Question from Stacey
Hi Debra,
Is patent leather the same as regular leather in terms of toxicity? I saw a pair of black patent leather shoes and regular leather shoes that I liked and wondered if the leather is the same in terms of treatment/toxicity. Does it matter which I wear?
Thank you!
Debra’s Answer
First, “patent leather” is a type of later that is coated with a very glossy, shiny finish.
The original patent leather created in the 1800s used a linseed-oil based lacquer coating that both protected the leather and made it more durable. But today, the shiny coating is usually plastic and may not even be real leather below.
It seems though, that most patent leather is leather, but check to be sure. I couldn’t find any information on what type of plastic is used for the finish or may be used for artificial leather.
I would say that patent leather may be more toxic, but what really matters is what was used to process the leather.
