It might seem blasphemous, coming from a region renowned for its wool, but some of us can’t wear wool because it makes us itch, and itch, and itch. But why is this?
Well, it turns out that the factor that most contributes to itchiness is the diameter of the wool strand. Thicker strands feel itchier and coarser.
The diameter of wool is measured in microns: one micron is one-millionth of a metre. The breed of sheep, as well as living conditions, diet, and age, etc., all contribute to the diameter of the fibres in the fleece and therefore, its itchiness. For example, “lamb’s wool” comes from sheep that are less than eight months of age and typically feels softer and finer than wool from older animals. Merino wool is the finest fibre, with a diameter of 10-15 microns, and many consider it to be the softest and less liable to cause itchiness.
Other factors to consider if you too suffer from wool irritation is where you wear the fibre. The sensitive skin around your neck may not tolerate scratchier wools, but your arms and forehead may do just fine with a rugged Shetland sweater or beanie.
Itchiness may also be caused by:
- Dyes for colouring the yarn
- Chemicals used for processing or added fragrance
- “Leftovers” in wool that was minimally processed, such as bits of hay, twigs, or pollen.
