A Parent's Guide to Eczema Friendly Clothing Choices

It is disheartening as parents to see our children suffer from eczema. It not only disturbs the child, but the entire family as well. Medical treatments are key part of eczema management but choosing the right clothes can also make a big difference in your child’s comfort and managing symptoms.

Learning About the Relationship Between Clothing and Eczema

It is a bit more complex than most people realise how garments relate to eczema. Eczema breaks down our children’s skin barrier to protect it from the world. Certain fabrics can cause flare ups or make symptoms worse, and tight fits and harsh fabrics are also to blame. The right clothing can help to heal and ease symptoms.

Natural Fibres: Your First Line of Defence

While cotton is generally considered the ultimate eczema friendly fabric, not all cottons are created equal. Besides that, organic cotton is cultivated without toxic pesticides that can irritate sensitive skin. The fabric is also breathable, which is natural with cotton, and regulates body temperature, reducing perspiration, a known eczema trigger.

Besides cotton, bamboo and silk have been realised as being gentle on the skin. Bamboo fabric is naturally antimicrobial and silk has a smooth surface area which reduces friction on the skin. If these fabrics are most beneficial at night when scratching is often worse.

The Effects of Clothing Design

Managing eczema includes the design and construction of children's clothing. Garments that are loose fitting are better for aeration and prevent chafing with sore skin. But flat seams, rather than raised ones, lessen the chance of further irritation, particularly at the flexures.

Look for clothing with mittens integrated into them, even in sleeping attire, for younger children, especially. These simple inclusions can stop the person from scratching in their sleep and allow the skin to heal. Also, find clothing with features that can be adjusted to fit over bandages or wet wraps when necessary.

Laundry Practices Matter

Proper care of clothes is a problem even if they are the most appropriate. It is important to use fragrance free, enzyme free detergents for sensitive skin. Avoiding fabric softeners prevents a build up of irritating chemicals and double rinsing will remove all residues of detergent.

Seasonal Considerations

Changing your approach with the seasons: Lightweight breathable layers in summer to prevent overheating, and in winter, a well layered approach to staying comfortable without setting off flare ups. During winter months you may want to consider investing in some thermal wear made from natural fibers that will keep your child warm, but also protect the skin against any flare ups.

Making Smart Investments

Specialist kids eczema clothing may seem pricey at first, but can be very cost effective in the long run. In some cases, these clothes will last longer and will keep their friendly properties to the skin after multiple washes. In addition, flare-ups may decrease even more and a good night sleep will be priceless for both the child and the family.

Managing eczema in a child can be a long, frustrating, and challenging journey, but it doesn’t have to be. Clothing is only one part of a management approach, but it is very important. It can help children feel more comfortable in their own skin by selecting the right fabrics, designs and following the right care advice.

Remember that every child is different in his or her eczema journey and what works for one child may not work for another. Take note of how your child reacts to different fabrics and styles, and don’t be afraid to ask the healthcare professionals for their advice.