Can you be allergic to wetsuits?
Have you ever developed a body rash when you wore a wetsuit? It could be an allergy to neoprene, says John Wood. Here he explains more
Triathlon wetsuits are made of tight, rubbery neoprene material which aims to insulate and lift the body in the water. For many races, wetsuits are compulsory. But what should you do if you start to feel a reaction when wearing a wetsuit? Can you be allergic to wetsuits?
Wetsuits are broadly made up of two main parts – the neoprene rubber (the outer bit) and a fabric jersey (the material on the inside). Chances are, if you’re allergic to something, it’s the neoprene.
I rarely, if ever, get asked about neoprene allergies – I think I’ve talked to two athletes before about it – but clearly, it’s a fact of life for some athletes and if that includes you, it’s important to seek medical advice. Let’s delve deeper into the causes, symptoms, and possible solutions for wetsuit allergies.
What causes wetsuit allergies?
Here’s what we know. If you do have an allergy to neoprene, it’s simply contact dermatitis and not unique to neoprene. There are literally thousands of different environmental, domestic and industrial elements that can give you contact dermatitis. Your pets, for example, are far more likely to give you contact dermatitis than neoprene. But allergies to neoprene can happen.
So we know that neoprene — the technical name of which is polychloroprene — can sometimes cause contact dermatitis. But what exactly are the symptoms of this common condition? “Contact dermatitis is a condition in which the skin becomes red, sore or inflamed after direct contact with a substance,” explains the New York Times Health Guide. However, in the same article, the scientists were quick to point out that “neoprene hypersensitivity is rare”.
Another explanation for feeling an onslaught of allergies from wearing a wetsuit could be due from additives and manufacturing processes. If you have a latex allergy, this shouldn’t be affected by wearing a wetsuit since neoprene is naturally latex-free.
However, accelerators and stabilizers, such as thiurams, carbamates, or mercaptobenzothiazole (MBT), are used in neoprene production. These chemicals can cause contact dermatitis in sensitive individuals. Then, there are also the glues used to bond neoprene layers together or reinforce seams that could contain allergenic substances.
Symptoms of wetsuit allergies
The symptoms of an allergic reaction to wetsuits, or contact dermatitis more specifically, can range from mild irritation to severe discomfort. Symptoms typically appear within hours of wearing the wetsuit and may persist for days after exposure. Common signs include:
- Skin rash: Red, itchy patches or hives on the areas of skin in contact with the wetsuit.
- Swelling or blisters: Localized swelling or blistering, especially in areas with tight seams.
- Burning sensation: A feeling of heat or burning on the skin.
- Eczema flare-ups: In individuals prone to eczema, wetsuit use can trigger or worsen outbreaks.
Is Thiuram to blame?
According to a report entitled ‘Neoprene Orthopaedic Supports: An Under-recognized Cause of Allergic Contact Dermatitis’, the specific culprit is Thiuram. Fortunately, there have been advances in rubber technologies with neoprene-like rubbers that do not contain Thiuram. My understanding is that a non-petroleum based rubber may work.
In this instance, a limestone-based neoprene that Dare 2 Tri use could be of use and not cause such a reaction. I’m sure that there are other swim/tri brands available doing similar things, though the main options I know of are surf-based. If you contact any brand and explain to them your issues, they may be able to send you a sample of the material to see how and whether your skin reacts to it.
Managing and preventing wetsuit allergies
If you do suffer from any of the issues mentioned in this article, don’t worry—there are ways to manage and prevent allergy-like reactions to wearing wetsuits.
Firstly, consider switching to neoprene-free wetsuits made from materials like Yulex (natural rubber), which may be less likely to cause allergies or rashes. Though not ideal for racing situations, wearing a barrier layer such as a full-body rash guard or a thin base layer under your wetsuit can minimise direct skin contact.
As with any skin issues, be sure to thoroughly wash all of your kit after every use with clean water, this is especially key if wearing a wetsuit irritates your skin. Don’t forget that employing a simple tool like wetsuit lube will help in reducing any chafing and act as an additional barrier to protect sensitive areas of your skin.
If you do have any concerns, as always seek medical advice from a doctor.
John Wood
Swim coach 
