Synthetic Clothing and Itching Complaints: An Analysis

Synthetic clothing plays a major role in our daily life, but it is essential to be aware of the effects these materials can have on our skin. In this blog, we delve deeper into the effects of synthetic fabrics on itchy skin conditions and explore how the skincare line of Iconic Elements can help alleviate these problems.

What exactly is synthetic clothing?

Synthetic clothing refers to garments made from fibers produced through complex chemical processes, as opposed to natural fibers that come directly from plants or animals. The production of synthetic fabrics such as polyester, nylon, acrylic, and elastane, requires the transformation of raw materials, such as petroleum, through chemical reactions into fibers that are then woven or knitted into fabrics. This technology allows for the optimization of properties such as durability, flexibility, and ease of maintenance, making synthetic clothing ideal for both everyday use and specific applications such as sportswear.

Polyester is known for its strong and wear-resistant properties, which give it a longer lifespan than many natural fabrics.

Nylon, another widely used synthetic material, offers excellent stretchability and resistance to mold and moths, making it ideal for active clothing.

Acrylic is often used as a cheaper and lighter alternative to wool, while elastane (also known as spandex or lycra) is valued for its extraordinary elasticity, which provides a comfortable fit and freedom of movement.

Which substances are responsible for the itching complaints?

Synthetic fibers such as polyamide (nylon), polyester, acrylic, and polyurethane (Lycra) are designed for their elasticity and water resistance, but can cause skin irritations in some people. Nylon, for example, absorbs sweat poorly, which can lead to itchy bumps caused by clogged sweat glands, known as miliaria. Although rare, there have been cases of allergic reactions to nylon reported. In addition, leather garments are more often associated with contact allergies, mainly due to additives such as N-isopropyl-4-phenylenediamine, thiurams, and thiourea derivatives.

1. N-isopropyl-N’-phenyl-p-phenylenediamine: This chemical substance is used as an antioxidant in the leather tanning process. It helps in protecting the leather from aging and discoloration that can occur due to exposure to air and light.
2. Thiurams: Thiurams are used as accelerators in the vulcanization process of rubber, which can give leather products durability and elasticity, especially in footwear. They can also serve as fungicide and pesticide in leather products to prevent mold growth and pests. However, like N-isopropyl-N’-phenylenediamine, thiurams can also provoke allergic reactions.
3. Thioureaderivatives: These are used as stabilizers in the dyes used for coloring leather. They help to maintain a consistent and long-lasting color and protect against fading.

Dyes in clothing are also known as common allergens. Especially heavier individuals who sweat excessively often experience skin reactions, mainly under the armpits. Azo dyes, which make up about 60 to 70% of all used colors, followed by anthraquinones, can be transferred from the garment to the skin by sweat. The fixation of the dye to the fibers determines the colorfastness and thus the risk of an allergic reaction. Disperse dyes, poorly soluble in water, are often used in synthetic and semi-synthetic clothing such as nylon stockings and can easily come off the fibers due to friction, which more often leads to contact allergy.

In addition, textile finishing resins, added to make clothing wrinkle-free, shrink-proof, and easy to iron, can cause allergies. The main culprit here is formaldehyde, used in cellulose fibers such as cotton and linen. Sensitization, or sensitivity to formaldehyde can also occur through other products such as cosmetics and shampoos, where it serves as a preservative. Wearing clothing treated with formaldehyde resin can cause mild textile allergies in people with a formaldehyde allergy.

It is recommended to wash new clothing items before use to remove as much formaldehyde as possible. Formaldehyde is also found in some fabric softeners, which can cause problems for people with a formaldehyde allergy. Cyclic urea resins, a more modern alternative to formaldehyde resins, release less formaldehyde and therefore less often lead to allergic reactions.

Synthetic fibers such as nylon, acrylic, and elastane tend to trap both moisture and heat on the skin. This combination of moisture and heat creates an ideal environment for bacterial growth, which can result in itching and skin irritation. Moreover, constant friction between synthetic materials and the skin can exacerbate these issues, especially during physical activities, leading to increased discomfort.

Given these possible skin reactions, it is advisable for people with sensitive skin to wear loose, breathable clothing made of natural materials to minimize irritation. Understanding the interaction between synthetic fabrics and the skin, and choosing the right materials, can help reduce the chance of irritation and discomfort, promoting a more comfortable and healthier skin sensation.

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What happens in the skin after contact with these substances?

When the skin comes into contact with irritating substances or overheats due to a lack of ventilation, this can trigger an inflammatory response. This response is characterized by the release of histamine and other chemical messengers, which in turn activate the itch nerves in the skin and thus cause a feeling of itchiness.

Furthermore, scratching the itchy skin can lead to damage, making the skin even more susceptible to irritation and potential infections. Generally, most skin reactions to textiles are irritation reactions, though genuine delayed type (type IV) contact allergic reactions occur less frequently. Factors that can increase the risk of contact allergies include excessive sweating, wearing tight or new clothing, already irritated skin, and an atopic predisposition, indicating a more sensitive skin.

Risk Factors for a Synthetic Clothing Allergy

1. Having other allergies: People who are already sensitive to other allergies have a higher risk of allergic reactions to synthetic materials such as polyester. This is because their immune system is already hyperreactive.
2. Having sensitive skin: Individuals with sensitive skin are more susceptible to irritation and allergic reactions, including those caused by contact with synthetic fibers.
3. Children are: Indeed, children may be at a higher risk of allergies to polyester and other synthetic fabrics because their immune system and skin barrier are still developing. Their skin is also thinner and more sensitive.
4. Working in warm or humid environments: Such conditions can increase the risk of skin irritation, especially if synthetic clothing does not properly absorb or evaporate sweat, which irritates the skin.
5. Having pre-existing skin conditions, such as eczema or psoriasis: People with these conditions often have a damaged skin barrier, making them more susceptible to allergies and irritations from contact with certain materials, including synthetic fabrics.
6. Obesity: Also sometimes referred to. An explanation that obese people have more lipids with an increased surface area and would therefore be more susceptible to polyester allergies is less direct. Although it is true that obesity can affect the skin by, for example, increasing the risk of fungal infections in skin folds, the link to polyester allergy is less specific. The main issue with obesity may be that tighter clothing causes more friction and heat buildup, which can exacerbate irritation.

What can you do?

Addressing itch complaints can effectively start by carefully choosing your wardrobe. Opt for garments made from natural fibers such as cotton, bamboo, or linen. These materials are not only gentler on your skin but also promote air circulation, which allows your skin to ‘breathe’ better and become less irritated quickly.

Before you put on new clothes, it is advisable to wash them first. This helps to remove any chemical substances that may have gotten on the clothing during the production process, and reduces the risk of skin irritations.

A consistent skincare routine is another crucial step in reducing itching. Regularly hydrating your skin with appropriate products can strengthen the skin barrier, making it more resistant to external factors that can cause itchiness. When choosing skincare products, pay attention to ingredients known for their soothing properties, such as aloe vera or oatmeal extracts.

It is also important not to wash the skin too often with hot water or harsh soaps, as these can dry out the skin and worsen the itching. Instead, opt for less hot water and shorter showers.

What can Iconic Elements skincare do for you?

At Iconic Elements, we understand the need to care for the skin, especially when it is sensitive to irritation from synthetic clothing. Our Calming Cream, enriched with marshmallow root, avena sativa (oat extract), and ectoine, provides immediate relief and long-lasting protection for irritated skin. These ingredients are carefully selected for their soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.

In addition, our Natural Moisturizer Cream offers triple action against dry skin and improves skin hydration. This cream is specially formulated to strengthen the skin barrier and restore the natural moisture balance of the skin, keeping the skin soft, supple and free from itchiness.

It is essential to invest in products that not only combat symptoms but also contribute to the overall health of the skin. With Iconic Elements, you opt for an evidence-based approach aimed at long-term results and a happy, healthy skin.

Now that you’re here

Discover the core of Iconic Elements skincare: “What we value for you”. At Iconic Elements, we strive not only to provide high-quality skincare products, but also to promote a healthy and balanced skin. Our focus is on correcting, hydrating, and protecting your skin with formulas that are free of microplastics and parabens. We ask ourselves: “What would a dermatologist use?”

Behind Iconic Elements stands dermatologist Dr. Francis Wu, whose dedication to improving skin health and well-being has led to the development of this unique line. His passion for supporting people with skin challenges and his extensive dermatological knowledge are the foundation of Iconic Elements.

Click through to our page to learn more about our commitment to your skin health.