Apparel and Textile Choices to Ensure Breathability for High School Comfort
Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that can cause painful boil-like bumps on the skin. During flares, certain fabrics, designs, and types of clothing can exacerbate the symptoms. However, there are clothing options available that can provide comfort, reduce irritation, and accommodate the skin's sensitivity.
One such option is clothing made from soft, breathable, and moisture-wicking fabrics. These fabrics can prevent friction and pull sweat away from HS-prone skin, making them ideal for HS-friendly clothing. Bamboo fabric, for instance, feels cool against the skin and is less prone to wrinkles. Tencel, a fabric used in athletic fabrics, is also a good choice for workout clothes. Modal and lyocell, durable and flexible forms of rayon, are also recommended.
Cotton, while commonly used, is generally not recommended for HS-prone areas due to its tendency to cause friction and trap bacteria and sweat against the skin. Instead, opt for seamless underwear designs, such as boy short or bicycle short designs, boxer briefs, bralettes, brami, or longline sports bras. Racerback designs may be more comfortable, and undergarments with underwire or thin straps should be avoided.
When it comes to clothing for everyday wear, brands like ADAY offer upscale clothes with Tencel, a fabric recommended for HS-friendly clothing. HidraWear, another brand, offers HS-friendly clothing that combines undergarments, wound dressings, and fasteners. Their founder lives with HS, providing a personal understanding of the condition.
When exercising, it's important to swap into clean clothes after sweating to prevent sweat from aggravating HS. Search for seamless longline sports bras and technical T-shirts to protect areas prone to flares during exercise.
In Germany, special clothing for people with HS exists to provide comfort, reduce irritation, and accommodate the skin's sensitivity due to the chronic inflammatory condition. Such clothing can be purchased from specialized medical supply stores or online retailers focusing on adaptive and dermatologically friendly apparel.
There are designs out there that can keep you cool, comfortable, and looking fabulous, despite HS. With the right choices in clothing, HS sufferers can manage their symptoms and maintain their style.
