So I just started getting into knitting again, and I went out and bought some basic re-learning equipment: a couple pairs of needles in different sizes, a cable needle, a stitch holder, and (because my practice pieces aren’t really needed to be luxury or anything) a couple skeins of cheap acrylic yarn. This was last weekend.
Starting about Thursday, I notice that I have a rash on the inside of my left and right forearms (where the knitted work rests depending on which needle its mostly on at the moment). It itches like the devil. It’s kind of nasty-looking, red and bumply. And the only thing different in my routine is the knitting. No new detergents, no new fabric softeners, no new bedsheets or shirts.
Could I be allergic to acrylic yarn? I thought synthetic fibers were hypo-allergenic.
I know nothing of synthetic fibers or yarn for that matter, but maybe you are allergic to the dye. Sorry I am no help but that was the first thing I thought of.
It may be due to the sharpness and/or stiffness of the fiber ends. Acrylic fibers are cut during the making of the yarn. These cut ends do not get polished or frayed, as is the case with (most) natural fibers, leaving sharp edges. The fuzzier the yarn, the more exposed ends. This effect is especially noticeable with cheap worsted weight yarn. The individual fibers have a greater cross section than those used for sport weight and baby yarn, and so are usually stiffer and pricklier.
The skin on the inner forearm is fairly delicate, especially compared to that on the hands. I suggest you try a different brand or type of yarn.
What peri said. My older son’s dermatologist recommended keeping anything made of acrylic far away from sensitive skin (both boys have/had atopic eczema) because the fibers are so sharp and irritating.
Thanks, everyone! I’m going to go pick up some better-quality (non-acrylic) yarn today. In the meantime, last night I was wearing a long-sleeve dress shirt over my t-shirt while I was knitting. Seems to work.
IANAD, but I have a mild skin condition myself. As my doctor explained it to me, the answer to any question starting with “is it possible to be allergic to…” is yes. Some substances have much more people allergic to them than others, of course, but you can name just about anything and you’ll find that someone, somewhere in the world is allergic to it.
