What to know about shapewear: Benefits, risks, best practices

From restrictive corsets to modern and much more breathable designs, shapewear has come a long way in the fashion world.

In present days, people make use of shapewear to achieve a smoother silhouette and build self-confidence. However, it also comes with important health and safety concerns to keep in mind.

Fashion designers Anneth Dela Calzada and Lelie Arroyo from Solá, and municipal health official Dr. Menchita Celestra from Teresa, Rizal, talk about the benefits, disadvantages, and safe wear best practices of shapewear.

What is shapewear?

Shapewear is designed to smooth and shape the body using breathable compression fabrics and seamless construction.

Dela Calzada and Arroyo said that, “Today’s shapewear provides all-day comfort while tightening the stomach, supporting posture, and lifting the bust and bum.”

Their products, for example, provide targeted compression in key areas such as the waist, stomach, hips, and thighs, creating a sleek and sculpted silhouette.

Benefits of wearing shapewear

Shapewear is not just about aesthetics. Here are other benefits of wearing them according to the designers:

• Instant body shaping: Smooths and sculpts the waist, stomach, hips, and thighs, reducing visible lines and bulges for a sleek silhouette.
• Posture and core support: Engages the back and core muscles to improve alignment and prevent slouching.
• Confidence boost: Enhances your natural shape, giving you a refined, put-together look for any occasion.
• Support for fitness and recovery: Compression helps promote blood circulation, aids muscle recovery after workouts, and provides gentle support for physical activities like yoga and running.

“While shapewear doesn’t directly cause weight loss, it helps with muscle engagement, posture, and body awareness, making it a great complement to a fitness journey,” Dela Calzada said.

Potential risks

Dr. Celestra, however, reminds that while shapewear can help boost confidence, improper use can have negative health effects.

“Kapag ikaw ay maganda ang itsura, medyo ikaw ay mas confident, mabu-boost ‘yung immune mo dahil happy ka. So ‘yung system mo ay puwedeng ma-boost dahil ‘yung itsura mo, na-sa-satisfy ka,” she said.

She warns that shapewear that is too tight might have an unhealthy impact on our bodies.

Some of the possible risks are:

• Breathing restriction if the shapewear is too tight: Tight-fitting shapewear can compress the diaphragm, making it harder to take deep breaths and make movements.
• Circulation issues due to intense compression: High compression levels may restrict blood flow, leading to numbness or tingling.
• Skin irritation: Moisture buildup from prolonged wear can cause chafing, rashes, or allergic reactions.
• Digestive discomfort: Shapewear that compresses the abdomen too tightly may lead to acid reflux or bloating by placing pressure on the stomach.

The right way to wear shapewear

“Tiis ganda” is not applicable in this situation, Dra. Celestra said.

“Kailangan na-mi-meet mo ‘yung purpose na hindi ka nag-sa-sacrifice,” she said. “Kailangan comfortable ka doon sa sinusuot mo.”

Here are some safety reminders when using shapewear:

• Choose the right size: Always refer to the shapewear brand’s size guide to find your best fit. Sizing up is better than sizing down.
• Try it on if possible: This helps ensure it fits well and feels good on your body.
• Listen to your body: If you experience discomfort, remove your shapewear and allow your body to rest. Avoid prolonged compression.
• Take breaks: Regardless of the type of shapewear, it’s important to give your body time to breathe and reset to avoid overexposure.
• Clean your shapewear regularly: Washing it after each use prevents skin irritation and maintains hygiene.
• Remember that shapewear is not designed for swimming or water sports, working out, or weight loss.

“Wearing shapewear safely ensures you get the best of both worlds—enhanced shaping and all-day comfort,” Arroyo said. —JCB, GMA Integrated News