Clothing Issues on Skin: Does anyone have... - Asperger's Support

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Clothing Issues on Skin

8 Replies

Does anyone have any ideas to help me with this? I always have to wear loose clothing that’s like a size bigger because anytime I wear clothing that’s the correct size it feels too tight it’s always touching my back and makes me feel like I’m sweating which I don’t think I am and makes me also feel sticky. And I have the same issue when I’m laying on the couch with a top that’s the correct size and not one that’s bigger. Anyone have any suggestions?

8 Replies
PearCider profile image
PearCider

This is a known issue with ASD. autism.org.uk/about/behavio...

The national autistic society did make some suggestions:

- remove all clothing labels

- turn the clothes inside out so that the seams don't touch you.

- put some material samples in a box to get used to the textures. They didn't say this, but that might also help you decide which materials you preferred.

The burns unit at Morriston hospital, who get involved in cases where peoples' skin feels highly sensitive, advise in completely the reverse direction. They feel that avoiding contact with sensitive skin only makes it more sensitive. They make suggestions like:

- massage with moisturising cream for gradually longer periods

- stoke with different textures, soft at first and getting gradually harder

- immerse part of your body in a material such as a bowl of cotton wool or a bowl of kidney beans.

The idea is to gradually get the skin more used to contact and desensitise it (it's referred to as desensitisation therapy).

wales.nhs.uk/sitesplus/docu...

in reply to PearCider

What do you do with putting too much deodorant on and always smelling to make sure you have enough on and don’t smell?

PearCider profile image
PearCider in reply to

Hmmm don't have a problem with that, though can't decide if I prefer spray or roll-on. Used to use special deodorant soap bars for a while.

nakedphil profile image
nakedphil

The theory of desensing has not worked for me for approx. 70years, it just increases the sensitivity and anxiety. If on your own what is wrong with wearing something comfortable even though it may be the wrong size? I have that if circumstances allow then going naturist is the best move, although I am too mean to turn the heating up in winter.

in reply to nakedphil

I like wearing comfy clothing that’s all I wear.

nakedphil profile image
nakedphil in reply to

best solution seems to be to wear comfortable clothes, even if theoretically wrong size.

Clarrisa profile image
Clarrisa

I wear often my siblings hand me downs. They are already broken in. I also think some of the sporting store clothes brands (sold mainly in outdoor stores) have more room for movement in them. I noticed my mother had a few men’s Pendleton’s, probably for some extra roominess. A last resort type option is taking up sewing, some people really enjoy this as a hobby.

Justdiagnosed profile image
Justdiagnosed

I'm a size 12 (now) but lumpy. I still wear XL shirts -- loose, but not HUGE.

I can't wear sleeves unless that are loose (like bat wings) or t-shirts, can't wear turtlenecks, etc.

There's a lot you can do with loose clothing .... accessorize if you want!! :-)

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