Do you think that you’re allergic to your underwear? If you’ve got a rash or some severe itching around the area, you may have allergies.
Here, we’ll provide you with everything you need to know about hypoallergenic underwear. We’ll also talk about what materials could be triggering these allergies, and provide you with some product recommendations.
Read on to find out more!
Can I be allergic to my underwear?
Yes, you can be allergic to the fabrics, dyes, chemicals, and preservatives in your underwear. Individuals are most commonly allergic to latex – commonly found within the waistbands of underwear.
What are the symptoms of an underwear allergy?
If you’ve got an allergy you’ll most likely develop contact dermatitis.
Symptoms can include:
- Red rashes
- Itching that may be severe
- Dry and cracked skin
- Bumps and blisters that can sometimes ooze or crust
- Swelling, burning and/or tenderness
Which materials in underwear can trigger your allergies?
While certain fabric types can trigger allergies, it’s most likely the dyes, chemicals or preservatives that are causing the allergies. Latex and spandex in particular can also cause reactions on your skin.
If it’s not the material, you might want to take a look at the type of detergent and fabric softener you’re using. Some ingredients within these two items that may be triggering allergies include:
- SLS/SLES
- Phosphates
- Chlorine Bleach
- Fragrances
- Dyes
- Benzyl Acetate
- Animal products that you may be allergic to
What are some great hypoallergenic underwear?

If you’re allergic to the underwear you currently have, consider purchasing any of these great hypoallergenic underwear products.
Juliemay Cotton & Silk Collection
Juliemay Lingerie’s cotton and silk collections are AllergyUK accredited as friendly for people with sensitive skins and allergic reactions to synthetic bras. The bra sets are made from Certified Organic Pima Cotton and Pure Silk to bring the most comfortable allergy-free wearing experience. 100% Pure Silk is used for the bra inner layers and the brief crotch, which are luxuriously soft. No Latex. No Nickels. No Elastics touching the skins.

Cottonique
These Cottonique panties are made of 100% cotton and are great for those with allergies as it’s free from spandex, chemicals and synthetics. In terms of cut, its got a low-rise waist with a high-cut leg opening.

Knitlord
For underwear made with high-quality fabrics, you can’t go wrong with Knitlord. Every piece of underwear they sell is soft, comfortable, and made from 100% cotton and hypoallergenic material.

Iris & Lily
Iris & Lily’s underwear are also made with cotton, and are designed with a high-rise waist, wide sides and a full back for complete coverage. All of their underwear is made from hypoallergenic, soft, and breathable cotton for all-day comfort.

FAQ’s – You Ask, We Answer
Below are answers to some of the commonly asked questions we’ve received.
Can I be allergic to my underwear?
Yes, you can. While you can be allergic to the material, you could also be allergic to the elastic or the detergent and fabric softener used to wash your underwear.
What is the best underwear for sensitive skin?
Cotton’s the best type of underwear for sensitive skin as it is breathable and wicks away moisture. Try to avoid materials like polyester and spandex as these trap heat and moisture.
What is the most breathable fabric for underwear?
Cotton’s the most breathable material, and it’s also supremely comfortable. Other natural materials like bamboo are also worth considering.
Can synthetic underwear cause irritation?
Synthetic underwear isn’t as great as cotton underwear as they’re not as absorbent and can cause irritation. It’s best to opt for cotton underwear as it’s a much more breathable fabric.
Is it OK to go commando?
Yes, it’s okay to go commando – especially if you’re home. Going commando can actually be good for your vaginal health and it’ll help in preventing frequent yeast infections.
What type of underwear prevents yeast infections?
Any type of underwear that is breathable, and also has moisture-wicking qualities will help with preventing yeast infections.
Should I wear underwear with thrush?
If you’ve got a yeast infection, going underwear-free may be a good idea. Underwear can trap moisture and create a breeding ground for bad bacteria that causes these conditions.
So that’s a wrap folks! We hope that this article gives you a comprehensive overview of hypoallergenic underwear and what causes allergies ‘down there’. By wearing hypoallergenic underwear, you’ll be able to minimise certain conditions such as yeast infections and unwanted irritation from occurring.