Can Compression Fabrics Cause Skin Problems?

Compression wear is all the rage in the fitness world. From enhancing performance to giving you that superhero look, it’s everywhere. But have you ever wondered if these tight-fitting fabrics might be causing more harm than good? Let’s break it down.

What Is Textile Contact Dermatitis?

(The skin problem that comes from compression wear)
Textile contact dermatitis is a skin condition that occurs when your skin reacts to certain fabrics or chemicals used in clothing. It can cause redness, itching, and irritation, especially in areas where the fabric constantly rubs against your skin.

The Science Behind It

Leading dermatologists and medical experts—Dr. Cecilia Svedman and Dr. Malin Engfeldt from Sweden, and Dr. Laura Malinauskiene from Lithuania—have studied how fabrics, including compression wear, can lead to skin issues. Here’s what they found.

1. Friction and Sweat: Tight compression fabrics can rub against your skin, and when combined with sweat, this friction can cause irritation, particularly in areas like your waist, underarms, and behind your knees.
2. Chemical Additives: Synthetic fabrics like polyester or nylon are often treated with dyes or chemicals to enhance performance. However, these additives can sometimes trigger allergic reactions, leading to rashes or itchiness.

Compression wear gives you that sleek, muscular look, making you feel unstoppable. But here’s the kicker: a lot of the “benefits” you feel might actually be in your head. Research shows that many people report feeling stronger or more supported while wearing compression gear, but this is often due to the placebo effect.

And let’s talk about back pain. Compression garments might make you feel like they’re helping, but they won’t fix bad posture or weak core muscles. They create a sensation of being “held together,” which can trick you into thinking you’re more stable than you really are.

So, while compression fabrics won’t make you stronger, they can give you the confidence boost to feel like you’re ready to conquer your workout—just be mindful of the potential skin risks.

Reference:

Svedman, C., Engfeldt, M., and Malinauskiene, L. (2019) ‘Textile Contact Dermatitis: How Fabrics Can Induce Dermatitis’, Current Treatment Options in Allergy, 6(1), pp. 103–111. DOI: 10.1007/s40521-019-0197-5.