Due to the significant risk of infection, dermatologists have urged women to refrain from purchasing used trousers and brassieres, regardless of their price or longevity, as these items can lead to fungal infections, scabies, and even hepatitis.

The dermatologists pointed out that people who use such items, particularly without thorough cleaning and pressing, face an increased likelihood of experiencing bacterial infections and skin irritations, as well as various other health issues.

They recognized that the economic conditions in the nation have resulted in a greater inclination towards purchasing second-hand clothes and undergarments, often referred to as ‘Okrika’, because of their lower costs.

The dermatologists recommended that women focus on their well-being and consider purchasing fresh intimate undergarments.

During individual discussions with PUNCH Healthwise, the specialists asserted that although immersing undergarments in hot water, bleach, and disinfectants—practices employed by certain individuals—might offer benefits, there wasn’t sufficient scientific evidence proving these methods rendered them entirely secure.

So far, more than 20 million people in Nigeria have been infected with hepatitis, a virus that causes inflammation of the liver.

Herpes is a viral infection leading to highly transmissible and uncomfortable blisters on the lips and genital area, transmitted via direct skin contact. While this condition can be managed with treatment, it currently cannot be cured.

According to PUNCH Healthwise, financial difficulties have compelled numerous Nigerian women, especially those residing in Lagos, to purchase and use pre-owned undergarments such as bras and panties.

Even though the second-hand market commonly referred to as ‘okrika’ isn’t something new, the heightened interest in purchasing undergarments because of their cost-effectiveness appears to be quite innovative.

Although vendors claim that these undergarments attract more customers, users stated that the primary reason for opting for thrifty options was the high cost of purchasing new underwear.

Nevertheless, the potential health impacts of buying and using these pre-owned trousers and undergarments are not taken into account before, throughout, and following the acquisition process.

A Consultant Dermatologist and Venereologist from the Federal Teaching Hospital in Katsina, Dr. Nafisatu Abdullahi, offered her professional opinion on the issue, emphasizing that it is advisable to steer clear of used intimate apparel, regardless of whether they are domestically produced or imported, because of the potential health hazards involved.

She explained that locally exchanged underwear, exchanged within hours or days, could still contain viable organisms capable of causing disease, especially if not properly washed.

The dermatologist also pointed out that although the ‘okirika’ undergarments sourced from abroad remained with their original owner for an extended period before being used by someone else, the new user could still be vulnerable to fungal infections.

The dermatologist stated, “Using secondhand underwear obtained from neighbors or family members poses various health issues as opposed to using new ones sourced perhaps directly from China. This isn’t due to differing skin tones but rather because of when these items were last worn.”

Some of the negative health effects associated with wearing secondhand underwear involve contracting fungal infections. This occurs because fungi produce spores that can remain viable for weeks or even months, staying inactive until they find suitable conditions to revive and trigger an infection.

She mentioned that the individuals wearing them might contract parasitic infections like scabies and pubic lice.

Abdullahi also pointed out that using unwashed underwear that someone else has recently worn can increase the risk of contracting viral infections like hepatitis or herpes.

“Similarly, those who have worn items recently without adequate cleaning are at risk of bacterial infections such as E.coli and Staphylococcus,” explained the venereologist.

Abdullahi stressed that the most secure choice was for people to use fresh undergarments.

To minimize the risk of negative reactions from secondhand or imported used undergarments, she recommended, “If you receive or purchase gently worn undergarments and notice any obvious stains or detect an unusual odor, it’s best to steer clear of them.”

If wearing sanitary napkins proves feasible, it is advisable and more secure than using regular underwear directly. For pre-owned garments such as clothing, trousers, and bras, it’s ideal to wash them in hot water mixed with bleach or another potent disinfectant capable of eliminating bacteria. Afterward, drying these items under direct sunlight is preferable, ensuring every part including edges and folds are thoroughly pressed.

“If you follow all these steps and still experience rashes, itchiness, or any discomfort, it’s advisable to consult a dermatologist or physician promptly,” the dermatologist advised.

In an interview with PUNCH Healthwise, renowned dermatologist Dr. Olutomidimu Afolabi emphasized that secondhand undergarments have greater exposure to skin contact, thereby heightening the likelihood of infection transmission, which may encompass sexually transmitted diseases as well.

She mentioned that individuals wearing this type of undergarment might be at risk for contracting Hepatitis B and C viruses, which spread via blood exposure, sexual fluids during intercourse, and perspiration.

“People can contract hepatitis from shared clothing. To clarify, we’re not discussing undergarments here. Some individuals believe that washing garments at high temperatures and pressing them with an iron would prevent transmission. However, further research is needed to confirm if this approach actually works. It’s worth noting that many others use such items of clothing and underwear directly without prior cleaning,” explained Afolabi.

The dermatologist recognized that the nation’s financial state could be behind the rise in popularity of both pre-owned and foreign garments. However, they firmly advised against wearing previously owned undergarments due to potential health concerns.

Elaborating more on the effects of using second-hand trousers for women, the dermatologist commented, “If women suffer from candida, which refers to vaginal candidiasis or a vaginal yeast infection, they typically experience white discharge as one symptom. Part of managing this condition involves changing underwear regularly to avoid reinfection. Using these disposable undergarments could potentially lead to infections for anyone who wears them afterward.”

The dermatologist recommended buying and using cheap new undergarments.

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