10 Best Underwear for Sensitive Skin

Sensitive skin has to be pampered. Forget about using fragrance heavy lotions, ointments, and soaps. You even have to be careful about the type of clothes that touch your temperamental skin.

Depending on the fabric your underwear is made of, the material can lead to irritation and massive discomfort. If your underwear has irritants such as latex and spandex you may have an unpleasant reaction.

If latex is used, it shouldn’t be in direct contact with your skin to avoid latex-induced allergies. Spandex is found in a lot of underwear because it helps the undies retain their shape and stay flexible.

But, you want the least amount of spandex in your underwear as possible to avoid allergic reactions. Even cotton underwear can cause problems if the cotton was exposed to pesticides when it was grown.

Going organic is a good option. But then you have to figure out where to find this type of underwear.

You also need to make sure the underwear will feel good without breaking the bank. That’s why this guide has been created. It details the best underwear for sensitive skin.

Top 10 Best Underwear for Sensitive Skin

Cottonique Women's Spandex-Free Bikini Brief

Pro: 100% organic cotton.
Con: Little elastic.

Hypoallergenic: This gem feels super soft and breathable. It has zero spandex or latex which is perfect for those seeking an allergy-free experience.

The elastic bands around the leg and waist are covered so only cotton fabric touches your skin. You can kiss irritating hives goodbye. Afterall, hives are for bees, not your skin.

Chemical-free and synthetic-free, this all-organic panty comes in a flattering bikini design with a contoured high cut. You won’t feel like you’re wearing granny panties in this number.

The downside is that the size runs small. Prevent this from being an issue by going up a size.

Hesta Women's Organic Cotton Underwear

Pro: Quality craftmanship.
Con: Very thick.

Covered elastic: Hesta’s panties are made of 95% organic certified cotton. It meets the global organic textile standard.

Although it has spandex, it is in a tiny amount - just 5%. You’ll enjoy the touch of the silky smooth fabric on your delicate skin. The fit is divine.

This comfortable panty comes in all-natural colors. No harmful dyes or bleaches were used in making this underwear.

The downside is that you have to be careful when washing it. This underwear has the tendency to shrink a good bit after being washed.

You can avoid problems with the laundering process by putting the panty in a zip-up delicates bag and tossing it in the washer on the delicate setting. Hang it to dry.

Pact Women's Organic Cotton Lace Hipster Panties

Pro: Smooth flat waistband.
Con: Large leg opening.

Tagless: Pact’s organic hipster panties are 95% cotton and 5% elastane. There’s no latex in this allergy-free cutie.

The material is very soft and it offers moderate back coverage. The shrink resistant fabric leaves you with no surprises when you take it out of the washing machine.

The fit is lovely. It sits on the low side. This panty hugs the cheeks, covers the booty, and stays in place. Plus, it looks adorable and a little sexy.

Although it feels snug, it isn’t too tight. Also, it doesn’t ride up, bulge under the clothes, or give wedgies.

However, the lace may stretch. Prevent this from being a problem by being gentle with it. Either hand wash the panty or put it on the gentle cycle and let it air dry.

Only Hearts Women's Organic Cotton Bikini

Pro: 100% organic supima cotton.
Con: Elastic stretches.

Breathable: Only Hearts made a well-constructed organic cotton bikini that features a narrow elastic for added comfort. It has a lightweight feel.

The bikini sits low on the hips. It doesn’t ride up and fits as expected. This jewel is super soft, comfortable, and breathable. Plus, it’s durable.

Even after months and months of use, it will still feel like new with no signs of wear. The downside is that the underwear isn’t tagless. Keep this from being a problem by removing the tag if it causes irritation.

Ecoland Women's Organic Cotton Hipster

Pro: Thick chick friendly.
Con: Tight stitching.

No binding: Ecoland’s organic hipster is made of 95% certified organic cotton and 5% spandex. The covered elastic on the waistband and leg opening provide added comfort for sensitive skin.

It is constructed to sit low on the waist. The cotton is soft. Plus, the design is attractive and the crotch doesn't cut in but covers well. Another perk is that the elastic doesn't bind.

The downside is that the elastic doesn’t have much stretch. Stop this from being an issue by going up a size so you don’t feel constricted.

Danish Endurance Organic Cotton Stretch Boxershorts

Pro: Comfort waistband.
Con: No front fly.

Tagless: Danish Endurance trunks are made of high-quality organic cotton. They are OEKO-TEX standard 100 certified which means they are free from harmful substances.

The comfortable organic cotton blend will keep you cool and fuss-free all day. Plus, the soft, tag-free elastic waistband prevents any irritations and ensures a nice, smooth feeling on your skin.

The quality is excellent. On the other hand, this trunk runs small. Stop this from being a problem by going up a size. 

Cottonique Men's Latex-Free 100% Organic Cotton Drawstring Boxer

Pro: Fly opening.
Con: Button may come off.

100% organic cotton: Cottonique created a super soft, cotton boxer that is completely free of latex and spandex. Not an inch of your skin will come into contact with harsh material.

The fabric is free from chemicals and contamination. As a result, air passes more effectively through the boxers keeping you cool and comfy all day. A loose-fit leg opening allows for easy movement.

Yet, the drawstrings tend to hang out in front of your pants or shorts and can sometimes be seen. Solve this issue by making sure that your shirts come down to at least your pockets.

Pact Men's Organic Cotton Knit Boxers

Pro: No binding.
Con: Not big man friendly.

Shrink resistant: Pact’s organic boxers meet the global organic textile standard. This comfortable undy is made with super soft 95% organic cotton.

It offers a relaxed fit and sits low on the waist. The no-roll, smooth flat waistband and extended legroom ensure full coverage.

You won’t have to worry about this undy feeling either too tight or too loose around the waist. Plus, it doesn’t ride up.

On the other hand, this undy’s fly construction involves a button which can feel awkward. Prevent this from being an issue by only wearing it around the house at first to get used to it.

Ilovebad Organics Boxer Briefs

Pro: Hypoallergenic.
Con: Not 95% cotton.

No latex or spandex: This boxer brief is mostly organic cotton but it does include hemp. Hemp is a natural fabric and shouldn’t irritate sensitive skin. There’s 28% hemp and 64% cotton in the undy.

Sustainably sourced, organic hemp and cotton fibers are naturally resistant to foreign irritants and allergens that easily become trapped in lower-quality materials.  It’s soft, light, and durable.

It delivers maximum comfort and feels luxe. Plus, it doesn’t feel restrictive. It keeps you cool all day long.

On the flip side, the non-elastic band may give out. Stop that from being an issue by buying a backup pair of this underwear.

Cottonique Men's Elasticized Loose Boxer Shorts

Pro: Great quality.
Con: Elastic may be tight on some.

True to size: Made from super soft 100% organic cotton, Cottonique’s boxer shorts are chemical-free and synthetic-free. It is also free of latex and spandex.

Perfect for sensitive skin, it is also textile dye-free and resin-free. Plus, it’s very comfortable. There’s no noticeable shrinkage after multiple rounds in the washer.

This dye-free underwear is great for men with sensitivities to chemicals. On the flip side, this undy only comes in white. If this is a concern, make sure to alternate wearing them with other brands so you don’t get bored.

Best Underwear for Sensitive Skin: Buying Guide

The best underwear for sensitive skin has to be irritant-free. Opting for soft, organic cotton underwear with low impact dyes can help you avoid triggering those annoying allergic reactions. Here’s a break down of the features your underwear needs to have so you can relax in style and comfort.

Softest Underwear for Sensitive Skin

Underwear made of very soft fabric will make you feel like you’re not wearing any undergarment at all. It’s one of the features of truly comfortable underwear. Opt for undies that are known for being soft and gentle on sensitive skin. 

Top Choice for Softness: Cottonique Men's Latex-Free 100% Organic Cotton Drawstring Boxer
  • ALLERGY-FREE CONSTRUCTION—We know how wearing tight briefs with elastic waistbands can trigger...
  • FUNCTIONAL FEATURES—These breathable, organic cotton shorts have a roomy relaxed fit, perfect for...
  • ORGANIC QUALITY—Designed to become an elastic-free undershorts with unhindered allergy-free comfort,...

Organic Cotton Underwear for Sensitive Skin

Your sensitive skin needs a fabric that will provide comfort. Avoid wearing undies made of synthetic material. Opt for either 95% or 100% organic cotton.

It will be breathable and far less likely to cause any sort of irritation.

Top Choice for Organic Cotton: Only Hearts Women's Organic Cotton Bikini
  • Made with narrow elastic for added comfort
  • Breathable and lightweight feel

Best Allergy-Free Underwear for Sensitive Skin

Avoid all possible irritants including latex and spandex. You want underwear that is comfortable. Hypoallergenic underwear is a great option.

It’s also a good idea to make sure the leg bands and waistband are covered with cotton fabric. Otherwise, it might irritate your sensitive skin.

Top Choice for Allergy-Free: Cottonique Women's Spandex-Free Bikini Brief
  • ALLERGY-FREE CONSTRUCTION—Most undergarments sold contain some form of latex or Spandex in the elastic...
  • FUNCTIONAL FEATURES—This hypoallergenic piece cuts above the rest with its latex-free elastic on the...
  • ORGANIC QUALITY—From the fabric to waistbands, we made sure to wrap all its features in 100% organic...

Sensitive Skin Underwear FAQ

People with sensitive skin need to be careful with the types of clothing they wear, especially their undergarments. Above we have listed the best underwear for people who have sensitive skin, and below we will answer all your questions about how to choose the best underwear for you! 

What is the best material to look for when choosing underwear for sensitive skin?

Since polyester and spandex are synthetic materials that can easily bother or cause serious discomfort to anybody with sensitive skin, you should be leaning more towards cotton underwear. 

However, regular cotton might be okay for touching your skin, but the moisture and wetness it can hold can cause a lot of other issues. So what material does work best for sensitive skin types? 

The answer is a breathable material or fabric, like organic cotton that doesn’t contain any irritants. This will be your best solution if you suffer from sensitive skin.

Tip: Organic underwear is ideal for people with sensitive skin. It’s breathable and gives you more comfort than any other material. 

What style of underwear is best for people with sensitive skin? 

If you want to know what type of style of underwear you should be looking for when you have sensitive skin, then you will be surprised at the variety of choices you can choose from. 

The material is a more crucial factor than the style, but some kinds can bother certain people. Women can choose from bikini, briefs, mid-brief, seamless, G-string, etc. However, if you have sensitive skin, you will want to select a style that feels good both on your skin and in your mind.

Plenty of the styles that are offered today are designed for people with sensitive skin. Just be sure to look for ones that are either:

  • 95 to 100% Organic Cotton
  • Latex Free
  • Breathable 
  • Comfortable Waistband

Men should also follow the same guidelines; however, boxers will provide the most airflow. Nowadays, you can even find organic bamboo boxers or ones made with hemp, which help prevent foreign irritants and allergens.  

Can people with sensitive skin wear tight underwear? 

In general, nobody should wear any type of underwear that is too tight or restricts their natural flow of breath. If you didn’t have sensitive skin before, then an elastic waistband that is too tight certainly won’t help you avoid it. 

With that being said, you can wear underwear that has a snug fit and doesn’t move around on your body. There are a lot of choices for ‘fitted’ underwear for people with sensitive skin. However, you always want to make sure that your undergarments are breathable and comfortable. 

Is there a particular way to wash your underwear when you have sensitive skin? 

If you have sensitive skin, you're probably already using a mild detergent that is eco-friendly on all of your clothes. If not, we suggest using a hypoallergenic detergent because they are considered softer and gentler on both your clothes and skin.   

Note: Stay away from any detergents that contain fragrances or artificial chemicals.

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About the author

Idara Hampton

Idara Hampton is a freelance writer at Undywear.com. She also creates valuable content in the legal, health and wellness, and home improvement spaces. When she's not writing, you can find Idara getting lost in a good book or tickling the ivories.