Living with allergies is exhausting. It’s a constant battle fighting the itch and trying to avoid things that set it off. It’s manageable to avoid certain foods and various ingredients in things like skincare or even washing detergent, but when it comes to the actual clothes we wear it can be more of a medical minefield. The reality is, lots of the items that are readily available to us are made in fabrics that can aggravate sensitive skin, and they’re not made with consideration for things that can incite a flare up. However, there are options out there, you just have to know where to look for them. One of the most eczema-friendly fabrics on the market is bamboo. We’re here to give you five reasons why it might be the answer to all your problems (okay, not ALL your problems, but it’s a good starting point).

1. Bamboo is hypoallergenic - but what does this actually mean?

 Hypoallergenic essentially means that it’s highly unlikely to cause a reaction and bamboo is particularly good at that for various different reasons. Firstly, bamboo fibres are rounded and do not easily fray because they are so durable. This means that there are no sharp edges (even when you wash them over and over) that are likely to scratch and irritate the sensitive skin.

2. Bamboo is super absorbent and moisture wicking.

A lot of skin irritation occurs when there is too much moisture resting on top of the skin. Bamboo material draws moisture away from the skin and to the surface of the fabric to evaporate, keeping you comfortable.

3. Bamboo is thermoregulating.

Bamboo fibres have a hollow micro-structure that helps air to flow freely, maintaining a comfortable body temperature no matter the external climate. These fibres allow your skin to breathe properly, and have moisture wicking properties that draw sweat away from the body. Basically, the thermoregulating quality of bamboo keeps you cool when it’s warm and warm when it’s cool, and this all helps to reduce irritation to your sensitive skin.

4. Bamboo Kun (antimicrobial bio-agent).

Bamboo has an organically occurring antimicrobial bio-agent called kun. Kun is naturally found in bamboo and it protects the plant from insects and bacteria which, in turn, means there is no need for the use of harmful and irritating pesticides. It also prevents the building of bacteria and naturally resists allergens.

5. Bamboo is anti-static.

Finally, it's anti-static, so it glides over even the most sensitive skin super smoothly and doesn't cling at all which can cause more irritation. Tick, tick and tick. 

Happy skin starts with bamboo underwear

At Positive Outlook we've created a range of silky soft underwear for every body (literally). Our classic styles are made from breathable, hypoallargenic fabrics, with no clasps or wires that have that barely-there feeling while keeping you supported all day. Try our 'comfort brief' for ultimate coverage and pair it with our 'square bralette' for all-day comfort no matter the climate.

View our entire bamboo underwear collection here and experience a new level of comfort. It really has to be felt to be believed.

Other allergy sites to check out

With more and more awareness around allergies and the rise in social media, it’s easier for those with allergies to communicate and share their experiences. Blog sites such as eczema.org have a list of different brands for specific things such as school uniform suppliers, and blog sites such as whatallergy.com have blog posts on various different hints and tips for living with allergies of varying severity. Also check out AllergyCompanions.com before you head anywhere for a meal, for user reviews on allergy safe eating locations. We understand that it can be super frustrating trying to navigate pesky allergies but, like most things in life, with support from each other a problem shared becomes a problem halved.

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Blog Author: Rachael Perry - Jan 9th 2023