From the Guidelines
Polyester underwear or clothing is not conclusively proven to be directly harmful to people, but its potential to release microplastics and trap moisture may pose indirect health risks. The release of microplastics from polyester clothing, as discussed in a 2025 study published in the Journal of Hazardous Materials 1, highlights the environmental concerns associated with these synthetic fibers. While the direct health impacts of microplastics from clothing are unclear, the non-breathable nature of polyester can lead to skin irritation, rashes, or infections, particularly in intimate areas. Key considerations include:
- The potential for microplastics to serve as carriers of dangerous substances, such as heavy metals and persistent organic pollutants (POPs) 1
- The risk of physical blockages, absorption of toxins, and bio-magnification of these toxins through the food chain 1
- The importance of choosing natural, breathable fabrics like cotton for underwear, especially for individuals with sensitive skin or prone to genital infections
- The potential for skin irritation in people with specific sensitivities to synthetic fibers like polyester It is essential to weigh these factors and consider the individual's specific needs and sensitivities when deciding on the type of clothing to wear.
From the Research
Polyester Underwear and Clothing
- There is no direct evidence in the provided studies that suggests polyester underwear or clothing is bad for people due to microplastics, sweat, or other factors 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- However, it is known that some people may experience skin irritation or allergic reactions to certain fabrics or dyes used in clothing, including polyester 6.
Skin Irritation and Sensitization
- Skin irritation presents a major health problem with serious social and occupational impact, and can be caused by various factors including irritants, allergens, and environmental variables 2.
- The main pathological mechanisms of irritancy include skin barrier disruption, induction of a cytokine cascade, and involvement of the oxidative stress network, resulting in a visible or subclinical inflammatory reaction 2.
- Different non-invasive parameters can be used to evaluate skin irritation and irritant potential of compounds and their specific formulations, such as epidermal barrier function, skin hydration, surface pH, lipid composition, skin color, and skin blood flow 2.
Emollient Creams and Skin Barrier
- Emollient creams can have different effects on the skin barrier, and some may be more effective than others in improving skin hydration and reducing irritation 3.
- A study compared the effects of three different emollient creams and a no-treatment control on the skin barrier in adults with atopic dermatitis, and found that a urea-glycerol cream significantly improved skin hydration and reduced irritation compared to the other treatments 3.
Sensitive Skin and Active Ingredients
- Sensitive skin is characterized by self-reported sensory perceptions in response to stimuli that should not provoke unpleasant sensations, and cosmetic products for sensitive skin are designed to minimize these symptoms 5.
- A study analyzed the active ingredients used in facial care products for sensitive skin and found that niacinamide, Avena sativa, allantoin, glycyrrhetinic acid, and Laminaria ochroleuca were the most commonly used ingredients, and that ingredients that can reduce skin inflammation and act on the skin barrier were used in more than half of the products analyzed 5.
Contact Dermatitis and Allergens
- Consumer products and topical medications can contain many allergens that can cause allergic contact dermatitis, and it is essential to be aware of these allergens and take steps to avoid them 6.
- A review discussed various allergens in consumer products and topical medications, including corticosteroids, estrogen and testosterone transdermal therapeutic systems, local anesthetics, antihistamines, topical antibiotics, and sunscreens, and examined cross-reactivities between these allergens 6.