\nWearing the same pair of underwear for an extended period poses risks beyond just fashion concerns. Licensed skincare specialist Sarah Roberts warns, \u201cMen and women risk skin irritation, rashes, or the worsening of pre-existing conditions such as eczema or psoriasis when they re-wear underwear too often without washing it; this is due to friction and trapped moisture\u201d.\n
For women, the risks extend further due to the anatomy, with a shorter urethra making them more vulnerable to infections. Dr. Archit Aggarwal emphasizes the need for women with heavy menstrual cycles or significant discharge to consider changing underwear more than once a day.\n
\n
Physical activity and climate significantly determine how often you should change your underwear. Dermatologist Dr. Hannah Kopelman advises, \u201cFor those engaged in intense physical activities or who sweat heavily, it\u2019s advisable to get changed more frequently.\u201d \n
Similarly, living in hot and humid climates may necessitate a more-than-once-a-day practice to maintain good hygiene. Men and women face different consequences, with women risking yeast infections, and bacterial vaginosis and men facing the possibility of jock itch if hygiene is not maintained.\n
Men may find some freedom in not changing their underwear every day, according to dermatologists. If minimal sweating occurs, waiting 48 hours before changing is considered acceptable. Dr. Anju Methil points out that men\u2019s looser-fitting styles, like boxers, may allow for slightly longer wear.\n
However, even men are not exempt from risks such as skin irritation and jock itch if underwear is worn repeatedly without changing. Dermatologists suggest making a switch at least once a day to minimize infection risks.\n
\n
Unfortunately, women do not enjoy the same flexibility as men when it comes to changing underwear. The shorter tract connecting the genitals and back passage increases the risk of harmful bacteria.\n
Sarah Roberts emphasizes that women, like men, risk skin irritation, rashes, or the worsening of pre-existing conditions when re-wearing underwear too often. Dr. Archit Aggarwal points out the vulnerabilities women face due to the vulva\u2019s folds and crevices, making them more prone to infections. Women with heavy menstrual cycles or significant discharge may need to change their underwear more than once a day for both bacterial risk and comfort.\n
A June poll found that 47% of people would never wear the same underwear for more than one day at a time, emphasizing the importance people place on maintaining good hygiene.\n
However, the poll also revealed that 36% of Gen Zers sometimes wear the same underwear for 24-plus hours, showcasing a generational difference in habits. The risks associated with prolonged wear, such as bacterial or yeast infections, highlight the importance of balancing hygiene and comfort.\n