If you’ve built a workout wardrobe around Lululemon, you may have seen the headlines this year: The brand is now facing a formal investigation into alleged PFAS in its activewear, the so-called “forever chemicals” linked to a range of health concerns. We wanted to break down what’s actually happening, what it might mean for your health, and why we’re keeping a close eye on this story.
What’s Going On
The Texas Attorney General’s office has opened a formal investigation into Lululemon, examining alleged PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) in its leggings, sports bras, and other activewear. These synthetic chemicals are commonly used to make fabric water-, sweat-, and stain-resistant — exactly the performance features that made brands like Lululemon a wellness staple in the first place. PFAS exposure has already become a major focus of environmental litigation nationwide, as more consumer and industrial products are tested and scrutinized.
Lululemon has pushed back on the claims, stating it phased out PFAS use back in 2023 and that the chemicals were only ever used in a small number of water-repellent products. No wrongdoing has been legally established at this point, and the investigation is ongoing.
This isn’t the first time questions have been raised, either. Independent testing going back several years — including lab work commissioned by outlets like Mamavation and the Environmental Working Group — has found detectable fluorine levels in activewear from Lululemon and other major brands, suggesting the alleged presence of PFAS-based treatments even after companies pledged to move away from them.
Why This Matters for Women
PFAS have been linked to a number of serious health concerns, including hormonal disruption, immune system effects, and increased risk of certain cancers. What makes activewear a particular point of concern is how we wear it: These are garments worn tightly against the skin, often during intense exercise, when sweat and increased blood flow can enhance chemical absorption through the skin. For women especially, who make up a huge share of the activewear market, that raises real questions about long-term, cumulative exposure.
It’s also worth noting this isn’t just a “one brand” problem. Testing across the industry has repeatedly found PFAS in products from multiple retailers, indicating a broader gap between the “clean,” “conscious,” and “responsible” marketing labels many activewear brands use and what’s actually going into the fabric.
Where We Stand
Right now, there’s no definitive proof of harm tied directly to any specific Lululemon product, and the investigation is still unfolding. We’re not interested in fueling panic, but we are interested in keeping you informed about important topics that could impact your health.
We are actively investigating this issue and will continue following the Texas AG’s findings, Lululemon’s response, and any new independent testing that comes out regarding the potential connection between PFAS in popular athleisure brands such as Lululemon. In the meantime, if you’re concerned, look for activewear brands that are transparent about being PFAS-free, wash new activewear before first wear, and consider limiting long stretches of wear time in non-breathable, heavily treated fabrics.
If you have questions or think you may have been affected by PFAS exposure, contact us — we’re here to help.
You can read the original coverage that prompted this post from Women’s Health Magazine.
