Is Alpaca Wool Itch-Free?

You’ve heard alpaca wool is hypoallergenic, making it a go-to for those with wool allergies. But here’s the real question: does hypoallergenic mean itch-free?

Alpaca wool’s itchiness depends on fiber thickness: under 20 microns is itch-free, 21-29 microns is comfortable, and over 30 microns is itchy. Regular alpaca is 23-26.5 microns, although low quality uses up to 30. Royal and baby alpaca, the finest grades, are 18-23 microns. 

Whether wool feels itchy or not all comes down to the quality of its fibers. And the secret lies in thickness—generally, the thicker the wool, the itchier it feels. But does thinner always mean better? 

Let’s dig into the details and find out.

When Is Alpaca Wool Itch-Free?

Not everyone perceives itch the same way—what feels soft to one person might feel irritating to another. When it comes to alpaca wool, comfort can vary depending on the fiber thickness and your skin’s sensitivity.

• Fibers under 20 microns are itch-free;

• Fibers between 21 and 29 microns are comfortable for most people; 

• Fibers over 30 microns feel itchy.

It also depends on the wool type and fiber thickness, since not all alpaca wool is itch-free, comfort varies with fiber diameter.

• Regular alpaca ranges from 23 to 40 microns;

• Only fibers up to 30 microns are used for clothing;

• Royal and baby alpaca, the finest grades, range from 18 to 23 microns.

The finer the fiber, the softer and more luxurious the feel, making royal and baby alpaca highly sought after for premium garments. Added benefit: thinner fibers are often more durable, as they retain their softness over time and are less likely to cause irritation with repeated wear.

Wool Is Measured in Micrometers (Microns)

All types of fibers and hair are measured in micrometers, or microns, to express the diameter of wool fibers. Microns are used to determine several key factors:

• Fineness

• Value

• Quality

• Itchiness

In general, wool with fewer microns is considered higher quality and finer, which in turn increases its value.

Fiber Thickness Compared

To understand how alpaca wool compares in softness, let's look at the micron ranges of common fibers:

• Human Hair: 75 microns

• Sheep wool: 40 microns

• Alpaca wool: 23-40 microns

• Baby and Royal alpaca: 18-23 microns

• Merino wool: 15-25 microns

• Cashmere: 15-19 microns

• Silk: 10-13 microns

These micron ranges are based on data from the FAO's Natural Fibres resource (source: FAO, 2009).

The lower the micron count, the softer the fiber. Given that baby and royal alpaca wool range from 18-23 microns, it’s no surprise that they are considered some of the softest fibers available.

Does Soft Equal Itch-free?

Alpaca wool is known for being incredibly soft, but softness doesn’t always mean itch-free. 

While most high-quality alpaca wool used in clothing and accessories is under 30 microns, this doesn’t guarantee that it won’t cause irritation for everyone. For most people, fibers below 30 microns are comfortable, but those with sensitive skin may still feel some itchiness from fibers between 21 and 29 microns.

Regular alpaca wool generally starts at around 23 microns. Whether it’s itch-free depends on your skin's sensitivity. If you have sensitive skin, baby alpaca might be a better choice. Baby alpaca fibers range from 15 to 23 microns, which are usually softer and less likely to cause irritation.

To figure out what works for your skin, you’ll need to feel the wool or ask about the specific micron count. While producers know the micron of their fibers, it’s not always listed on the product label.

• If budget allows, royal alpaca is the safest bet for the softest, itch-free experience, especially for those with sensitive skin. 

However, everyone's skin reacts differently, so if you're unsure, it's always best to consult a doctor. This information does not replace professional medical advice.

What Else Determines If Alpaca Wool Is Itch-Free?

Back to the technical side: as mentioned earlier, microns indicate the fineness of a fiber. However, it's not just about size, since wool fibers also have natural scales. The smaller the diameter of the fiber, the smaller the scales, which results in a softer, more comfortable feel. 

Larger scales, on the other hand, create more friction, which can lead to itchiness.

However… Micron count is a big factor in whether alpaca wool is itchy, but it's not the only thing that matters. Here are a few other factors that play a role:

10 Factors That Affect If Alpaca Wool Is Itch-Free

1. Micron Size: Smaller micron size means smaller scales on the fiber, resulting in a softer feel. Larger micron fibers have larger scales, which can cause itching.

2. Fiber Structure: The way the wool is naturally structured affects its comfort. Softer fibers (with fewer scales) will be more pleasant to wear.

3. Crimp: The natural wave or curl in alpaca wool can influence how the fibers lay on your skin, reducing friction and making the wool feel softer.

4. Processing Techniques: How the alpaca wool is processed (e.g., carding, combing, brushing) can enhance softness by straightening or fluffing the fibers.

5. Blended Fibers: When alpaca wool is mixed with other fibers (like silk, bamboo, or cashmere), it can become softer and less likely to cause irritation.

6. Natural Lanolin: Unlike sheep wool, alpaca wool doesn't contain lanolin, which can sometimes be irritating to sensitive skin. This makes alpaca wool a more skin-friendly option for many people.

7. Skin Sensitivity: Your personal skin type matters. People with more sensitive skin may react to even finer wool, while others can wear coarser fibers without issue.

8. Yarn Thickness: The way yarn is spun affects its texture. Tightly spun yarn may cause more irritation, while a looser, softer spin can reduce friction on the skin.

9. Shorter vs. Longer Fibers: Longer fibers are usually softer and smoother, while shorter fibers tend to be more coarse, which can increase itchiness.

10. Chemical Residues: If the wool hasn't been properly washed or treated, any leftover chemicals could cause irritation, even if the wool is fine.

So, while microns are important, other factors also contribute to whether the wool feels itch-free.

What To Look for When Buying Alpaca Wool

When purchasing alpaca wool, it's important to consider a few key factors to ensure comfort and quality. Here’s a quick guide to help you choose the best wool for your needs:

1. Micron Count

• What to Look For: Always check the micron count to gauge the fineness of the wool. For a soft, itch-free experience, aim for alpaca wool that falls under 30 microns. Baby alpaca and royal alpaca, with micron counts between 18 and 23, offer the softest feel.

• Why It Matters: Smaller micron counts (under 30) generally equate to softer fibers, reducing the chances of itching. If you have sensitive skin, opt for wool under 23 microns, especially royal or baby alpaca.
  

2. Type of Alpaca Wool

• What to Look For:

• Royal and Baby Alpaca: These are the finest grades, typically ranging from 18-23 microns. They’re ideal for those with sensitive skin, offering a luxurious, itch-free feel.

• Regular Alpaca: Ranges from 23-40 microns, with fibers under 30 microns often used for clothing and accessories. Regular alpaca can still be comfortable but may cause irritation for those with extra-sensitive skin.

• Why It Matters: The type of alpaca wool determines its softness and overall feel. Baby and royal alpaca are smoother and less likely to cause irritation, making them suitable for those looking for high-end comfort.
  
  

3. Processing

• What to Look For: Check how the alpaca wool has been processed. Softer, more comfortable wool is usually processed with techniques like carding, combing, and brushing, which straighten or fluff the fibers to enhance comfort.

• Why It Matters: The way alpaca wool is processed affects its texture and softness. Properly processed wool is gentler on the skin and less likely to cause irritation.
  
  

4. Blended Fibers

• What to Look For: Many alpaca wool products are blended with other fibers such as silk, cashmere, or bamboo. These additions can increase softness and reduce the likelihood of irritation.

• Why It Matters: Blended fibers help enhance the smoothness of the wool, making it softer and more breathable. This can be a great option for those looking to prevent itching while enjoying the warmth of alpaca.
  
  

5. Label and Fiber Origin

• What to Look For: Look for product labels that provide detailed information about the fiber’s origin, micron count, and processing methods. Some alpaca wool products are marked with certifications, which can give you more insight into the quality and source of the wool.

• Why It Matters: Knowing the exact origin and quality of the wool can give you peace of mind about its comfort level. Certified products are often higher in quality and come from trusted sources.
  
  

6. Price

• What to Look For: Higher-quality alpaca wool, particularly royal and baby alpaca, tends to be more expensive due to its fine quality and labor-intensive production process.

• Why It Matters: While baby and royal alpaca are more costly, they offer superior softness and less irritation, making them a worthwhile investment, especially for those with sensitive skin.
  
  

Pro Tip: When in doubt, feel the wool before you buy. Try it on a sensitive area like your wrist or upper lip to see how your skin reacts. If it feels smooth and comfortable, you’re on the right track.