Why natural dyes?

Why should you choose natural dyeing versus synthetic or conventional dyeing processes? A simple answer is that natural dyes are better than synthetic, but let’s go a little more in depth to the reasons why.

Natural dyes are simply better because unlike their counterpart, they do not contain any chemicals or ingredients that are harmful and toxic to not only the environment but also to your health. Veggie dyes have been used for centuries and many are used as medicinal plants such as indigo and molle. Synthetic dyes are very hazardous and some countries have even banned the use of synthetic dyes such as the the European Union. The vegetable dyes represent a sustainable source with respect to their synthetic counterparts, they are a renewable resource. Not the synthetic dyes, they come from oil.

Why natural dyes

Synthetic dyes are hazardous to not only consumers but also very dangerous for workers in the cotton and textile industries.

Are Dyed Clothes Safe to Wear?

The dye on a finished garment is chemically stable – that’s what makes a dye color fast. However, research is showing the effect synthetic and conventional dyeing is having through skin absorption. Studies are showing that young babies and children do actually have increased levels of toxins and chemicals in their systems and skin.

Toxic chemicals are often absorbed into the skin

Because clothing comes into prolonged contact with one’s skin, toxic chemicals are often absorbed into the skin. Also some are more hypersensitive to contact with these chemical used in synthetic dyes.

Symptoms for chemical sensitivity

Symptoms for chemical sensitivity range from skin rashes, headaches, trouble concentrating, nausea, fatigue, dizziness, and difficulty breathing.

Why Are Synthetic Dyes So Harmful?

Many synthetic dyes are known to be carcinogenic and rightly thus, the European Union in particular has been pro-active in banning dangerous dyes and dyes formulated from toxic chemicals.

Natural Dyes also helps the planet

It is safe to say, choose natural dyes over synthetic dyes and conventional dyeing processes. Go natural! Go organic! Save Mother Earth and your skin!

Check out our previous article!