As evidenced by old-school "sauna suits," the idea of slimming down by increasing your core body temperature is not a new one. But the latest generation of hot pants, like Zaggora, aim to incorporate some serious style into getting your (extra) sweat on at the gym. Companies claim that the clothing, which now includes corsets, tops, shorts, pants, jackets, and even bras, torches fat and melts away inches through "thermogenesis."
Do they work?
"It’s not possible to spot reduce," Dr. Lopez says. "So from that point alone, it’s not a smart tool or investment to use." Dr. Talbott agrees. "All they make you do is sweat, so you lose water, not fat. The main problem with this approach is not that it's ineffective, but the dehydration they cause can lead to overeating later in the day and eventual weight gain."
Are they safe?
"Our bodies produce sweat to control our temperature, not to lose weight," Dr. Brar explains. "When we are hot, in order to regulate our temperatures, we produce sweat on our skin which evaporates and results in cooling. If the sweat cannot evaporate to cool you, you are prone to overheating, which can cause fainting or a form of heat stroke."
Dr. Lopez adds that "hot pants" could interfere with your body's natural process for eliminating toxins through your pores. "It’s probably not too much to worry about if you are only wearing 'hot shorts,' but the more of your body that you cover up or keep from breathing, you could be creating problems," he says.
Final verdict: Deny it.
