Allergies

Over the past 30 years of working in clothing, I have found myself several times talking to customers about fabric allergies. After doing some research and speaking with my dear friend who is a dermatologist, I would like to pass on to you the information I found out.
Let me start by saying that, if serious conditions occur, the right thing to do is to consult a specialist who will perform the necessary tests.
Clothes, whether they are heavy or light, cover our skin throughout the day – which is why it is important to wear the ones that are most suitable to our body.
Let’s debunk the common myth that synthetic fibers cause allergies whereas natural fibers do not. It is absolutely false.
Before being used, all fabrics undergo some cleaning, softening and dying treatments. Fabric processing is done by using chemical additives that are absorbed in different proportions by both natural and synthetic fibers.
However, real allergic reactions to fibers are generally very rare. More commonly, fibers can cause irritation and contact dermatitis. Watch for red, swollen and itchy skin. The affected areas are normally the crooks of the body: the armpits, groin area, inner thighs or backs of the knees. Most often, they occur in the summer and affect heavier people, as sweat leads allergenic substances to leach out of the fabric.
To avoid further skin damage, do not scratch. Use soothing creams and freshen up the affected area with water and baking soda or water and oatmeal to relieve itching.
Sometimes skin allergies and dermatitis are not caused by the fabric but by the detergent used during the wash, in particular whitening, softening and bleaching solutions that penetrate into the fibers and leave residues in the fabric, especially if hand rinsed. Therefore, it is recommended to opt always for a long machine rinse cycle.
Another useful tip for sensitive skin sufferers is to substitute regular detergents with castile soap or any delicate detergents.
Particular attention must be paid to your choice of underwear as it is constantly in contact with the skin. Always opt for cotton, linen, or silk. Avoid:
-         wool underwear because it is irritating
-         colorful underwear because of the dyes used
-         synthetic underwear because it does not absorb humidity

Finally pay attention to any clothes accessories: metal buttons, zips, hooks, buckles and labels, as they are made of allergenic materials. The most common allergy (that affects 10% of the entire population) is an allergy to nickel, which is contained in metals. It is therefore important to avoid it. Usually these accessories are not in direct contact with the skin but individuals who suffer from heavy perspiration should take into consideration that sweat leads to the release of nickel, which is then absorbed by the clothes and consequently by the skin.