Going commando to stay cool could lead to illness.
A poll has found that seven per cent of men have ditched their pants to cope with recent soaring temperatures in the UK but dermatologist Dr. Faheem Latheef has claimed that 'free-balling' could have a disastrous impact on health.
He said: "The groin area is an ideal breeding ground for a number of microorganisms including bacteria, fungi and viruses due to its skin folds."
Dr. Latheef explained that heat and humidity allow the "organisms to thrive" and warned that chafing could also do damage.
He explained: "Without underwear, the skin is directly exposed to the seams and fabric of your trousers which can cause chafing and irritate the skin and cause an irritant dermatitis."
The medic revealed that ditching the pants could also cause some embarrassment.
Dr. Latheef said: "Your groin has a large concentration of sweat glands. Without underwear, this sweat has nowhere to go except on to your clothing resulting in staining and odour."