Personally, I do all my sessions without underwear (Ive run three marathons commando). I find it more comfortable (plus, less laundry!). Still, I talked to Elizabeth Hale, a dermatologist in NYC, and Jill Maura Rabin, M.D. professor of obstetrics and gynecology at Hofstra North Shore-LIJ School of Medicine, to see what issues to consider when choosing a pair: All-cotton styles are comfy but not great at wicking away sweat.
On the irritation scale, lace is worst, while a spandex-nyloncotton combo is better.
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Seamless styles will not rub. Stay dry down there to avoid skin infections, like folliculitis, caused by trapped sweat. If you wear underwear, take it off immediately after a workout and shower.
Or at least swap the sweaty pair for cotton, says Hale. If you break out on your butt, try an over-thecounter wash with benzoyl peroxide. Staying dry and clean will also help you avoid bladder and vaginal infections, says Rabin.
