As weird as it may sound, people can be allergic to all kinds of things ranging from water to sunlight. Therefore, the fact that some of us are allergic to our undergarments shouldn’t come as a shock at all.
We call it underwear allergy because, of course, the allergic reaction usually happens around the waist area where the latex bands press against our skin. However, it’s not always the underwear per se that may cause allergies, but rather irritants found in clothing. In some cases, people might be allergic to textile fibers, such as polyester.
The question here is: will an underwear allergy prevent you from buying and wearing your favorite lingerie? Of course not. There are treatment and replacement options available in case of annoying rashes. But first, let’s find out what this type of allergy is all about.
What Causes An Underwear Allergy?
Among the several types of dermatitis, there’s one in particular called “textile dermatitis”. According to WebMD, it’s just another form of contact dermatitis. That means the skin has reacted to something that it touched or rubbed against.
Latex, spandex, as well as certain dyes present in your clothes, can result in an allergic reaction. Even the chemicals used to wash your clothes, like laundry detergents or fabric softeners can be the main causes of an itchy rash.
How Do I Know If I’m Allergic?
If you have sensitive skin, you’re prone to allergies since sensitive skin gets irritated easily. But regardless of your skin type, any painful and/or itchy rash on the groin, crotch or vulvar area could be an indication of a textile allergy. Although it can be tricky to pinpoint exactly what’s causing an allergy, there are a few questions you can ask yourself to make it easier:
- Have I switched laundry detergents/fabric softeners recently?
- Has my skin already reacted to any type of fabric or elastic in the past?
- Is the rash limited to the crotch, groin, and genitals, or does it appear in other places?
These questions may not be enough to determine an underwear allergy, but they’re essential information to help a professional reach a potential diagnosis.
What Do I Do About It?
Unfortunately, you won’t be able to fully diagnose any allergies on your own. Only an allergist can tell exactly what the problem is and rule out any differential diagnoses. Interestingly, some skin problems can be almost identical even though they’re not the same, so a supposed underwear allergy could be something entirely different.
Your best choice is to find a good allergy clinic, like the Aspire Allergy Clinic offices in Florida, Colorado, and Texas. Allergy specialists come highly recommended, seeing that they can provide the most advanced treatment options without countless expensive doctor visits.
Allergists might prescribe over-the-counter topical steroids, moisturizers, ointments, or a different treatment depending on each particular case. In case you’re diagnosed with an underwear allergy, doctors might even recommend that you switch to hypoallergenic, latex-free bras, boxers, and panties. They’re comfortable and look just like regular underwear.
Besides, you can always go commando if you find that it reduces allergy symptoms. Going without undies can reduce vaginal odors, prevent yeast infections, and prevents jock itch in men, also a pesky fungal infection.
If you want to skip going commando, try out a few pairs of high-quality sexy lingerie that will make your skin feel great. If you’re not allergic to the materials and the style makes you feel good, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t join in on the fun of sensual attire. Allergies don’t have to be a death sentence to your sex appeal.
It turns out that rashes (or dermatitis) coming from clothing are nothing serious or contagious, though they can be itchy and burdensome when there’s a flare-up. Get in touch with your allergist at any sign of a rash, and solve this issue in no time.
