NEW DELHI: A controversy in the US over chemicals in activewear has raised fresh concerns about what Indians are wearing to the gym, with experts warning that the issue goes beyond comfort to potential health risks.“Most activewear is made from plastic-based polymers that can release chemicals with potential endocrine effects, but in India, we lack the tools to measure this exposure. What we do see clearly is skin impact – synthetic, tight clothing in hot conditions often leads to fungal infections, irritation, and higher absorption in areas of natural occlusion like the groin and buttocks,” said Dr Kabir Sardana, a professor of dermatology. The trigger came from an April 13 announcement by Texas attorney general Ken Paxton, who said certain sportswear products are being investigated for chemicals that may interfere with the endocrine system. The development has sharpened focus on endocrine-disrupting chemicals, used in fabrics for stretch, sweat-wicking and odour resistance.In India, where synthetic gym wear has become the norm and regulation of textile chemicals remains patchy, the concern is particularly relevant. Chemicals like PFAS and phthalates – linked globally to hormone disruption – are widely used in textile processing. From global labels to home-grown players, most activewear sold in India relies on chemically treated fabrics.
