Key Takeaways: The 30-Second Fix

Nothing sours a perfect beach day faster than your child complaining of an itchy, red rash. If you're wondering why your little one’s swimwear might be the culprit, here’s the quick version:

It often comes down to two things: harsh chemicals in synthetic materials like neoprene, and a poor fit that causes chafing. The solution is to choose swimwear made from natural, hypoallergenic materials with a snug, comfortable fit.

• Ditch the Chemicals: Opt for plant-based fabrics like Yulex® natural rubber, which are made without the sensitising chemicals often used in neoprene production.

• Fit is King: Ensure the suit is snug all over—not tight, but with no baggy areas where sand and salt can get trapped and cause friction.

• Rinse, Rinse, Rinse: Always rinse your child and their wetsuit in fresh water after swimming to wash away salt, chlorine, and other potential irritants.

Why is My Kid Getting Rashes from Their Wetsuit?

You bought a rash guard to prevent rashes, so what’s going on? Let's break down the common culprits.

1. The Material Itself: The Neoprene Problem

For years, most wetsuits have been made from neoprene, a synthetic rubber. While it keeps kids warm, the manufacturing process can involve chemicals that are known skin irritants. For a child with sensitive skin, or even conditions like eczema, contact with these residues can trigger what's called contact dermatitis—a red, sore, and frustratingly itchy rash.

It’s not their fault, and it’s not yours. Some skin just doesn't agree with the fossil-fuel-based formula of traditional swimwear.

2. Friction and Chafing

The second cause is simpler: friction. A wetsuit that’s too loose will scoop up water and sand. As your child runs and plays, that trapped sand acts like sandpaper against their delicate skin, especially around the arms, neck, and legs. On the other hand, a suit that’s too tight can dig in and chafe all on its own.

The Solution: A Two-Step Plan for Rash-Free Beach Days

The great news is that preventing these rashes is straightforward. It all comes down to making smarter choices about material and fit.

Step 1: Choose a Kinder Material

This is the game-changer. Instead of neoprene, look for swimwear made from Yulex® natural rubber.

As we covered in our deep-dive article, What is Yulex®? And Why is it Way Better Than Neoprene?, Yulex is a plant-based material sourced from FSC® Certified forests. Because it's a natural rubber, its production process is far cleaner and gentler, eliminating the harsh chemical accelerants found in neoprene.

This makes Yulex® hypoallergenic and the #1 choice for children with sensitive skin. It provides all the warmth and flexibility of neoprene without the risk of irritation. It’s what we use in every single one of our AVALY Kids Wetsuits.

Step 2: Master the Perfect Fit

A kids' wetsuit should fit like a second skin. Here’s what to look for:

• Snug All Over: It should be snug at the cuffs, neck, and legs to keep water out, but not so tight that it restricts movement.

• No Baggy Bits: Check for loose fabric around the torso and under the arms. This is where chafing is most likely to happen.

• Comfortable Seams: Look for flatlock stitching, which lies flat against the skin and is less likely to rub or irritate.

Your New Beach Day Checklist

Ready to say goodbye to swimwear rashes for good?

1. Prioritise Plant-Based: Make your next wetsuit one made from skin-safe Yulex®.

2. Check the Fit: Use our AVALY Size Guide to find that perfect, snug fit.

3. Rinse After Play: A quick rinse in fresh water for both your child and their suit after a swim works wonders.

Happy, comfortable kids mean longer, happier days at the beach for everyone.

Ready to make the switch? Check out our award-winning range of Skin-Safe Yulex® Kids Wetsuits and Rash Vests and feel the difference.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Is Yulex® guaranteed to not cause a rash?

A: Yulex® is hypoallergenic and free from the common chemical irritants found in neoprene, making it the safest choice for sensitive skin. While no material can be guaranteed for every single skin type in the world, it is overwhelmingly the gentlest high-performance option available.

Q2: My child still got a slight rash. What else could it be?

A: Rashes can also be caused by sunscreen reactions, trapped sand, or simply prolonged exposure to salt water. Always ensure you're using a child-friendly sunscreen and rinsing both your child and their suit in fresh water after your swim is over.

Q3: How do I know if I have the right fit when buying online?

A: The best way is to take your child's measurements (chest and height) and compare them to a brand's size chart. A good fit is crucial! Our AVALY Size Guide includes a video to help you measure correctly for that perfect, rash-free fit.

Author: AVALY Australia

Published: 15 October 2025

Last updated: 15 October 2025