Fading in clothes

[LVL]

I have significant fading in collars of shirts from normal laundry.  I am the only one in our family of four (the other three members are female) who faces this.  All of our laundry is done in the same manner.  This fading also occurs in shirts taken to our dry cleaning supplier to be laundered.  I am convinced that this fading in the collars of my shorts does not occur because of how the laundry is done, but by something that exists in my skin.  I have recently had complete blood work done and asked my family physician to look for a cause.  Nothing was found.  I am at a loss for this and am spending more money on shirts than I would like.  Many times, my shirt is ruined after one wearing and washing as the collar is immediately ruined.  Sometimes, significant fading occurs after several washings.  Have you seen this condition before?  Any suggestions for remedy or, at least, diagnosis?

Thank you.

Larry Van Loh

[MeToo61]

A related discussion, Clothes fade was started.

[Alan Rockoff, MD]

I'm afraid I can't shed any light on your question.  There is a rare condition in which people have colored sweat, but that's not what you're describing.  I haven't seen or heard about such cases, nor can I think of a medical explanation.

I think it's at least worth trying a different dry cleaner.

Sorry I can't be of help.

Dr. Rockoff

[dkaz]

Larry,
Have you ruled out the possibilty of your cologne, astringent or even a soap (acne med lotion?) has a high alcohol or acidic property? My son was using a product that not only changed his collars but his pillow cases as well. The other thing you could consider is that your PH is out of whack. What about watch bands? Does your skin turn dark around rings or chains around your neck? Are you drinking more acidic drinks and sweating more than usual? Taking any supplements, vitamins or herbal? Do you have a tin like taste in your mouth? Very curious about this? Thanks for your post!