Man Contracts Viral Infection from Unwashed Thrifted Clothes

 

For many budget-savvy shoppers, thrift stores are gold mines. Vintage pieces, affordable fashion, and eco-conscious choices what’s not to love? But one TikTok user recently learned that there’s one golden rule you should never ignore when buying secondhand clothes: wash before wear.

A TikToker known as @onenevertwhoo_one has gone viral for all the wrong reasons after revealing in a video that he developed a skin infection after wearing thrifted clothes straight off the rack no wash, no rinse, just style and... regret.

The viral clip shows the young man's face dotted with painful-looking bumps, later diagnosed as molluscum contagiosum a viral skin infection that causes small, raised lesions. While the condition is generally harmless and often resolves on its own, it can be contagious and uncomfortable.

“I didn’t wash them first,” he admitted, attributing the breakout to the unwashed thrifted clothing he wore.

And experts think he may be right.

“Garments especially second-hand or fast fashion items can be treated with chemicals like fabric softeners, anti-mildew agents, or stain-resistant coatings that can irritate the skin,” said Frances Kozen, a senior lecturer in fiber science at Cornell University, in an interview with Self magazine.

The story sparked mixed reactions online. While many viewers flooded the comments with empathy and well-wishes, others were shocked.

“Bro… why wouldn’t you wash it first?” one user asked.

Even dermatologists weighed in. Dr. Charles Puza, a board-certified NYC dermatologist, used the moment to send out a PSA of his own:

“Especially if you’re buying fast fashion from brands like Shein or Temu wash your clothes before putting them on your skin.”

Whether it’s thrifted vintage or brand-new bargain buys, give your clothes a proper wash before wearing them. You might just be saving your skin.