Allergies to Spandex, polyester, or lycra...anyone else have this problem?

So, after going to the dermatologist over 3 times over a year period, and given an assortment of creams and ointments, I still can't get ride of my groin, lower back, and waist rash.

From my last visit yesterday, the doctor told me he could perform a patch test over 4 visits to determine if I'm allergic to 29 common items for $1200, but he's pretty confident that I'm allergic to the rubber, lycra, or polyester from my bike clothe. The chemicals leach into the skin in areas where sweating occurs the most. He told me to stay away from biking or look for cotton based biking clothe. I have never seen any bike clothe,other than smartwool products, that do no contain polyester or spandex/rubber materials.

Anyone else have this problem or can provide any advice or direction for other clothing alternatives?

Thanks!

 

Binh - sorry to hear... I don't know about the men's version, but the women's lycra shorts do not have rubber on any off the bands. I can't stand rubber, but luckily I'm not allergic.

 

Dude! Ride naked...it's all the rage.

 

Sounds like a great doctor.

I get similar rashes but have never been to a dermatologist. The creams and ointments prescribed by my regular doctor sometimes work for awhile but the rash eventually comes back. I've always thought that my skin is just extra sensitive to certain types of soap or lotion. I also notice that the rashes are at their worst when the air is dry.

In my case, I don't think it's the clothes.

 

Binh, check this website for wool cycling gear:

http://www.ibexwear.com/shop/product/1757/8990/mens-arrivee-bib-shorts

 

Itch free and loving it!

Seriously, try this first. I had some breakout from my riding gear, shorts and underarmor skin-tight shirts etc. Found the skin breakout issue was with two items.

1. Laundry detergent. (I used to use Tide)
2. Fabric softener. (Used to use "Bounce" fabric softener sheets in the dryer, LOTS of skin problem issues on the web about these bad boys)

Solution?

1. Use "Free and Clear" (All, in the white bottle) Laundry detergent. http://www.all-laundry.com/#/freeclear/
There are several other brands, it has no dyes or perfumes and is made for those with skin sensitivities. Sweaty riding gear brings out the worst with any skin reactions. Also, use MUCH LESS than normal. Many articles written about how we typically use way more detergent than needed when washing clothes.
2. If using fabric softeners with riding gear, stop doing so. If using fabric softener with 9 to 5 work clothes or undergarmets use Downy scent free and sensitive. http://www.downy.com/en-US/product/ultra-downy-free-and-sensitive-liquid.jspx Either way, just STOP using fabric softener sheets in the dryer, on anything.

3. Seriously try these suggestions. The only other suggestion is to do a double rinse. When your riding gear is done in the washer, run it thru a 2nd rinse cycle.

 

^^^ I'd put money on this first.

 

Something else that might apply: I was getting rash after using talc based powder in bike shorts during the hot season to help avoid monkey butt. Found out I was allergic to talc. Got clued in when I used some latex medical gloves(talc powder lined) and fingers got same type rash. Took 2 weeks to clear! Quit talc powder and got different gloves, all well now. Found out that talc allergies are common.

Also, I believe that fabric softener is a no-no for lycra/chamois type shorts(as well as microfiber cloths, most "breathable" sportswear like gore-tex).

 

Wool Links

Dude I'm Sooo glad you didn't post any pictures!:lol: I have looked at all the wool jerserys on the net and there are some things out there that might help you.

http://www.joneswares.com/category/Men_Unisex/67

http://www.earthwindandrider.com/

http://www.oregoncyclewear.com/woolcyclingjerseys.html

And there is that guy in Torrance that has wool too. Whats the name of that place?

This guy: http://www.kucharik.com/

http://www.boure.com/index.html

And now don't work too hard with all those links.:-k

 

Jonesware stuff is unbelieveably good. Pricey, but works.

 

I had this too. But it comes from New Zeland
http://http://www.aspiringcyclewear.co.nz/mens_ls.html

 

I'm allergic to latex... Hold the comments!

 

I usually wear Redhead shorts and cotton Hanes underneath. I have never had any rash issues and I have sensitive skin.

Can't stand the look or the feel of of MTB shorts that are the "norm" these days.

I prefer cotton tshirts to jerseys, but I sweat too much and suffer with the icky feel of bike jerseys.

http://www.basspro.com/RedHead%C2%AE-8Pocket-Hiker-Shorts-for-Men/product/16307/-851679

 

The underlined is IMPORTANT.......... You Never want to use ANY type of fabric softener on any sports equipment.

This goes for sheets, and liquids.... I take the liquid cup out of the washer and clean it out before I wash my riding gear.... EVERYTIME.

No jokes from me, thats a serious allergy

 

Nope, i'm good!

 

Binh, I seriously doubt it's the rubber and lycra. If it were, you'd be getting rashes on your thighs and other areas from the lycra. It seems to me that the break outs are in the areas that are more prone to friction and sweat, i.e. the waistband, groin and your back, where your Camelback lays.

I agree with the statements above. Try allergen free detergent and never use fabric softeners or wear underwear with your chamois! (You may already be doing this.) Do you use chamois cream, etc? Maybe you need to experiment with some powder or something (other than Talc) on those areas to see if that helps with the rashes.