{
  "id": 6267975,
  "title": "‘Forever chemicals’ in sportswear: This is what happens when they touch your skin",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/08/forever-chemicals-in-sportswear-this-is-what-happens-when-they-touch",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-09-08T10:31:22.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "The Indian Express - Lifestyle",
    "slug": "the-indian-express-lifestyle",
    "url": "https://indianexpress.com/article/lifestyle/health/lululemon-pfas-forever-chemicals-activewear-probe-risks-experts-10866875/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Recent investigations have focused on the potential presence of \"forever chemicals\" or PFAS in activewear from Lululemon, a leading athletic apparel brand. Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton is examining the company's products, testing protocols, and supply-chain practices to assess compliance with safety standards. Lululemon has denied using PFAS in their products, stating they phased them out in fiscal 2023. PFAS are synthetic chemicals used in fabrics for water, stain, and sweat resistance, and have also been found in nonstick cookware and food packaging. Dr Amit Saraf, an internal medicine expert, explained that PFAS are called \"forever chemicals\" due to their persistence in the environment and body. While prolonged exposure to certain PFAS can affect the immune system, metabolism, and hormonal functions, the health impact depends on factors like specific PFAS, exposure amount, and duration. Dr Saraf clarified that wearing PFAS-containing activewear does not necessarily mean these chemicals will enter the body, as skin contact does not guarantee harmful absorption. Factors such as fabric type, chemical used, garment treatment, and frequency of wear influence exposure. Activewear is often worn close to the skin during sweating, so greater transparency about chemicals used is encouraged. Dr Aarti Ullal, a physician and diabetologist, advised consumers to look for brands that disclose materials and chemical treatments, and prefer products with PFAS-free or chemical-safety certifications. She emphasized the importance of transparency from manufacturers, independent testing, and stronger regulation to help consumers make informed choices without unnecessary fear.",
  "summary": null,
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 2,
    "also_reported_by": [
      {
        "outlet": "The Indian Express",
        "title": "‘Forever chemicals’ in sportswear: This is what happens when they touch your skin",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/08/forever-chemicals-in-sportswear-this-is-what-happens-when-they-touch-6273729",
        "published": "2026-09-08T10:31:22.000Z"
      }
    ]
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}