Pressure from an elastic that sits too tight
Short answer: A groove in the skin after a waistband means the pressure is concentrated on too little skin. A wider elastic solves it more often than a larger size.
What the groove means
A visible indentation in the skin shows that local blood flow has been reduced. It disappears within an hour. If it lasts several hours, the elastic was too tight.
Width beats size
The same grip spread over four centimetres instead of one gives a quarter of the pressure per square centimetre. That is why wide waistbands feel softer. See bamboo boxer briefs for men.
When you should change size
If the groove runs all the way round and not only where you sit. Then the garment is too small. See bamboo briefs for women and bamboo socks for women.
Frequently asked questions
Is a groove dangerous
No, if it disappears within an hour. Otherwise choose something looser.
Why is it worse in the evening
The body holds more fluid at the end of the day, and everything fits tighter.
Can you stretch an elastic out
Only temporarily. It contracts again after washing.
