Align High-Rise Leggings 25"
Lululemon's Align 25" leggings are made from Nulu™ fabric: 81% nylon, 19% Lycra elastane. Both are petroleum-derived synthetic plastics. Despite their premium price ($98–$128), there is no organic or natural fiber content in this specific product.
This is a rating of this specific product only — not the company. Other products from this brand may score differently.
⚠️ HIGH EXPOSURE RISK: These specific leggings are made from Lululemon's Nulu™ fabric — 81% nylon, 19% Lycra elastane. Both are petroleum-based synthetic plastics. They are worn skin-tight against your entire lower body during exercise, when pores are open and sweating maximizes skin absorption. Nylon sheds an estimated 700,000 microfibers per wash cycle.
Why We Rated It This Way
This specific product scores F on materials (100% synthetic), has limited supply chain transparency on chemical treatments, and is worn in maximum skin-contact conditions during exercise. Note: Lululemon makes other products that may score differently.
Chemical & Health Analysis
Each chemical of concern is broken down below — what it is, where it comes from in this product, what it does to the body, and who is most at risk.
Nylon 6,6 microfibers
The Nulu™ fabric itself — released during washing and wearing
Each wash releases an estimated 700,000 synthetic microfibers. Worn against sweating skin during exercise, nylon fibers and their chemical coatings are absorbed transdermally through open pores.
Disperse dyes (used to color nylon)
The dye process for nylon fabric
Nylon requires disperse dyes, several of which are classified as probable carcinogens by the EU. Disperse dye residues on fabric are released during wear and absorbed through skin.
PFAS (DWR water-repellent finish)
Applied to many Lululemon products as a performance finish
PFAS 'forever chemicals' accumulate in the body over time and are linked to kidney cancer, thyroid disease, immune suppression, and reduced vaccine efficacy in children.
All health claims are based on published, peer-reviewed research from the NIH, WHO, IARC, and peer-reviewed journals. This information is for educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice.
