Is your gymwear giving you a rash? It's more common than you think

Tight synthetics, sweat and chemicals in gymwear can trigger textile dermatitis, a skin allergy more common than most people realise, warn dermatologists

You love your crisp office shirts and stretchy gym wear, but have you ever wondered why that itch or rash shows up soon after wearing them? It is easy to blame the heat or your “sensitive skin,” but dermatologists say the real culprit may be your clothes themselves.

 

A common condition, textile dermatitis, is the cause of this rash. Here's everything you should know about it:

 

What is textile dermatitis, and how is it different from other skin allergies?

 

Textile dermatitis is a form of contact dermatitis, but unlike rashes caused by jewellery, soaps, or cosmetics, this one is linked to fabrics or the chemicals used to treat them.

 

Dr Ajit Kumar, Consultant Dermatologist at Ramakrishna CARE Hospitals, Raipur, explains: “It usually shows up as redness, itching, bumps, or scaly patches on areas where clothing rubs the most, like the neck, armpits, waistline, or behind the knees. A tell-tale sign is that the rash worsens with heat or sweat and clears up when you stop wearing those particular clothes.”

 

Dr Nimesh D Mehta, Dermatologist at Lilavati Hospital, Mumbai, adds: “The condition typically spares body parts not covered by clothes. Patients may mistake it for heat rash or fungal infection, but the rash often returns with the same clothes. In chronic cases, it can even cause thickening of the skin.”   

How do synthetic fabrics like polyester and nylon irritate skin?

 

The irritation often stems not just from the fabric itself but the chemicals used during manufacturing. Polyester, nylon, and spandex trap heat and moisture, weakening the skin barrier. Tight-fitting garments like leggings or sports bras also increase friction.

 

Chemical treatments — including wrinkle-resistant resins, disperse or azo dyes (especially red, blue, and black), waterproofing agents, and flame retardants — can trigger allergic reactions. Some residues may linger for years and still affect sensitive skin.

 

Who is more prone to developing textile dermatitis?

 

• Genetics and skin conditions: Those with eczema, atopic dermatitis, or psoriasis are more susceptible due to weaker skin barriers.
• Climate: In hot, humid areas like India, sweat can leach dyes and chemicals from fabrics onto the skin.
• Friction zones: Areas like the waist, inner thighs, and armpits are more affected.
• Demographics: Women and children are especially vulnerable due to tight-fitting synthetics and thinner skin, respectively.

 

What should you look for when buying safer clothes?

 

• Choose light-coloured, breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, or bamboo blends.
• Opt for loose fits instead of tight synthetics to reduce friction.
• Avoid labels like “wrinkle-free”, “flame-resistant”, or “waterproof”, which signal chemical treatments.
• Look for certification marks such as OEKO-TEX® Standard 100.
• Stick to plain cotton undergarments and nightwear for prolonged contact comfort.

 

Should you always wash new clothes before wearing them?

 

Yes. Doctors advise washing all new clothes—especially synthetics—two to three times to remove residual dyes and preservatives. Use fragrance-free, mild detergents and rinse thoroughly. Wash new garments separately to prevent colour bleed.

 

What skincare can help prevent or reduce symptoms?

 

• Moisturise daily with fragrance-free creams rich in ceramides or petroleum jelly.
• Use syndet cleansers instead of harsh soaps.
• Apply a barrier cream on high-friction zones before wearing tight clothes.
• For flare-ups, dermatologists may prescribe low-potency corticosteroids or non-steroidal creams like tacrolimus.

 

Are there textile safety rules for India?

 

• Globally, Europe’s REACH laws and the OEKO-TEX label offer fabric safety assurances.
• In the US, children’s clothing chemicals are regulated.
• In India, BIS does restrict some dyes and formaldehyde levels, but enforcement is weak and imported clothing often slips through the cracks.

 

What innovations could make clothing safer?

 

• Bio-based resins and enzyme treatments to replace harsh chemicals
• Low-impact or natural dyeing methods
• Breathable, moisture-wicking synthetics
• Nanotechnology-based coatings with fewer irritants
• Transparent chemical labelling to help informed shopping

 

For those frequently wearing office attire, polyester formals, or gym-ready athleisure, textile dermatitis is a common issue. But the solution isn’t to eliminate synthetic fabrics entirely. With smarter clothing choices, a few washes before first use, and consistent skincare, you can maintain a stylish wardrobe without compromising your skin’s health.

     

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This content is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.