Bra Allergies: What You Need to Be Aware Of

Bras are an essential part of a woman’s wardrobe. The problem is that some are actually allergic to the materials that their brassieres are made of. Most bra manufacturers boast of their wide selection of bras that are made of different materials like lace, satin, foam, spandex and even latex. While you might think that these look absolutely gorgeous, they may cause irritation on the skin. Latex, spandex, and foam are specially known for their irritating effects. Like foam, latex is a strong allergen that causes skin irritation and respiratory problems while spandex contains harmful chemicals like TDI and MDI, which are known to have carcinogenic properties.

One popular metal used in bra clasps is nickel. While it is a really sturdy material that can provide great support for your bras, it has the unfortunate side effect of causing allergies. In some parts of Europe, nickel allergy has become such a huge problem that doctors had deemed it a public health concern. Women are more prone to developing nickel allergies because they are more exposed to it through jewelry and bra clasps made of nickel. Studies also found that the more an individual is exposed to nickel, the more it can trigger serious health issues like dermatitis, eczema, and anaphylactic shock.

If you have sensitive skin or already have allergy issues, you should be more careful when you buy clothing and undergarments. Always ask about the product and do some research before you make a purchase.