Benefits of organic fabrics and the Second Skin Organic

Although most of us are aware, few of us really stop to think about how consumer goods are treated before they reach us. At Amoralia, we like to keep you informed, so here is a little bit of information about why organic cotton is one of our favourites:

Kind to skin

One of the biggest ticks, as far as we are concerned, is the effect organic cotton has on our skin. Chemicals in dyes (as well as treatments that include formaldehyde) are often used during the creation process of certain fabrics which can cause contact dermatitis. This presents itself as, more often than not, an itchy, scaly rash. During pregnancy and nursing, your skin is extra sensitive due to all the extra hormones, which often means that you can feel itchy and uncomfortable in your normal clothing. Dry, chapped nipples are something we hear quite a lot about – wearing organic cotton lingerie can help with these symptoms. If you are really suffering, studies suggest that wearing white cotton is the least irritating, so perhaps try this option.

Health

There is still little known about the long term implications that chemical pesticides, dyes and resins used in the creation of fabrics have on our health. In order to gain organic status, the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) requires growers to produce the cotton without the use of synthetic fertilizers, herbicides or pesticides. On top of this, the seeds used cannot have been genetically engineered. This way, you know that your cotton is 100% natural.

Fair Trade Standards

Perhaps this isn’t the most obvious point. After all, the cotton has to be natural but it doesn’t necessarily have to be fair. Luckily, at Amoralia, we agree with the GOTS. In their report from 2011, cotton workers must be provided with working conditions that are safe and hygenic, as well as the freedom to choose to be employed, working hours that are not excessive, freedom from discrimination (including equal renumeration despite age, gender or race), they are prohibited from using harsh or inhumane treatment and child workers, as well as given the freedom of association and the right to collective bargaining (GOTS, 2011).

For more information, head to the GOTS website here.

To check out our Second Skin Organic range (which is back in stock!) head to our website here.