Unappealing findings: Underwear discovered to contain pollution
Article Title: Harmful Substances found in Popular Women's Panties
Women's underwear, often perceived as more than merely functional, is expected to be pleasant, with lace, shiny, or see-through fabrics enhancing the appeal of thongs and tangas. However, a recent investigation by the Swiss partner magazine of the Stiftung Warentest, K-Tipp, has shown that many women's panties contain health-critical bisphenols.
The investigation, which tested 16 women's panties, found that synthetic fiber models are particularly affected. Bisphenols are chemical compounds often found in synthetic fibers, with the most well-known being Bisphenol A (BPA). Over a long period, BPA can damage the immune system, impair fertility, and trigger hormone-related cancers like breast cancer. The European Chemicals Agency has therefore classified Bisphenol A as "of very high concern." Bisphenol S, a popular replacement for BPA in the industry, has shown similarly harmful effects.
The findings indicate that most of the models tested, consisting of synthetic fibers like polyester, polyamide, and elastane, contain harmful substances. As panties fit tightly, harmful substances can enter the body directly through the skin via heat, friction, and sweat. Large brands, including H&M, Hunkemöller, Triumph, and Victoria's Secret, failed the harmful substance test.
Among the most contaminated panties were Triumph's Crazy Stupid Love, Calvin Klein's Instinct Sensual Stretch Lace, Hunkemöller's Private Collection Nadia Tanga, and several models from Chantelle, Lacie, and Obsessive. H&M's patterned thong contained residues of questionable cleaning agents.
Only two models were free of harmful substances and were recommended: the Exquise Tanga by Etam and the Hanro Luxury Moments Pant for 50 Euro. All other panties tested were contaminated, with 12 of them severely so.
Back in autumn 2024, an Austrian consumer magazine, "Konsument 71," examined children's and adults' underwear for bisphenols. Their findings echoed the results from the K-Tipp investigation. The contaminated models were all "Seamless" models, without seams, very elastic, and made exclusively from synthetic material.
The health risks associated with bisphenols, including BPA and other bisphenol variants, in women's underwear primarily stem from their role as endocrine disruptors. It is essential for consumers, particularly women, to exercise caution when choosing underwear to minimize potential health risks.
- In light of the recent investigation, it's crucial for community policy to address the issue of harmful substances like bisphenols in women's health-and-wellness products, such as panties.
- Concerned about the findings, consumers might opt for undergarments that undergo vigorous vocational training in health-and-wellness, nutrition, and women's health, ensuring they are free from dangerous substances.
- Aware of the risks, fashion-and-beauty enthusiasts could consider prioritizing the purchase of underwear made from natural fibers to minimize exposure to harmful substances like bisphenols, promoting a safer lifestyle.
