In our search for eco-friendly sustainable products for use in fashion and life, we have understood more about what is good and safe to use. Rayon appears in a lot of fashion styles. Some of the cutest outfits, with excellent color, trendy and flowing, some of those oversized batwing sleeves, look and feel silky until we go to the supplier for details on materials. Rayon and polyester not suitable for the environment. In later discussions, we will talk more about polyester, as it is the go-too fabric we run into. For now, let's talk Rayon.
Rayo, even though it appears to be eco and plant cellulose fiber, it is treated so much it is toxic. Some of the chemicals used in the making of rayon-
"Carbon Disulfide: This is the worst chemical used in the rayon-making process. This substance “can cause dizziness, poor sleep, headache, anxiety, anorexia, weight loss, and vision changes. It can harm the eyes, kidneys, blood, heart, liver, nerves, and skin.” It can also lead to coronary heart disease, psychiatric symptoms like hallucinations and paranoia, retinal angiopathy, psychophysiological effects, central nervous system (CNS) effects, infertility, menstrual disorders, and more.
Sodium Hydroxide: According to the CDC, “Sodium hydroxide is very corrosive. It can cause irritation to the eyes, skin, and mucous membrane; an allergic reaction; eye and skin burns; and temporary loss of hair.”
Sulfuric Acid: Sulfuric acid is a “corrosive substance, destructive to the skin, eyes, teeth, and lungs. Severe exposure can result in death.” Additionally, “Evidence suggests that occupational exposure to sulphuric acid mists in combination with other acid mists can be carcinogenic.”
In his 2016 book, Fake Silk: The Lethal History of Viscose Rayon, Paul David Blanc wrote about how you can’t even buy rayon that’s made in the U.S. anymore because the manufacturing process is so toxic that it can’t pass the EPA’s regulations." These chemicals affect the workers and the air and water surrounding these factories. Some of our favorite big chain stores use these products.
Check out this article: Is Rayon Toxic
These are difficult choices for our small eco-boutique www.ven-vivi.com, but we are working actively to educate ourselves to bring better products to market for just some of these reasons outlined here. What do you think? When it comes to fashion vs function or health and safety...Does it matter in fashion?