weedone, Vigilant
Mode of Action: 2,4-D is an auxin-type herbicide that interferes with plant growth by disrupting the balance of plant hormones, leading to uncontrolled growth and eventually plant death.
Health Risks: Exposure to 2,4-D can cause skin and eye irritation, and long-term exposure has been associated with cancer (particularly soft tissue sarcoma). It is also toxic to aquatic life and can affect the reproductive systems of wildlife.

Fungicides

Chlorothalonil:

Brand Names: Bravo, Daconil
Mode of Action: Chlorothalonil is a broad-spectrum fungicide that inhibits fungal spore germination and growth by interfering with their metabolism.
Health Risks: Chlorothalonil is considered toxic to aquatic life, and prolonged exposure in humans can cause skin irritation, respiratory issues, and potential carcinogenic effects (it is classified as a possible human carcinogen by the U.S. EPA).

Azoxystrobin:

Brand Names: Quadris, Amistar
Mode of Action: Azoxystrobin is a systemic fungicide that works by inhibiting mitochondrial respiration in fungi, preventing their growth and reproduction.
Health Risks: Azoxystrobin is considered low in toxicity to humans but may cause skin and eye irritation. There are concerns about its persistence in the environment and potential impacts on non-target organisms.

Mancozeb:

Brand Names: Dithane, Manzate
Mode of Action: Mancozeb is a contact fungicide, meaning it kills fungi on contact by disrupting their cellular metabolism.
Health Risks: Prolonged exposure to mancozeb can lead to respiratory issues, skin irritation, and potential developmental or reproductive toxicity. It is considered harmful to aquatic life.

Chemicals found in The Manufacturing Process of Polyester & Petroleum Based Textiles

Phthalates

Structure: Phthalates are a group of chemicals used as plasticizers in the manufacturing of flexible plastics. They are esters of phthalic acid and are lipophilic (fat soluble)
Mechanism of Entry: Phthalates can penetrate the skin and are often found in personal care products like lotions, shampoos, and perfumes, as well as in some plastic products. Once absorbed, they can act as endocrine disruptors, potentially interfering with hormonal systems, and are linked to developmental and reproductive health issues.

Where Found:

Plastic products: Phthalates are used to soften and increase the flexibility of plastics. Common sources include polyvinyl chloride (PVC) products, such as flooring, wallpaper, shower curtains, and plastic toys.
Personal care products: Phthalates are often used as solvents or fixatives in cosmetics, fragrances, lotions, shampoos, deodorants, and nail polishes.
Medical devices: Some medical products, such as IV tubing, blood bags, and catheters, may contain phthalates.
Food packaging: Phthalates can leach from food packaging materials, including plastic wraps and containers, into the food itself.
Consumer goods: Phthalates can also be found in household goods like air fresheners, perfumes, and some household cleaners.

Dioxins

Structure: Dioxins are a family of chemically related compounds that are highly toxic. Many dioxins, such as TCDD (2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin), are fat-soluble and can mimic lipid structures.
Mechanism of Entry: Dioxins can be absorbed through the skin or via inhalation, and once inside the body, they accumulate in fat tissues. Dioxins are potent carcinogens and endocrine disruptors, linked to various forms of cancer and reproductive harm.

Where Found:

Industrial waste: Dioxins are byproducts of certain industrial processes, particularly those involving chlorine, such as the manufacturing of herbicides (e.g., Agent Orange), bleaching paper, and chemical production.
Incineration: Dioxins are released during the incineration of household waste, municipal waste, and medical waste. They can also be emitted by forest fires or volcanic eruptions.
Food sources: Dioxins can accumulate in the fat of animals, particularly in fatty fish, meat, and dairy products, as they are lipophilic and bioaccumulate in the food chain.
Contaminated soil: Areas with a history of industrial contamination or waste disposal may have dioxins present in the soil.

Bisphenol A (BPA)

Structure: Bisphenol A (BPA) is an industrial chemical often used in plastics and resins. It has a chemical structure that is lipophilic, allowing it to easily interact with fat cells in the body.
Mechanism of Entry: BPA can leach into food and drink from plastic containers, and it can also be absorbed through the skin from products like receipts (which often contain BPA). It is an endocrine disruptor that can interfere with hormonal regulation, potentially leading to reproductive and developmental issues.

Where Found:

Plastic containers: BPA is commonly used in the production of polycarbonate plastics, which are found in products like water bottles, food storage containers, and baby bottles.
Food and beverage cans: Many canned goods are lined with epoxy resins that contain BPA to prevent corrosion. BPA can leach into food or beverages from the lining.
Thermal paper: BPA is used in thermal paper products, such as receipts, tickets, and labels, and people can be exposed to BPA by handling these items.
Dental sealants: Some dental products, such as certain fillings and sealants, may contain BPA.

Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals (EDCs)

Structure: Many endocrine-disrupting chemicals, such as bisphenols, phthalates, and certain pesticides, have chemical structures that allow them to mimic lipids or interact with lipid membranes.
Mechanism of Entry: EDCs can pass through the skin, enter the bloodstream, and bind to hormone receptors in the body. This can disrupt normal hormone signaling and cause a wide range of health issues, including infertility, developmental delays, and cancer.

Where Found: Many endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) are widely used in everyday products:

Phthalates: Found in plastics, personal care products, and household items (as mentioned above).
BPA: Found in plastics, food containers, and receipts (as mentioned above).
Pesticides: Used in agricultural products and household insecticides (as mentioned above).
Fire retardants: Flame retardants like PBDEs (polybrominated diphenyl ethers) are used in furniture, mattresses, and electronics.
Cosmetics: Many cosmetics, shampoos, and lotions contain EDCs that can disrupt the endocrine system.

Conclusion: The Health Benefits of Organic Cotton

The epidermis and its lipid-rich environment can be protected by simply choosing to wear organic fabrics. Materials that regularly come in contact with your skin that don't leech chemicals like phthalates and pesticide residues into its cells will increase your chance of living a longer, healthier life.

By choosing materials that are organically grown you will:

Provide a safe environment for your skin to perform all of its natural processes.

Avoid inadvertently absorbing toxic residues from pesticides used in conventional cotton agriculture.

Protect yourself from Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals leeching into your body from petroleum based fabrics.

The truth is that many of the dangerous chemicals that can enter us through our skin are at low doses and effect us gradually over time. And that in its own way makes it even more of a difficult situation to address. Many of the tests on endocrine disrupting chemicals are done on rats at very high doses, but long term low doses in humans is still not yet well documented. As well, it is difficult to have accurate scientific data on the long term effects, because many of these chemicals were invented too recently and have not been actively studied long enough for their effects to be able to be fully understood at low doses, over long term exposure timeframes. In other words, we can see clearly the negative impacts that these chemicals have on our health, but we don't yet know what it looks like at our current exposure rates, until more time has passed.

However, I hope this page has helped you understand a few key points:

The basic mechanism of how these lipid mimicking substances can and will enter the body, due to the natural selective permeability of the skin.
These chemicals that can enter the body via the skin are found in mass marketed clothing fabrics being produced all over the world
Conventionally grown cotton contains pesticide residues that can leech into the skin
Petroleum based fabrics like soft and flexible polyester contain Phthalates
The growing science on microplastics that leech Phthalates is definitively health destroying
Endocrine disrupting chemicals can be hormonally destructive, neurologically toxic and even cancerous.

And its for precisely those reasons that organically grown textiles like organic cotton fabric are undeniably the best choice for a material worthy of touching your skin.

For more ways to increase your well being, check out our Guide to Reduce Microplastics: How to free your home and body from forever chemicals and reclaim your natural health.