Spandex, a synthetic fabric derived from a plastic base, is renowned for its elasticity. Developed in 1959, it quickly gained popularity due to its affordability, widespread availability, and exceptional stretchiness, along with its smooth texture. Commonly utilized in the production of shorts, tights, leggings, shirts, and undergarments, spandex offers flexibility and comfort. However, regular wearers should consider transitioning to cotton clothing due to four significant drawbacks associated with spandex:
1. Allergic Reactions
The inability of spandex to absorb sweat in high humidity conditions, particularly prevalent in regions like India, can heighten susceptibility to skin allergies. Moisture retention exacerbates this issue, facilitating allergen penetration into the skin. The manufacturing process of spandex, involving raw materials and toxic chemicals, can release irritants when combined with sweat, potentially triggering allergies (1).
2. Fungal or Bacterial Skin Disorders
Spandex’s inability to absorb sweat creates an environment conducive to fungal or bacterial growth, leading to various skin ailments (2). Conditions like ringworm, characterized by red rings with central pigmentation and itching, are common. Additionally, bacterial infections such as folliculitis and impetigo can occur, necessitating medical intervention and possibly recurring.
3. Yeast Infections
Wearing spandex underwear can elevate the risk of yeast infections, as the fabric’s lack of breathability promotes the proliferation of Candida albicans fungus. This can affect both men and women, particularly in warmer climates, showing the importance of switching to breathable cotton undergarments to mitigate this risk.
4. Limited Durability
Apart from health concerns, spandex garments have a short lifespan, losing their shape and elasticity after repeated washes. Moreover, the fabric’s inability to withstand hot water washing makes maintenance more laborious compared to cotton. These factors contribute to the overall inconvenience and costliness of spandex clothing upkeep.