Clothing is on our skin every day and night, so it’s no surprise that what we wear can play a crucial role in managing eczema. The wrong type of clothing can irritate skin, exacerbate symptoms, and cause additional flare-ups.
As well as its potential for skin irritation, we also need to consider how a garment item will interact with creams and ointments, whether it will cope with frequent washing, and the extent to which it will inhibit scratching.
Managing eczema is of course complex and there is no one size fits all solution. This guide can help you consider your options when choosing the right fabrics for you or your little one.
Key Factors in Choosing Eczema Friendly Clothing
1: Synthetic Materials
For people with eczema, wool and synthetic materials, like polyester and nylon, can cause more problems. These materials tend to be non-breathable and can cause sweating and irritation.
Fabrics with a high content of polyester and nylon, like those used in most sportswear, can make eczema worse due to being water-resistant, which means moisture from your sweat cannot escape easily and gets trapped inside. They are also made up of many tiny fibres that feel rough and itchy on the skin. Synthetic fibres cause overheating, sweating and irritation, which set off the dreaded itch. Another worrying problem is that they release microplastics, which recent research shows are harmful to our health.
Some types of eczema friendly clothing, will contain synthetic material (e.g. elastane/ spandex/lycra) blended into the garment for elasticity purposes. This is usually a small amount and is necessary to allow some movement and retain the garments fit over repeated washing. This stretch is particularly important when considering wet wrap clothing for eczema. Skinakin's all in one suits are an ideal for wet or dry wrapping.
Look for products with a lower percentage of the stretch material (ideally under 15%). Choose clothing that blends elastane, spandex, or lycra, with natural, breathable fibres such as cotton, bamboo, or merino wool. These natural fibres are typically gentler on the skin and more breathable, which is beneficial for eczema. Avoid exposed elastic thin strips of elastic, which can cut into the skin.
2. Breathability
Breathable fabrics are essential for managing eczema. They allow air to circulate, keeping the skin cool and dry. This helps to prevent overheating and sweating, which can trigger itching and flare-ups. Natural fibres like cotton and bamboo are excellent for breathability.
3. Moisture-Wicking Properties
Maintaining moisture is crucia however sweat can cause irritation to the skin. Moisture-wicking fabrics draw sweat away from the skin, keeping it dry and comfortable. This is especially important during physical activities and in warm weather. Ezcema friendly fabrics like bamboo and cotton can wick moisture away from the skin, maintaining a dry and comfortable environment.
4. Seam and Tag Placement
Seams and tags can cause friction and irritation, leading to increased itching and discomfort. Clothing for children with eczema should have external seams and be tag-free or have tags that can be easily removed. The design of the clothing should focus on reducing friction and ensuring the fabric is soft and smooth.
5. Fit and Style
The fit of the clothing is also important. Overly restrictive clothing can rub against the skin and cause irritation, and clothing with a little stretch allows for better air circulation and comfort. Additionally, styles that cover more skin can provide a protective barrier against environmental triggers. For instance, long sleeves and pants can protect the skin from pollen, dust, and other potential irritants.
6. Dyes
Reactions to dyes may not affect everyone however they can irritate and cause of textile allergic contact dermatitis. Textile dyes are used to give colour to fabrics and are addded during fabric processing along with other chemical additives such as finishing agents and flame retardants. Reactions can occur when unbound dyes from coloured clothing bleed onto skin. Many dyes are water soluble and sweat from the body can have the same effect, which leads to leaching out of the dye and increasing the risk of developing an allergy.
Top 5 Eczema friendly materials:
Certain fabrics can irritate sensitive skin, while others can help soothe and protect it. The fabric properties can help keep the skin healthy and comfortable. Here is our top 5 list of eczema friendly fabrics:
Cotton: Cotton is highly recommended for children with eczema. It is soft, cool, good at absorbing sweat, easily washable and allows the skin to ‘breathe’. ‘Cotton rich’ blends can contain a significant proportion of polyester, so be sure to read labels carefully to see exactly what proportion of cotton is included before you buy. It is soft, breathable, and hypoallergenic, making it gentle on the skin. Cotton allows air to circulate, reducing sweat and preventing the skin from becoming too warm or too cold. This natural fibre also has a high absorbency rate, which helps in managing moisture levels on the skin. At Skinakin, we use only certified Organic Cotton which is even better than standard cotton, as it is of much higher quality, durable, and there are no chemicals used in the production process.
Bamboo: Bamboo fabric is another good option. It is soft and highly effective at regulating temperature. Bamboo in clothing is generally described as ‘bamboo viscose’ or ‘viscose derived from bamboo’. It is usually blended with cotton and a proportion of elastane/spandex/lycra to give the garment some stretch. The processing of bamboo viscose is chemical intensive and not very environmentally friendly, but the material has the properties that make bamboo an attractive option to people with eczema. Bear in mind that bamboo is a very porous fabric so can take a long time to dry between uses.
Lyocell/TENCEL: These are cellulose fibres derived from bamboo or wood pulp in a closed-loop manufacturing system that uses less toxic chemicals and recycles almost 100% of solvent in the process. It is naturally hypoallergenic, moisture-wicking, and soft, reducing the risk of irritation.
Silk: Silk, particularly medical-grade silk, can be beneficial for children with eczema (however it can be expensive and fragile). It is smooth, reduces friction, and has antimicrobial properties. Silk's luxurious texture offers a gentle touch to the skin, minimizing irritation and providing a soothing effect. However, silk is expensive and less practical than cotton or bamboo. Silk is very delicate and can require hand washing and drying flat. Not the most practical when you have a child who is relentlessly scratching their skin through the fabric!
Merino Wool – The majority of wool can be rough and trap heat, leading to increased itching and discomfort. These materials often lack breathability and can exacerbate sweating, further irritating sensitive skin. Merino wool is one exception to this. This ultra-fine wool is extremely soft and comfortable, although it also can be expensive and difficult to wash and dry easily.
Benefits of Skinakin’s Eczema Relief Clothing
Skinakin is dedicated to providing hypoallergenic and comfortable clothing specifically designed for children with eczema. Our products incorporate many of the key factors essential for managing eczema effectively.
1. Hypoallergenic Fabrics
Skinakin uses soft, certified organic cotton which is gentle on sensitive skin and help to prevent irritation and flare-ups. These materials are chosen for their ability to provide comfort and reduce the likelihood of triggering eczema symptoms.
2. Breathability and Moisture-Wicking
Skinakin’s clothing is designed to be breathable and moisture-wicking, ensuring that the skin remains cool and dry. This helps to reduce sweating and the associated itching and discomfort. By keeping the skin dry, these fabrics help prevent the breakdown of the skin barrier, which is crucial in managing eczema.
3. Comfortable Design
Skinakin’s products feature flat seams and are tag-free, reducing friction and irritation. The clothing is designed to fit comfortably, allowing for free movement and air circulation. This thoughtful design ensures that children can play and move freely without experiencing discomfort.
4. Protection Against Irritants
By covering the entire body, Skinakin’s clothing provides a protective barrier against environmental triggers such as pollen, dust, and pet dander. The protective full body layer and enclosed mittens helps shield sensitive skin from potential irritants (and fingernails) reducing the risk of flare-ups.
Selecting and Caring for Eczema-Friendly Clothing
1. Read Labels Carefully: Always check the labels for fabric content. Opt for clothing that is between 80-100% cotton, bamboo, or medical-grade silk. Avoid materials that include high levels of synthetic fibers or wool (apart from Merino) which can irritate sensitive skin.
2. Pre-Wash New Clothes: New clothing should be washed before the first wear to remove any potential irritants like dyes and chemicals. Use a mild, fragrance-free detergent. Pre-washing also softens the fabric, making it more comfortable for sensitive skin.
3. Avoid Fabric Softeners: Fabric softeners can leave residues that irritate the skin. It’s best to avoid them altogether. Instead, use natural alternatives like white vinegar during the rinse cycle to keep clothes soft.
4. Layering: In colder weather, layering is a great way to keep children warm without using heavy, itchy fabrics. Use a soft, breathable base layer and add lightweight layers as needed. This approach allows for better temperature regulation and prevents overheating.
5. Monitor for Allergies: If your child’s eczema worsens after wearing a new item of clothing, they may be allergic to the fabric, or any treatments applied to it. Discontinue use and consult with a healthcare professional if necessary.
Conclusion
Choosing the right clothing for children with eczema is crucial for managing symptoms and ensuring comfort. The wrong type of clothing can exacerbate itching, dryness, and irritation, leading to flare-ups and a decreased quality of life. The right clothing can provide a soothing, protective barrier against irritants and allergens, helping to manage eczema more effectively.
Parents should consider fabric material, breathability, moisture-wicking properties, seam and tag placement, and fit when selecting clothing for their children with eczema. With careful selection and proper care, the right clothing can make a significant difference in managing eczema and enhancing a child’s comfort and quality of life.
Skinakin’s range of eczema relief clothing offers an excellent solution for parents looking to provide the best care for their children. By incorporating hypoallergenic fabrics, breathable designs, and comfortable features, Skinakin’s products help to reduce the discomfort associated with eczema, reduce damage caused by scratching, and improve overall well-being.
For more information on how Skinakin can help your child manage eczema, visit our website at Skinakin. Together, we can make life more comfortable for children with eczema.
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