Recent market insights show that polylactic acid (PLA) fabric has experienced remarkable growth in the underwear sector over the past three years. Among various innovative materials, PLA fabric stands out as the fastest-growing category, reflecting its strong market acceptance and rising consumer demand.
A report from the Bioplastics Research Institute highlights that a newly released White Paper on Safe Underwear Selection has recognized PLA fabric for its outstanding advantages in health protection, comfort, and sustainability. PLA has been listed as a recommended material and has become one of the most notable emerging options in modern underwear.
Ⅰ.A Shift From Cotton Dominance to Functional Innovation
According to the white paper, the underwear market is transitioning from rapid expansion to a new phase focused on quality and innovation. Sales data from 2023–2025 indicate that materials combining technological performance with natural origins—such as PLA, Lyocell, and mulberry silk—are gaining rapid consumer acceptance. Their growth rates significantly exceed those of traditional cotton fabrics.
Consumers are moving away from the long-established preference for pure cotton and increasingly choosing innovative fabrics offering multiple functions, aligning with the modern lifestyle trend of “different underwear for different needs.”
Ⅱ.Why Functional Fabrics Matter in Underwear
Underwear, worn in warm and humid conditions, can easily become a breeding ground for harmful bacteria such as E. coli and Staphylococcus aureus. This may lead to itching, odor, allergic reactions, and even infections.
- The white paper states that high-quality underwear fabric must excel in three key dimensions:
- antibacterial performance, comfort, and durability.
- PLA fabric stands out with strong performance in all three areas.
Ⅲ.What Makes PLA Fabric Special?
PLA fiber—often called “corn fiber”—is derived from renewable plant resources such as corn, cassava, and agricultural by-products. Through fermentation, polymerization, and spinning, these natural materials are transformed into a high-performance, bio-based fiber. Its natural origin and molecular characteristics give PLA fabric advantages unmatched by traditional materials.
1. Natural Antibacterial Protection
PLA naturally forms a mildly acidic environment during hydrolysis, which inhibits the growth of harmful bacteria without the need for added chemical antibacterial agents. This ensures long-lasting and stable antibacterial performance.
The white paper reports that PLA fabric achieves an antibacterial index of 97.4%, effectively reducing health risks related to bacterial growth—especially beneficial for individuals with sensitive skin or higher hygiene needs.
2. Skin-Friendly and Low-Allergy Comfort
As a plant-derived fiber with no chemical residues, PLA is exceptionally gentle on the skin. Its fine fiber structure offers a soft, silky touch comparable to premium mulberry silk. This minimizes friction and discomfort, providing a soothing experience suitable even for sensitive skin.
3. Durable, Shape-Stable, and Comfortable
Traditional fabrics often struggle to balance comfort and durability. Modal may lose its shape, while pure cotton tends to harden after repeated washing.
PLA fabric, however, achieves a durability index of 99.0, outperforming conventional cotton in strength. It also offers excellent wrinkle resistance and shape retention, maintaining softness and structure even after many wash cycles. In addition, PLA’s moisture-wicking and quick-drying properties reduce heat and stickiness during wear.
Ⅳ.Toward a More Scientific Approach to Underwear Selection
The recognition of PLA fabric in modern underwear guidelines reflects a broader shift: consumers are moving from habit-based choices to science-based decision-making. As awareness of health, comfort, and sustainability continues to rise, materials that combine functionality, safety, and environmental benefits—such as PLA—are expected to become mainstream in the underwear market.
PLA fabric is well positioned to deliver a next-to-skin experience that is safe, comfortable, and sustainable.
*Note: This article references content from the Bioplastics Research Institute.
