Man Gets Skin Infection from Unwashed Thrifted Clothes — Here’s What Happened
A man ended up with a surprising skin condition after wearing secondhand clothes without washing them first.
Health experts have long warned about the importance of washing new or thrifted clothes before wearing them. Unfortunately, one TikToker learned this the hard way.
Known online as @onenevertwhoo_one, the content creator shared in a viral video that he developed a skin infection called molluscum contagiosum, a viral condition that causes small, raised bumps on the skin. While it looks uncomfortable, the infection is typically harmless and often clears up without medical treatment, according to NeedToKnow.
Though molluscum contagiosum is usually spread through direct skin contact or sexual activity, the TikToker suspects his case came from wearing unwashed thrift store clothing.
His theory isn’t far-fetched. Frances Kozen, a senior lecturer in fiber science at Cornell University, explained to Self magazine that clothes can carry chemicals such as fabric softeners, water-repellent finishes, or anti-mildew treatments — all of which can irritate the skin.
The video, which has attracted millions of views and sparked thousands of comments, received a mix of sympathy and disbelief.
One user wrote, “Hope you get better soon,” while another questioned, “Why didn’t you wash them first?”
Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Charles Puza also weighed in on TikTok, emphasizing that washing clothes is a must — especially when buying from fast-fashion brands like Shein or Temu — due to potential residues and unknown contaminants on the fabric.
And molluscum isn’t the only concern. Experts warn that failing to wash clothes before wearing them could also expose people to ringworm, a contagious fungal infection that causes itchy, scaly skin. According to the Mayo Clinic and CDC, ringworm can spread through contaminated clothing, towels, and bedding.
So next time you snag a deal at a thrift store or online, make sure to throw your new finds in the wash before wearing them — your skin will thank you.
