ALLERGY TO CLOTHING: FASTENINGS, TRIMMINGS, LININGS AND ELASTIC
Finally, trouble with clothing can result from reactions to fastenings, trimmings, linings and elastic. Mostly the problem is obvious, through a contact reaction with a metal fastening or with lace trim, or an elastic strap or waistband, for instance. Look out, however, for garment linings, which are often synthetics or viscose. The thread used to sew seams in clothes can also be bothersome.
If a garment lining causes discomfort, cut it out and see if the trouble goes away. Cut off lace and trims if necessary. Elastic or sewing thread next to the skin can be a severe problem, where the sensitivity is often exacerbated by sweat and friction. To avoid problems with elastic or sewing thread, try any of the following:
• Look for underclothes or nightwear with cased elastic bands which will protect the skin
• Wear underwear inside out so that fabric is next to the skin
• Wear a thin silk vest under bras or close-fitting underwear
• Place cotton handkerchieves or silk scarves under the elastic to protect the skin
• Swab those areas with Boots Cream of Magnesia liquid to calm symptoms
• Avoid cotton clothes containing Lycra or Elastane
Silk clothes and underwear can be useful because they are often sewn with silk thread.
Look out for waddings, paddings and shoulder pads. Remove them if you have to. Be careful with cotton interlinings, which can be treated with formaldehyde resin to strengthen them. Watch out for pocket linings and zips. To protect against metal fastenings or buttons, use any of the protection methods suggested for elastic and thread above.
If you cannot work out what is causing a contact skin reaction, bear in mind that contact reactions to things like fastenings and trimmings do not necessarily occur at the site where the offending object makes contact. Contact reactions can occur at other parts of the body. They can also occur with a delayed reaction – sometimes a few days later. You may have to experiment carefully with clothing to establish a pattern.
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