Underwear for delicate skin
Short answer: If your skin is sensitive, three things matter most: that the fabric moves moisture away, that there are no hard seams, and that there is no fabric softener residue in the fabric. Small changes in what you choose and how you wash can make everyday life easier.
Moisture
Moisture against the skin for many hours causes irritation, especially in the crotch, where little air gets in. A fabric that moves moisture away and dries quickly is therefore the most important choice. Bamboo viscose feels soft and less clammy than many other fabrics. See bamboo briefs.
Seams
Hard seams at the crotch and leg rub against the skin with every movement. Flat seams and printed labels instead of sewn ones remove most of the chafing. Also check whether there is a label at the waist that scratches. Read more about underwear without labels and seams.
Fabric softener
Fabric softener residue sits against the skin all day and is a common cause of irritation. Softener leaves a film on the fabric that also makes it worse at moving moisture. Skip it completely for underwear. The fabric becomes soft enough on its own when it is air dried.
Detergent
Choose a mild, fragrance-free detergent, and dose according to the pack or a little less. Too much detergent is not fully rinsed out and stays in the fabric. Wash at 40 degrees, and use an extra rinse if you can. Read more in the washing guide.
Fit
Briefs that are too tight rub and press, and briefs that are too loose move and bunch up. Both create friction. Choose a size that fits close without squeezing, and a style where the edge at the leg lies calmly against the skin.
Dye
Some people with sensitive skin find that dark and strong colours irritate more than light ones. This does not apply to everyone, but it can be worth trying. Wash new briefs before wearing them for the first time, so excess dye and residue from production are rinsed out.
Change daily
Underwear should be changed every day, whatever the fabric. If you train or sweat a lot, change again afterwards. Moisture that stays in the fabric creates the best conditions for irritation. Keep a spare pair in your bag on long days.
At night
Many people with sensitive skin find it helps to sleep in loose, soft briefs or without any at all. That lets air reach the skin for many hours. Choose something light and loose if you sleep in underwear, and avoid tight edges at night.
See the range
When choosing underwear for sensitive skin, the fabric, the seams and the fit matter most. What the packaging says matters less than what you feel against the skin. See the whole group in bamboo underwear for women, and start with one pair before buying more.
Talk to your doctor
If the irritation continues, or comes with itching, burning or discharge, your doctor should look at it. Clothing choices can make everyday life easier, but they do not replace treatment. It can help to mention which detergent and which underwear you use when you talk to your doctor.
Frequently asked questions
What matters most for sensitive skin?
That moisture is moved away and there is no fabric softener residue in the fabric. Flat seams and a fit that does not rub come right after.
Should I stop using fabric softener?
Yes. It leaves a film on the fabric that sits against the skin all day and makes the fabric worse at moving moisture away.
When should I talk to my doctor?
If the irritation continues, or if there is itching, burning or discharge. Clothing choices can help in everyday life, but they do not replace an examination.
See our range of Boody underwear.
