By Shweta Sharma
New Delhi, April 22 (IANS) Fitness freaks who plan to sweat it out in the hot Indian summer would do well to wear skin friendly fabrics like cotton, say experts. “Cotton is a natural fibre and has less allergic tendencies. It is best suited for people who have sensitive skin and hence are prone to skin irritation,” said Hema Pant, dermatologist, Kaya Skin Clinic, a skincare solutions centre.

Even though cotton is widely available in India and has its advantages, other materials like synthetic, dri-fit and polyester have gradually built a market for themselves.

Ashish Dhir, India representative for the Cotton Council International, said dri-fit is made of polyester treated with moisture absorbing technology.

“Polyester is not known for managing moisture very well and so it is mostly treated to provide moisture absorbing capabilities. Today it is used over cotton as it is cheaper as a raw material and also lightweight,” he said.

Pointing out the disadvantages of such fabrics, Pant said: “These materials trap sweat inside the body. This is not wise for people who have sweat related problems like dermatitis and prickly heat, as excessive perspiration can aggravate the problem”.

Whether it is for competitions or for regular workout routines, athletes and fitness freaks need clothing that keeps them cool and dry.

“Dri-fit material is essentially a poly-micro-fibre which doesn’t cling to the skin and enables it to breathe better. The fabric is designed to soak sweat which leads to better moisture management,” Sanjay Gangopadhyay, marketing director, Nike, a sportswear brand, told IANS.

Gangopadhyay further explained that the apparel made from this fabric is extremely lightweight so that the person wearing it does not carry additional weight.

Fashion designer Charu Parashar said that other fabrics are preferred over cotton due to the perfect fit offered by them.

“While gymming, people look for fabrics which fit them well. Lycra as a fabric gives stretchability, which is loved by health freaks. Hardly anyone wears lose fitting clothes while exercising,” she said.

Fashion designer Bobby Grover seconded Parashar. He said: “Such fabrics definitely offer better fitting and I would wear a synthetic track pant with a cotton T-shirt while exercising.”