Living with Fabric Allergies

By Jeany Miller

According to experts, approximately 50 million Americans, including millions of children, suffer from allergies. These account for major illnesses that rage throughout the entire year. By definition, an allergy is the immune system's overreaction to a substance that is harmless to other people. That substance is called an allergen, and the body treats it as an invader. Symptoms that range from watery eyes to wheezing to skin rashes thus ensue. Allergens cover a wide range of subjects. Dust is one of the most common, but people also suffer from allergies to pets, insects and food items. Perhaps one of the most troubling allergies is that of fabric. This is a condition in which a person experiences allergic contact dermatitis as a result of his or her clothing, accessories or other garments that he or she has touched.

Understanding Allergic Dermatitis

According to government agencies, all fibers can cause irritant and allergic contact dermatitis. An example of this is found in such common fabrics as wool, where lesions may occur on the skin in a reaction to the material. Researchers go on to say that reactions are commonly found where the garments fit snugly, and in areas where skin friction and perspiration are worse. In addition to the fabric itself, allergy sufferers may also have an adverse reaction to the actual ingredients used in the fabric. Some of these are as follows:

Rubber
Formaldehyde finishing resins that impart wrinkle resistance
Chemical additives
Dyes
Glues
Metallic fasteners
Elastic in brassieres and the waistband of pants or undergarments

Latex is another material that commonly causes dermatitis on the hands. According to health professionals, allergic reactions can occur to the chemicals used in processing latex. These include preservatives, anti-oxidants and rubber additives. Persons with eczema or similar skin conditions are also more likely to develop skin irritation to specific fabrics. While this is different from an actual allergic reaction, the outbreak of a skin rash or hives is still likely to occur. Exposure to textile formaldehyde resins may cause burning sensations in the eyes, nose and throat; tightness of the chest or wheezing, fatigue and headaches. These are in addition to the tell-tale red rash that appears in either a localized or multiple different spots on the skin.

Managing Fabric Allergies

One of the foremost ways that persons with fabric allergies can manage is by being a selective shopper. This means knowing which clothes and bedding are least likely to trigger a skin outbreak. According to physicians, cotton and silk fabrics are the best options, while synthetic and artificial materials like rayon, acetate, nylon and polyester should be avoided. Persons will also do well to shy away from clothing that is labeled as crease-free, non-iron, wrinkle-resistant or flame-resistant. The chemical ingredients they contain can trigger allergic reactions. If they are purchased, those clothes should be washed well before wearing. Follow these guidelines in order to manage fabric allergies:

Buy garments that fit properly and are neither too loose nor too tight.
Look for allergy-free clothing and bedding, which are specifically designed for persons with fabric allergies.
Use laundry detergents and fabric softeners that are free of dyes and perfumes, which may linger in fabrics and stimulate later allergic reactions.
Layer clothing appropriately throughout the year, as heat and humidity can further aggravate fabric allergies.
Avoid exposure to harsh soaps, new skin products or creams, all of which can irritate sensitive skin and promote allergic breakouts.
Keep skin healthy and moisturized with a well-balanced diet, nutritional supplements and plenty of water.
Stick to a basic skin care regimen that includes natural soap and moisturizer. Avoid altering this routine once it is established so as to avoid new and potentially damaging products to the skin.

During times of allergic reactions, certain steps can minimize the outbreak. Physicians recommend lubricating skin frequently and avoiding scratching or rubbing whenever possible. Protect skin from external stimulants, including sun and heat. Finally, persons should recognize and limit emotional stress, which can impair the body's ability to naturally restore health to the skin.

Sources:

http://kidshealth.org/parent/medical/allergies/allergy.html

http://www.lni.wa.gov/Safety/Research/Dermatitis/files/clothing.pdf

http://www.yourasthmatreatment.com/allergy-clothing.htm

http://www.medicinenet.com/atopic_dermatitis/page9.htm