In a new class action lawsuit, dozens of women are claiming that Victoria’s Secret bras have given them painful, unsightly rashes. One of the plaintiffs, Roberta Ritter of
Formaldehyde is considered a probable human carcinogen by the EPA and is also a known allergen. Though people often associate the chemical with embalmed specimens in jars, it is actually found in many everyday products.
“Formaldehyde is the big thing these days,” says dermatologist Susan Tillman Elliott, consulting physician to the Center for Laser Surgery in
Rashes caused by formaldehyde in clothing usually occur in high friction areas like the inner thighs (“trouser dermatitis”) and could very likely appear underneath the tight underwire of bras. Formaldehyde allergies can be confirmed by a patch test. Elliott says the chemical is usually removed from clothing after a few washings
Victoria’s Secret has stated that they do not use formaldehyde in their bras. Some countries have banned the use of formaldehyde in textiles, but it is still legal in the
Granted, there are other ways bras could cause a rash, from underwire irritation to a condition known as Rubber Accelerator Bleach Syndrome, suggests Elliot. Rubber accelerators are chemicals used in the manufacturing of rubber, and many people, such as surgeons and nurses who wear rubber gloves, can develop an allergy from frequent exposure. Washing the rubber products only makes the reaction worse: “If you wash rubber-containing things with any kind of bleach, you change the component of the rubber,” says Elliott. “Folks can use the underwear fine at first, and then they wash it and the chemical change happens.”
Despite the complaints and threatened legal action, Victoria’s Secret is still keeping the bras on its shelves. Maybe they’ll finally start paying attention after Heidi Klum gets a rash—or maybe they’ll just airbrush it out.
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Image: flickr / angel with horns
November 12th, 2008 at 7:41 pm
[...] Why Are Victoria’s Secret Bras Causing Skin Rashes? [Discover] [...]
November 12th, 2008 at 8:13 pm
[...] In a new class action lawsuit, dozens of women are claiming that Victoria’s Secret bras have given them painful, unsightly rashes. [...]
November 14th, 2008 at 3:26 am
Hi my name is Nehy Reyes and i have the same rash and itch problem and the problem started right after i bought my last bra “ANGEL” by Victoria Secret and is giving me a bad skin rash too, i have no idea why i got this rash until i read and listen on the news that other women had the same problem as i.
Sincerely.
Nehy Reyes
ladynehy@yahoo.com
Hollywood,Florida
November 15th, 2008 at 1:29 pm
I have been suffering from severe rashes caused by Victoria Secret bras. I suspected there was something in the fabric. Keep me posted on the class action suite.
November 15th, 2008 at 11:24 pm
I am also suffering from the severe rash caused by the Very Sexy Bra Line. I would like to me notified about the class action suite. My daughter bought this bra as a gift, she paid $60 for it.
November 16th, 2008 at 11:01 pm
I don’t understand some thoughts that run through everyones mind, I get it every one is money hungry and that is a way of life. Secret Embrace has been out for maybe two years and all of a sudden you start itching. Why not two years ago when the bra came out, why now, when the economy gets bad. OOhh you need a cash cow, no savings. I know what I am allergic to and what I am not allergic to. I used a soap that smelled really good, felt soft when I put it on suppose to be good for your skin and it broke me out. Shit happens and I am smart enough to stop using the soap. I met someone who told me they had a rash under their arms(armpits) from a bra. Stupid is what I wanted to call her, why is her bra under her arm and not on her boobs.
November 17th, 2008 at 8:51 pm
I also have had this issue for over two years…been to doctors and dermotalogists. My doctor gave me powder to try and relieve. Didn’t work, went to a dermotalogist over a year ago who told me to stand in front of a fan before dressing. Recently went to a new dermotalogists and we are trying something else. On next visit I plan to take this article. I am going to buy some new bras. All I have is VS bras and a fortune in them.
November 18th, 2008 at 4:45 pm
To the Fed up Jones lady, I actually did have this rash about 1 1/2 -2yrs ago, and saw my doctor twice for it and also had other tests scheduled, until I stopped wearing this bra, now I never thought anything about it, and therefore had never known that it was happening to other people, I am not looking to sue like some people, but these people do deserve to at least be reimbursed for missed work and doctor’s appointments!! I am glad to know that something is being done, even it V.S. didn’t know about something wrong in the fabric. My rash was everywhere my bra sat, including on my back!!
November 19th, 2008 at 1:52 pm
I’m having the same problem! Over the past few weeks one of my nipples became red, swollen, itchy & painful in spots. When I started self-medicating with Neosporin & covering the area with a bandaid, the area begin to get better; without the bandaid the flare up begins again. I only buy my bras from Victoria’s Secret & the 2 being complained about have become my favorites, so I wear them more than my others. I went to my doctor yesterday & she is having me try some steroid cream for “dermatitis” to see if it takes care of the problem.
I would love to know how to become part of this lawsuit if it ever makes it that far. I don’t feel like rubbing cream on my breasts 3 times a day for the rest of my life or wearing a bandaid to cover my nipples inside my bra, just because I choose to wear Victoria’s Secret. Their bras are the best, but the least they could do is pull these off the shelves or reformulate the fabric!!1
November 19th, 2008 at 2:59 pm
I’ve also had an itchy rash past year since bought Barely There bras from J. C. Penney, and have seen Dr. for and got different ointments to try. Since seeing about Victoria Secret Bras, have quit wearing those bras (all same style, made in Indonesia). My rash is greatly improving since quit wearing those bras. Shame, because I really liked them otherwise. Any long term affects possible from this?
November 21st, 2008 at 9:05 pm
I think the rubber accelerator point is interesting because people wash bras with bleach often. I am surprised that US hasn’t banned formaldehyde in clothing since other countries have given that it’s both a carcinogen as well as a cause for allergic contact dermatitis.
Deb
Skin Rash Info
http://www.itchyskinrash.net
November 22nd, 2008 at 8:20 pm
I also bought a bra from Victoria’s Secret #o8385732 BBV Padded UW. I purchased the bra at Chapel Hill Mall in Colorado Springs. I broke out into a rash on my back and shoulders.Cannot get rid of it. I’ve had it for about a month now.If theres anything I need to do keep me informed;with the law-suit. Thank you! When I returned the bra I had no problem they gave me my $48.33 back no problem;no hassle. It was amazing no one was aware of the rash. The manager said I am the only one that returned the bra. My husband happened to see this on abc news.
November 25th, 2008 at 4:18 am
I have been experiencing painful rashes towards the front of my armpit. Well I always wear this certain bra from victoria secret. so i stopped wearing it for a couple weeks and wore just my other bras which some were VS bras as well and the rash cleared up. So I thought it was ajust a coincidence so i put the bra on again…i got the rash once more in the same spot. It only happens with this one VS bra..none of the others i have fron there bother me just that one
November 25th, 2008 at 6:32 pm
I feel vindicated hearing about other women having the same/similar problems. I have been suffering from a ugly rash under my right breast for 1 1/2 yrs. I have seen doctors who recommend I make sure my skin is dry after showering and use Neosporin, etc. before I put on my bra. I have a considerable investment in Vicotria Secret bras. I have 4 Angel bras, 2 Embrase, 1 Very Sexy, 10 IPEX bras. I would like to know how to get involved with the lawsuit.
December 5th, 2008 at 12:29 am
I have worn VS bras for many years but I bought several new bras in April 2008. In May, I started to experience a rash that was concentrated around the bra area but also had expanded to various other parts of my body. I went to several doctors only to be put on different medications and creams. The meds would help but it had many other side effects so I started with a dermatologist and an allergist. Medications changed but nothing really made it go away. It has been extremely uncomfortable and embarrassing at times because of the itchiness. Not to mention a woman doesn’t look very sexy with red, blotchy sometimes scabby breasts. It was great to hear this story.
December 10th, 2008 at 5:12 pm
This is to “Fed Up Jones.”
I am sorry that you are so disgusted with people being money hungry…but, we that have a rash, have a legitimate complaint. Here’s my story:
I developed dime-sized lesions on my breasts and traveling around my back. The burning and itching was so terrible, I could barely stand it. After figuring out it was in the exact shape of my bra, I stopped wearing it. Then I decided to contact the Victoria’s Secret company myself. I wanted them to warn others of this possible reaction.
After a few days, several reps from VS called me and took my info. They requested I send the bra to them for testing. I thought better than just handing it over for them to possibly destroy it. Then the claims specialist informed me that it was my skin’s fault and none of their own. Later, after some digging of my own, I see that this has been brought to their attention, on several occasions.
I gave them every opportunity to right the wrong. They saw fit to blame the victim. Am I wrong to want them to own up and stop the sale of this harmful product?
I believe that the only way they are actually going to listen, is if we speak as loud as we can, collectively.
And, I am not rid of the disgusting scarring on my breasts and around my torso…they need to understand that this is not acceptable for me to have to live like this for the rest of my life…through no fault of my own.
December 18th, 2008 at 11:18 am
I have had problems with lesions on my breast for about a year. I like so many others did not know what to think or what to do. I was wearing a mixture of brand name bras so I did not think of the bra as being the culprit. I first thought of my skin care, then of my deodorant, than my laundry detergent and on and on. It was insane. I had 2 nickel size boils on my breast most of the time and would often have fever on them. I use natural products so I was putting witch hazel, non talc powder, and washing with unscented all natural soap. This would help to clear the problem but as soon as I would get rid of one spot another would appear. I thought that maybe that the laundry detergent had gotten stuck in the fabric of the bras so I went out and bought several fruit of the loom bras and hand washed them in natural soap. the lesions started clearing – after about a month they were all gone. I can not tell you of the problems this caused but I will abbreviate. My mother in law has Alzheimer’s and we were trying to get her help, we were going through a business restructure, my youngest was leaving home and all I could think about was the pain of these boil on both of my breast. Now very interesting I was wearing several different bras by VS body by Victoria being the newest. So after this story broke I took all of VS bras and put them in a bag and stored them as I am extremely angry if they knew about this and did not warn the public. Well I missed one (must have been in the laundry with other hand washables) and accidentally wore it and when I took it off guess what…..big boil on my breast. I am getting photos of the scars and the new boil and sending it to VS. I have spent a fortune on their crapy product and they should pay me back. What is so infuriating is the denial. Women will keep wearing this bra. They should be getting a group together to find the problem and doing something about it. In this crazy world it doesn’t take much to ruin an effort someone is making to do a certain job or better themselves. Large boils that have fever on your breast thinking you may have cancer or some other horrible problem is certainly one of the things that can change the path of your life in hard times.
December 19th, 2008 at 3:47 pm
The other thing that can be causing the rash is the actual metal underwire in the bra. This has specifically happened to me and other women. So, at this point I am taking the wire underwires out and replacing them with plastic underwire; which by the way, are very very hard to find. I finally found an internet source in Canada called “Bra-makers Supply.”
The problem with the metal underwires is that even though they are covered by fabric the metal alloy will still leach when we sweat. Plus, there is the problem that the metal alloy is also being absorbed into the body. Nowadays as we have seen, most of our clothing is manufactured in China or items that go into the clothing and the regulations are not the same there. So, who knows what is actually in the metal?! That coupled with the formaldehyde and any other chemicals creates a very real toxic environment for our bodies. Not good!
I hope this information can help some others, since I was just perplexed as to the reactions I was getting.
December 22nd, 2008 at 8:47 pm
I own a Bra Fitting boutique in Melbourne, Florida. http://laboutiquedelingerie.com. We carry Anita Bras made in Germany. They are Formaldehyde free. Please read the excerpt from thier website.
Anita Bras
Anita Dr. Helbig GmbH is a German firm founded by Ernst Max Helbig in 1886, who is the great grandfather of the present proprietor Georg Weber-Unger. Anita is noted for the manufacturing of exquisite women’s lingerie, swimwear, maternity garments, and nursing bras. A specialist supplier of foundation garments, swimwear and accessories, is a growing company with a workforce of approx. 1,150 world-wide and an annual turnover of approx. 65 million euros. Its own production sites are located in Germany, Austria, Portugal, the Czech Republic and Far East. For women who are concerned about skin irritants, or who experience chemical sensitivities, this brand will answer their needs for beautiful and irritant-free lingerie, from the thread through to the lace.
The company places great emphasis on ecological considerations so that customers can enjoy the Anita products without concerns. Particular attention is shown to constructing products from fabrics that are irritant-free. Products with a pH-value which correspond to that of skin have been awarded the seal of the International Association for Research and Testing in the field of Textile Ecology (Oeko-Tex), Standard 100. These ecologically sound clothing products are free from carcinogenic dyes, azo dyes, and allergenic dyes; pesticides and chlorated phenols; formaldehyde; heavy metals; organic chlorine compounds and biocides. Anita brings purity of product in an eco-friendly way!
Why would you wear a bra with harmful chemicals in it when there are ones made that do not contain them?
Thank you,
Valerie Lammon
December 27th, 2008 at 7:44 pm
I too had this rash-noticed it a few months ago and thought that I had shingles.(Based on the symptoms that i heard of shingles, ie itchy, burning, red area under both breasts) my friend who had shingles looked at it and said that it is not shingles. that very night I saw pictures onCNN about the rash from VS Bras. I had 10 of the body by victoria full coverage uplift and realized that every time I wore one I got the rash and it looked the same. I contacted VS in Orlando and they advised me to bring them back and they gave me a full cash refund for the bras even though I had them a while and i had no receipt. I did keep 2 to have tested for the chemical substance. Dr. said that it is basically a chemical burn type reaction. Keep me posted.
thank you
Maureen
January 2nd, 2009 at 11:16 am
I agree with fed up jones . really, lets sue everyone. My kids are fruitous and lactose intolerant. I think I should sue the milk and friut companies because their product would make my teens sick. Better yet, I am allergic to animals maybe they should all be put down. What about enviromental? Pollen and rag weed cause people severe reactions. Lets burn down the woods? Where do you people stop. Get a life, the bra bothers you, stop wearing the darn thing? At least you can avoid what ails you. Alot of people with REAL health problems cant
January 2nd, 2009 at 11:29 am
I just heard from my friend about this lawsuit. I too have had a rash since the summer, I have went to the dermtologist, an allergist and they didn’t know what it was and have tried to treat it. I also had a rash for years on my inner thighs, went to several doctors and basically just have to live with it. I buy nothing but VS bras but will stop and throw out all the money I have spent!
January 7th, 2009 at 8:24 pm
This is really crazy…I too have developed a rash, where the rubber on the sides, contacts my skin. The rash has become very uncomfortable and I can only experience relief by not wearing the bra, washing the area with Cetaphil anti-bacterial soap, and cocoa butter lotion to soothe and return skin to normal! How is this? I love Vicky’s and hope that they make whatever necessary changes soon, as I would hate to discontinue purchasing from them. We’ll see…!
January 13th, 2009 at 12:41 pm
This is insane! I bought my first bra from Victoria’s Secret the other day…The very sexy push up waS recommended…so I bought it and after the first day I wore it i had a rash on my shoulders from where the straps were. So I switched to the clear plastic straps the next day to see if it made a difference…and they too gave me a rash on my shoulers! It’s very painful. I already took the tags off…but I’m going to bring it back with my receipt and complained…and show them my shoulders!
January 14th, 2009 at 2:19 pm
I am so glad I found this, I thought I was going crazy! I have several colors of the very sexy and angels bras. A couple of months ago, one of my nipples got so swollen and red that the skin around it cracked and I spent 2 months trying to heal it with Neosporin! I thought I had breast cancer or something because a friend told me that could be one of the symptoms but my doctor said I was fine. I’m definitely going to have to buy some new bras but it’s upsetting because VS bras are around $50 and I have a ton of them!
January 18th, 2009 at 1:46 pm
I have just submitted a complaint to Chico’s telling them of these exact symptoms, my bras were made in China. I bought 6 of them, only wearing 3 to date. I have never had a rash before, my skin is not sensitive to anything and was baffled. I happened to be getting a facial and happened to mention it to the girl. She had the same experience with the VS bras!! And knows of 4 other cases.
So BEWARE!!!
And….isn’t nice to be able to share this information. I am not looking for money, just a reason, and to be able to return the unwanted bras. And….Chico told me to return all and I will get my money back.
I will be calling my doctor’s office tomorrow, hoping to get the hydrocortizone cream I will need to clear it up.
January 19th, 2009 at 9:58 am
I too have had this experience. I bought a DKNY bra about 6 months ago at a Macy’s Department store in here in Florida. After the first wearing, this painful and itchy red rash developed under both breasts only took about 15 min of wearing. Concerned, I washed the bra a couple times before trying to wear again. After several washes I attempted to wear the under garment and uncomfortably had the same results. I had no idea others were having this same problem. I would also like to know how to get involved with the lawsuit.
January 27th, 2009 at 1:43 am
I have 2 differant victoria sectret bra’s and could never figure out what was wrong with my breast. at one point I contacted my plastic surgent thinking I had leaking implants and maybe that was causing the pain. I have blisters that look like I have been sitting in the sun for hours! do not buy these bra’s!!!
January 28th, 2009 at 12:38 pm
In the last few months I’ve been very irritated around my breasts, at first I thought it was my medication, or even me gaining more weight, just recently I heard over the news of the lawsuit, that when I put two ands two together and realized all the bra I have are from Victoria Secert and especially my two new one have been causing this awful irritations around the bottom part of my breast, they are red, itchy, have some hives and have left horrible scaring and the doctors cant prescribe anything. *tears* it’s really upsetting cause these BRA are made for women to be and feel sexy and sexy is far from what I feel.
January 30th, 2009 at 5:40 am
it is not due the victoria bars, I think it is due to some other factors
February 3rd, 2009 at 1:23 pm
I suffer from very serious allergies, environmental AND foods. The list of my serious allergies is way too long to list, suffice to say I carry epi’s with me at all times. I cannot use any lotion or body wash on my skin. If a baby drools on my skin after drinking formula/nursing, I get a rash. I cannot wear any form of wool, mohair, etc., or I will get a rash. I cannot take TYLENOL, because it contains corn, and will make me very ill… and the list goes on and on. The point to this is that I KNOW if something breaks me out/causes any form of reaction I should not use/ingest/wear that certain something again. Interestingly enough, I DO wear Victoria’s secret bras. Also interestingly enough, I have never suffered a rash or any other reaction from the materials used in these bras. After purchasing, I immediately wash and rinse several times BEFORE wearing. I then wash all of my bras weekly, just to be careful. If, at any time I were to consistently break out after wearing one of my Victoria’s Secret bras, being sure I wasn’t reacting to a chemical in laundry detergent, etc, I would make the choice to NOT WEAR THAT PARTICULAR BRA EVER AGAIN. No matter how pretty it was, or how much it was liked. Would I take it back? Definitely. And exchange it for something different. I would NOT, however, sue the company because I happened to have an allergic reaction to the product, any more than I would sue any other company for using corn as a filler in their products. It isn’t THEIR fault I happen to be severely allergic to corn, now is it? It’s called reality: some people have allergies, to one degree or another. If the allergens are avoided when discovered, life is much simpler. Screaming ‘lawsuit!’ because you can’t wear a certain Victoria’s Secret bra shows a serious lack of common sense. And greed, come to think of it. Oh, and by the way… the company who makes tylenol isn’t likely to reimburse me for medical bills I acrue after using their product, either:)
February 6th, 2009 at 6:00 am
This is Crazy, for the past month I have been telling my fiance how incredibly itchy i am all the time on my chest , back,shoulders and underarms. For me it is just mild redness/rash and constant itching wich usually ends in me striping out of my shirt and bra for the rest of the evening and frantically smearing lotion on my skin in an attempt to ease the annoyance. I was thinking it was maby dry winter skin (though it has never been a problem before) so we bought a humidifier but it didnt help, i thought stress, or maby even my laundry soap or shower soap had soured, anyways threw it all out bought new but still itching. Ironically I got 8 new bras from victorias secret at christmas (very sexy, same brand and style i have worn for years now with no problems) I will have to go back to my old ones and see if the itching stops. Also just a note, the sales clerk told me that you can NOT wash their bras in the washing machine not even on the delicate or gentle cycle, she said it will cause them to tear (i had one tear in the center and asked her if it was a problem they were seeing and she proceded to tell me the ONLY way it would tear is from the washing machine (funny though i have always hand washed mine) I smiled and walked away knowing she was wrong and purchased 3 more of my favorite bras. I dont understand why for the past 4-5 years i have had no problems with those bras and all of the sudden it seems possible they may be the culprit. Maby the chemical is a problem with certian lots or runs and not all of them. Regardless my problem with the whole thing is VS not stepping up and taking responsibility for a problem that they are aware of that seems to be fairly wide spread. Nothing and noone is going to be perfect but they should do the right thing even if its just on a individule basis, instead of blame shifting. Recall the lots affected just like they did the peanut butter. lord knows at 50.00 bucks a bra and as many as we all purchase you would think they would like to keep a good reputation and client base. Seems like they would rather find an excuse to make it our fault than even entertain the notion that that it might be a defect. Not looking to sue over it just hoping they at least make an attempt to do the right thing with my $550.00 worth of bras purchased over a 3 week period. I alone spend 7 to 8 thousand a year on bras, suits, shoes, ect from Victorias Secret and hope they choose a more proactive approach to future issues or I will be taking my business elsewhere.
February 10th, 2009 at 10:53 am
Does anyone know how to get on board with the class action suit? All I wear is these bras and have two major rashes under both arms. Ironically, I purchased the bras at Macy’s because the gal at Macy’s said they were exact same manufacturer as the same bra at V.S.
February 14th, 2009 at 8:30 pm
I had use victoria secret bra for the last 2 or 3 years. i feel very comfortable with it. I had severe rashes but i never thought that is was the bra. nothing major. i just take some benadryl. I always wash the clothes that i buy before wearing it. I sspend a lot of money at Victoria Secret. I buy make-up,bra,panties,pijamas. I just hope the that victoria secret they choose a more proactive approach to future issues.
February 15th, 2009 at 11:17 pm
To all of the people who feel this is a rediculous lawsuit I would like you to walk one day in my shoes. I never owned a victoria secret bra unti 2007. I treated myself to 2 very expensive bras that have now dis -figured me for life. I can no longer wear a shirt that may show a little cleavage because the scarring from the rash has now traveled towards my neck. I can no longer wear a bathingsuit in the summer because i look like i have skin disease. I was told by my doctor that this will never reverse and for the rest of my life i will suffer flareups. Its a fungis she said. Athletes foot is a fungis how would you like that on your breasts? Lets see I have been wearing bras since i was 12 and never had this issue. I am not allergic to many things at all but you better believe being exposed to any degree of poison can hurt you. Basically I was being poisoned slowly over the course of two years.I never had asthma but all of a sudden I couldnt breathe and needed to rely on an inhaler. I kept thinking it was the soap i was using or maybe dry skin or maybe nerves or stress. Talk about affecting your sex life the thought of my husband touching my breasts was painful. I would lay on my bed crying from the burning that the slightest touch of my tee shirt would create so much pain. So to all the negative people out there who think I am wrong for holding this company accountable close your mouths because i would not wish this upon anyone but i may want to wish it upon you. And furthermore to all the people out there who feel this is an attempt at gaining some sort of restitution wake up! its a class action suit. What do I stand to get $5 or $10 a month if that. Or maybe even nothing at all. The only gain I definately will recieve is living like this for the rest of my life.
February 20th, 2009 at 4:00 pm
If a shoe was crippling people you would expect the maker to be responsible. Why is it any different with a bra? I have had breathing issue and heart palpitations. I have been told that rashes are “normal” with heavy breasts. I never had any rashes like this before I wore the bras, and my breast are actually smaller than they used to be. Yes it does ruin your sex life to have a stinky rash, but it has also effected my work. I have been too sick to work and often my husband has taken time off to take care of me. I have never had allergic reactions to any clothing. Yes, I do wash everything before it is worn. I have 2 daughters and a sister that wore the bras and had no reaction. They have thrown their Victoria Secret bras away and will no longer shop there. I have 8 of the bras @ $44 or more each, at the VERY least I expect to be reimbursed and I will never buy another one of their products or gift cards.
February 21st, 2009 at 4:29 pm
I have been wearing VS bras for years. I bought a new style. It had lace. I thought the iching I experenced was from the lace. WRONG! I just bought a new Body by Victoria like I had in the past and Yep, a rash. I talked to a manager at the store and she said bring it back but never heard of any problems. I have made copies of this site for her. I hope they do not continue to be in denial. I don’t want a lawsuit. I just want my good old bras back. I loved them.
March 10th, 2009 at 10:37 am
I have had the same problem with a “barely there” bra (made in thailand) which was purchased at a Kohl’s department store. Wore it and washed it quite a few times but then used a different detergent (bleach alternative) and the rash began. The rash caused hive-like welts in the shape of my bra and insane itchiness which would subside after about 3 days. Tried soaking overnight in water and used dreft for babies to launder 3 more times before wearing. No good – rash again. Was going to throw bra out but decided to look online and relieved to find this site. I do believe its the formaldehyde issue and am not surprised that it isn’t banned in textiles in the US and god knows what other countries are using in textile manufacturing. Not interested in a lawsuit – just want to pass the word – perhaps forward this to some broadcasting companies,local and national, to get the word out.
March 19th, 2009 at 3:24 pm
OH MY GOD………..Thats all i have to say…. I thought it was just me. Right now i just search alergy/bra and saw this. I am really upset. I have spent over $500 in VS stuff. Now alllllllll my bras are VS. I HAVE A SEVERE PAIN/RASH/ITCH almost looks like a burnt thats how bad it is. I am really upset. I would like to sue, any suggestion. I am willing to take pics its right under my breasts on both sides. No wonder.
March 24th, 2009 at 5:15 pm
STOOOOOOOP!!!!!! IF U KNOW WHATS WRONG ALL THAT SHIT. DON’T BUY THOSE BRAAAAAAAS PLEASE.
March 24th, 2009 at 5:16 pm
VICTORIAS SECRET ALREADY GOT YOUR MONEEEEEEEEEEEY. JUST FOR BEEN IGNORANT
March 24th, 2009 at 5:24 pm
I have had the same problem with a “Champion” sports bra (made in USA) which was purchased at a Costco store. Wore it and washed it quite a few times but i never put two and two together until I heard about this on the news. I get hives and rash when I wear this bra but also some others in my relatively new collection of bras. I recently had breast reduction surgery and assumed I was having some post surgical reaction (except that it is three months later and the reactions only started after I started going back to work and wearing my new bras. The sports bras (Champion) were really comfortable but I keep breaking out in hives. I tested it by putting one on for an hour when I had no hives for awhile and sure enough after an hour in the bra I was breaking out again!
March 24th, 2009 at 9:03 pm
I purchased 2 Victoria’s secret bras recently,both made in China. I developed a very itchy red rash on both sides of my breasts right after first wearing them. The rash then spread to my underarms, and then I developed raised hives on my forearms, and red itchy spots all over my back, behind my knees, and on my stomach.
I researched on the net re: hives, which I have never had in my life before. I found the articles re: VS bras and formaldehyde in them causing rashes.
I went to the doctor today and she said it is possible for the rash to spread to other parts of the body, when it started on the breasts from an allergic reaction.
I have also had chest congestion and chest tightness along with the rash.
I sniffed the bras, and the one bra in particular which is the one I have mostly been wearing (Till Now), smelled strongly of chemicals.
I think they should pull these bras from the shelf immediately and not sell any products made in China with formaldehyde, a known carinogern (known to cause cancer) and known allergen.
Unhappy Victoria’s Secret Customer,
Marion
April 11th, 2009 at 12:04 pm
I cant believe it i have had the same rash recurring on my right shoulder went to the doctor and we have been trying several creams to cure it. Mu cousin told me about the several complaints about the victoria secret bras and i did not believe it, until y boyfriend insisted . The rash is ugly and painful and the ost embrassing thing is it leaves a ugly mark that seems to be permanent. i love victoria but if everyone wearing those bras are coming up with the sae systems, the bras should be discontinue.d
April 17th, 2009 at 8:34 pm
I cannot believe I have not heard about this. I have been suffering for about a year and a half. A co worker told me she had a biopsy it was so bad. I teach and am around a bunch of kids , I though I may have picked up some sort of virus. The conversation came up as I took a child to the clinic with possible ringworm. I had gone on spring break and lived in my swimsuit most of the week. I came home and put on a clean VS bra and bam!
What recourse do we have?
April 21st, 2009 at 9:56 pm
I purchased a few Bareley There bras from JC Penny and instantly had the rash. i have never had a rash like this and had several Barely There bras I had already been wearing for a while. As soon as I bought the new ones, the rash was there. It has to be made of something different than from the last time I purchased the same bras. Cortizone cream works but only if I put it on every day and do not wear the bras. In fact, now i can’t wear any bra without the rash flaring up.
May 5th, 2009 at 5:50 pm
I also have had a rash on my breast for the last three months. It never occurred to me that it was my VS bra. That is all I wear. Please let me know if there is any compensation as I will be out right away getting new ones. Thank God for the news.
May 8th, 2009 at 10:55 am
I bought 3 bras from VS a week ago, and wore one yesterday. Last night I had a huge rash all over my chest and stomach. I couldn’t figure out what it was … until I googled and found all this. I’m going to return all 3 today, and they BETTER let me, even though I only have tags for one. I’m not putting up with this crap. I’m getting married next month and I’m jsut happy I didn’t put one on for the first time on my wedding day like I was planning!!!
May 8th, 2009 at 12:48 pm
I’m having the same problem, OMG, I almost thought I had shingles, but the symptoms for that are severe and painful, mine is just a itchy patch along my bra line on my side. I got my bras from Lane Bryant. When I was at VS, they advised me to check at Lane Bryant for want I wanted in larger size, she said the Cacique is VS. Yeah, mine looks like a curling iron burn, it just itches. I just spent like $90 purchasing 3 bras, now I have to where an old bra that doesn’t have any wire cause I’m irritated. This article and your blogs were very comforting in the view that it’s not something as bad a shingles and it’s not just me with this problem.
May 9th, 2009 at 10:52 am
I was diagnosed with brca 1, I had a double masectomy in Sept 08. After a few of my surgeries, my husband I went “Bra shopping” at the end of December. After wearing my new VS bra’s I broke out in a horrific rash, they looked like open sores all over my chest. The sores burned and itched terribly. This was a major set back for me. It affected my healing process. I, like everyone else, was unaware of the the problems everyone was having with the VS bra’s until I read it in the news paper. I bought 6 new bra’s and still have the receipt.
June 2nd, 2009 at 7:52 pm
I want to know what the bra purchased at Lane Bryant with the tag name of CACIQUE Made In China made of to give me such a terrible reaction – red, itching, burning reaction. I have worn this brand prior with no problem. I wore the bra Friday and this is the following Tuesday and since reading what other’s wrote I took pictures of my reaction for documentation.
June 4th, 2009 at 2:10 pm
OMG….I can not believe what I am reading! I have been going crazy for the last week with a rash on my chest and constant itching!! I bought 2 Victoria Secret’s bras about a month ago…that has to be it!?! I don’t know why it took a month for me to have a reaction…but it did! I can’t believe there are this many complaints and…there is NOTHING we can do??? I have been wearing VS bras for years but these 2 new ones MUST be different!
June 6th, 2009 at 11:43 am
I saw this information on TV last fall. I have quite a few bumps under my right breast for the past few months. They inflame after the 2nd time I would wear a dark color bra, not a white one. It doesnt matter if I sweat or not, it still inflames. All of my bras are from VS and I love them. But due to this issue, I’ll have to go back to good old playtex. I have paid a fortune on all of my bra’s since I am a 38DD.
June 6th, 2009 at 7:53 pm
Ok. I have not had this problem on my breats but on my va-jay jay. Every pair of underwear I have are victoria secret. I also wear the pj pants and I have rash all over my legs. I have been dealing with these rashes for almost a year. I have tried everything and couldn’t figure out what the hell was wrong with me!!! I have spent so much money on doctors and medicine for it to go away and it wasn’t!!!!!! I am so glad to come across this website! Now I know!!!! Who the hell else can you go to that doesn’t have all that crazy crap in their products? Thank god VAlerie Lammon posted that website. I am going to try that out. Hope that works out.
July 15th, 2009 at 11:06 am
I am typical vs lover of all clothing but I am furious that these “pricy” garments are causing such medical issues and being overlooked. I have had a rash on and off for over a year now under my arms. I wear the very sexy push up and absolutly love the coverage & cleavage but all that seems to be lost when u lift ur arms up and you have scars from the rash. I expected that this was coming from the bras a mth after I purchased my bras. ( NOTICE I SAID BRAS) They run around 56.00 for one.. ( that is if u have to have a bigger size ) more garment that fucks your skin up. I m pissed about this. I spent all last summer on antibotics & could not enjoy outdoor activities due to the medication i stayed on for mths. I believe that Victoria secret needs to remove the products and reimburse all consumers for their purchases. WE ALL HAVE SUFFERED ENOUGH FROM THE “LUV PINK” wrath.
July 18th, 2009 at 11:06 pm
I only recently purchased 3 bras from vs (as I hate wearing bras anyway) but I have been a customer of theirs for a long time for other products they have. Most recently I started getting an itchy rash on my breasts and the only new change is my bra. I immediately stopped wearing the bra as my husband said the rash was in the same area that the bra touched my skin. It started about one week ago and is finally starting to heal. I am planning on bringing all 3 bras that I purchased back and either ask for a full refund or an exchange. This is a total drag as the bras were comfortable (for a bra). I have now purchased a $10 bra at Walmart and I’ll buy another one there again.
July 24th, 2009 at 3:52 pm
Do you know if VS is refunding customers? I have to bring 3 back as the dermatoligist said that the bra gave me the rash I have. It is awful and very painful.
August 4th, 2009 at 10:51 pm
Yes, VS is offering money back for the bras. The last time I was in contact with them, that is what they offered. I, for one, was not willing to give mine back. The reason: they need to stop selling them until they figure out what is causing this and stop manufacturing them in that manner. I went legal- to try and make them actually do something and not sweep it under the rug.
I do not believe it is formaldehyde, because the bras tested were found to have less ppm of this chemical than is allowed by the government. Many fabrics are treated with some formaldehyde, yet I have never in my life experienced anything from any other clothing.
I have done some research of my own and have found a possible culprit…Rubber Accelerator Bleach Syndrome. It happens after several washings with detergent, as in my case. The rubber starts turning into other compounds and emitting them into your skin. This may also be the reason why not every woman has this reaction; some may be more sensitive to the chemicals emitted by this broken down rubber. I happen to have mild latex reactions. But, in this case, it was a severe reaction. The least VS can do, if this is the case, is put warnings on the advertisements and have them visually attainable to all who are purchasing.
And, for those who may think we are “sue happy,” yes, we can stop wearing the bras, but VS is being negligent in their capitalism. They have known about this for years, and have done nothing to come up with a solution. All they are worried about is the all-mighty dollar. If I would have known about the problem with the bras, before I purchased…do you think I would be a complete moron and put one anywhere near my body? Especially on my breasts? Please refrain from making judgments on people and situations when you are not fully aware of all of the details. We are like you; we work hard, we try to enjoy ourselves on our time off, we raise families and we want to be able to feel secure with the items we purchase (especially when it comes to our health). This is the United States, and people who harm others (especially when they are making money as they are doing it) should be held accountable.
August 6th, 2009 at 10:55 am
I bet it is fermaldahyde in the fabric!
September 5th, 2009 at 9:27 pm
Well I guess it would help if you washed the garments before wearing them, especially underwear, you never know if they are selling (returned, already worn garments) grant it they shouldn’t be reselling them as a safety to their customer but as a consumer you have to be careful………Should they be accountable, yes…..why would you put the lives of your business in danger!
September 6th, 2009 at 10:35 am
9/6/09.
I just bought several VS bras on Friday. I wore the 1st one yesterday and by the end of the day I have a HORRIBLE rash everywhere the bra sits except for the upper straps. I is very painful and I was up most of the night itching. I will be going back to VS 1st thing tomorrow to return them. For me this is a live learn situation….if it is too good to be true it obviously isn’t good at all. They were selling these bras for $12.99 each. (should have known better). I have worn the “Body by Victoria bras for several years and had no problem but instead of paying $48 dollars for it went for the “get several for the price of one” version…bummer!!
I am wondering….has anyone had problems with the Body by Victoria line? You know…if it works…don’t fix it
)
Needless to say I will be heading back to the mall to return these problems right away!!
September 6th, 2009 at 10:37 am
By the way,
to all these people looking for monitary gain that have been itching for 2 years or so….you must have some problem other than the one I am describing because you would have to be brain dead to live with the kind of instant itching and rash that I have for more than a good nights sleep at best! It really is hard to belive that you would go two years or even two days……get a life and quit trying to get rich off of someone else. Yes they need to compensate but only to legit cases.
September 23rd, 2009 at 4:32 pm
Has anyone reading these comments had any rashes from wearing Calvin Klein bras? I bought a new one a few weeks ago, wore it one time, and came home with a rash. I had a similar rash 2 years ago after wearing, with no problem, and then washing 2 Wacaol bras. I think the latter may have been due to the ‘rubber accelerator’ effect…..although I don’t remember using anything with bleach. But, the Calvin Klein bra was brand new! I’ve had no luck getting a response from the company. I just want to find out what else is in this thing! How frustrating…………
October 7th, 2009 at 8:00 pm
IF YOU HAVE NOT EXPERIENCED A RASH FROM WEARING VA BRAS, PLEASE DON’T JUDGE THOSE OF US WHO HAVE THAT ARE TAKING A STAND TO VOICE WHAT HAS HAPPENED TO US! The reason horrible things continue to happen to many innocent unsuspecting people is because others who have been victimized usually sit back & say nothing out of fear that people like you will belittle them & make them feel bad about what has happen to them, and feel even worse for coming forward to speak the truth. Until you have had this experience, you will never understand what if feels like! I spent over $500 on VS bras & have suffered miserably with unbearable itching, burning rashes all over my breast. It was so bad that I was even embarassed to show my husband who was almost in tears when he saw it. He told me that he felt bad & if he was partially to blame because he was with me the day that I bought them & encouraged me to spend the money to get them. For me, it’s not about the money, but moreso the fact that VS should be held accountable for how they are ruining women’s lives! Yes, there are people who are ingnorant & sue happy, but the vast majority of us that end up on these sites, landed here in search of answers, & were relieved to know that there were others out there that could relate to what we were going through. If it wasn’t for the first young lady taking a stand & voicing what happened to her, we’d probably all still be scratching our boobs wondering what in the world is happening to us. So kudos to whoever it was that BRAVE enough to take a stand for all of us that have encountered this problem. I WILL NEVER BUY VS products again, not even a small bottle of perfume!! I REFUSE TO SPEND MY HARD EARNED MONEY WITH A COMPANY THAT CARES NOTHING ABOUT THE WELLBEING OF THEIR CUSTOMERS! I worked for Limited Brands for 8 years & I’m very disappointed to see that their quality & standards have gone from 10 to a whopping 0. LES WEXNER, I EXPECT BETTER FROM YOU!!! YOU HAVE MADE MILLIONS IF NOT BILLIONS OFF OF THE VERY CUSTOMERS YOU ARE ALLOWING TO EXPERIENCE THIS NIGHTMARE!! Why are you continuing to put a band-aid over this problem?? DO SOMETHING TO FIX IT, even if it means closing the doors to every VS store until you have it under control. PEOPLE’S LIVES, HEALTH, & WELL-BEING ARE FAR MORE IMPORTANT THAN YOUR BOTTOM LINE & “BRAND IMAGE”!!!!!
October 20th, 2009 at 7:53 am
I agree with J. I bought 2 VS bras 3 months ago and have been getting painful bumps and rashes on my back from where the straps sit and where the bra does up. It just dawned on me that I was only getting these bumps during and after wearing one of my VS bras and did a google search for “bra cause rash?” and found so many results for VS bras causing rashes. I wont be buying any VS bras again or products for that matter. What a horrible company.
October 28th, 2009 at 10:16 am
I purchased a bra from Cacique and I started to develop a horrible rash on my left breast that itched so bad. I had also noticed how my breasts shrank. I never had a problem before wearing this particular bra.