While there is no magical fabric that heals eczema skin, some fabrics are better than others - and bamboo is one of them.
People with sensitive skin or eczema (atopic dermatitis) would know that the discomfort of itching is painful which can be worse in dusty, humid and/or hot conditions.
Even adult eczema sufferers are sometimes unable to control the urge to scratch when it gets unbearable (speaking from my own personal experience).
Unfortunately, eczema also affects babies and children, who are unable to fully grasp their condition and would often scratch those itchy spots to relieve themselves of the itch and discomfort. This becomes a vicious cycle as the protective layer on their skin breaks and gives way to bloody wounds.
The Worst Types Of Clothing To Avoid For Eczema
Eczema-sufferers often experience increased irritation, sweating, overheating, and itchiness when they wear clothing made from wool or synthetic materials like polyester and nylon due to the nature of the fabric. That’s why it’s so important for eczema sufferers to choose the right eczema-friendly clothing.
Especially more so with fast fashion these days. We really don’t know what kind of chemicals are hidden in the clothing which can increase the possibility of eczema flare-ups.
Not all fabrics were created equal. The clothes we wear is an important aspect of eczema management. It can soothe our skin irritation and aid in the healing process. Bamboo has been one of the more popular eczema-friendly fabrics.
Which clothing materials are the most eczema-friendly?
Cotton is the most commonly found material that is natural. Cotton is soft, cool, great at absorbing sweat, easily washable and allows the skin to ‘breathe’. However, do be careful to read labels as ‘cotton’ blends can contain a significant proportion of polyester.
Bamboo, another soft, breathable material, is more absorbent than cotton, highly effective at regulating temperature (keeping you cool during hotter months and warm during cooler months) and has antibacterial properties, making it an excellent choice for individuals suffering from eczema. The incredibly soft and smooth fabric provides a gentle touch against sensitive skin, helping to minimize irritation and discomfort, allowing the skin to breathe and heal. Again, do read the labels of clothings to understand the proportion of bamboo and other materials as most brands offer only 50-70% bamboo blends.
Silk known for its luxurious feel, offers several advantages for eczema sufferers. Its smooth and soft texture minimizes friction and irritation on delicate skin. Silk fabric also possesses excellent moisture-wicking properties, drawing away moisture from the skin and keeping it dry. Furthermore, silk is a natural temperature regulator, providing warmth during colder seasons and keeping the body cool in warm weather. This helps to maintain a comfortable environment for eczema-prone skin, preventing overheating or excessive sweating, which can trigger flare-ups. Silk is hypoallergenic and less likely to cause allergic reactions, making it suitable for individuals with sensitive skin. The downside of silk is that it is much more expensive and cannot be machine-washed, which may not be a practical choice for daily wear.
Why Is Bamboo Good for Eczema?
While there is no magical fabric that heals eczema skin, some fabrics are better than others - and bamboo is one of them.
Bamboo is quickly becoming one of the most popular fabrics known for it’s super soft, breathable, hypoallergenic and durable properties and not to mention it’s also highly sustainable (and also more affordable to it's silk counterpart).
Here are some reasons why bamboo clothing is better for your skin.
Say Goodbye to Sweaty Skin
Synthetic fabrics such as nylon and polyester especially in Singapore’s hot and humid weather can cause sweating which in turns trigger eczema flare ups. Bamboo is not only breathable, it is also able to wick away moisture 2x faster than even organic cotton, meaning it effectively absorbs and evaporates moisture away from the skin. This is particularly beneficial for eczema sufferers, as excessive moisture can exacerbate flare-ups. By keeping the skin dry and cool, bamboo fabric helps to prevent the buildup of sweat and bacteria, reducing the risk of irritation and infection. Plus, its antibacterial and hypoallergenic so you don’t have to worry about bacteria build-up.
Let Baby’s Skin Breathe
Bamboo is extremely breathable. This is an important element of eczema-friendly clothing. With its moisture-wicking properties, sweaty irritation is kept at bay as the fabric draws sweat off the body to the outer side of the garment.
Bamboo Clothes Are Soft and Soothing
When baby has eczema-prone skin, it is important to choose the right fabrics. Bamboo fabric is naturally soft, extremely gentle on skin, cool to the touch and oh so soothing - like a gentle marshmallow hug.
No More Allergies
Adults and little ones with eczema tend to be more prone to allergic reactions. That’s why it’s so important for eczema-sufferers to choose clothing made from hypoallergenic material like bamboo fabric.
Your little one’s skin will appreciate bamboo’s breathable quality and gentleness. Without feeling itchy or irritated, little ones and parents will finally be able to get through the day in peace.
Temperature Regulating
Another property of bamboo fabric that we love is it’s temperature regulating feature. This cooling effect is especially beneficial during the summer months or in climates where temperature control is essential. For younger babies who are are unable to regulate their own body temperature, this means that you’ll be able to have peace of mind knowing baby will be kept warm during cooler months and cool during warmer months.
No Scratchy Tags
Last but not least, at The Green Edit, you will never find a piece of clothing or product with any scratchy clothing tags or labels - we understand because we’re mothers too!
The combination of softness, breathability, moisture-wicking capabilities, and hypoallergenic properties makes bamboo an ideal fabric for individuals with eczema, providing comfort and relief. Your little one’s skin is sure to love this soft and soothing fabric. Skin-loving, planet-friendly, what more can we ask for?
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