When dressing for the daily routine or for physical activity, the impact that the type of fabric has on skin health is rarely taken into account. Choosing the wrong garment can promote the accumulation of moisture, bad odors and the development of skin infections such as fungi.
Dr. Roberto García Castillo (@doc_anticancer), surgical oncologist at Panama Cancer Clinic, explains how to select the right textile according to each daily activity.
Polyester vs. Cotton: Which One to Choose According to the Activity?
The type of fibre directly influences the garment’s ability to manage perspiration and keep the skin cool.
1. Polyester for exercise and physical activity
During training, the body generates sweat to regulate temperature. High-polyester garments are designed to:
- Facilitate rapid evaporation: They expel moisture to the outside of the fabric without retaining water in direct contact with the skin.
- Keep the garment light: They prevent the clothes from becoming heavy and uncomfortable due to accumulated sweat.
2. Cotton for day-to-day, office and rest
Cotton is a soft natural fibre that breathes well in resting conditions, but reacts differently to heavy sweating:
- Greater absorption and retention: It absorbs sweat but takes longer to evaporate it.
- Risk of bacterial proliferation: Keeping cotton garments moist against the skin creates an environment conducive to fungi, bacteria and bad odors.
Risks of Keeping Moisture in the Skin
Wearing clothing that retains moisture during or after exercise exposes the body to various dermatological problems:
- Fungal infections (fungi): Warm and watery environments favor the proliferation of microscopic organisms.
- Irritations and chafing: The friction of wet fabrics against the skin can cause lacerations or dermatitis.
- Persistently trapped bad odors: The combination of bacteria and stagnant sweat makes it difficult to control body odor.
Practical Recommendations for Daily Care
Selecting the right outfit every morning is a key decision to protect long-term skin health:
- Use breathable synthetic materials (polyester or nylon) exclusively for intense workouts or hikes.
- Reserve cotton for low-impact activities, office work, or sleep.
- Change sweaty clothes immediately after physical activity to prevent moisture buildup.
Your Health Starts in Your Daily Habits
Dr. Roberto García Castillo promotes comprehensive care that ranges from cutting-edge surgical technology to the promotion of daily habits that protect your health.
