Atopic dermatitis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease with a genetic predisposition. Due to a lack of lipids and proteins, the skin barrier is weakened and no longer plays its protective role against external aggressions (allergens, etc.). The skin no longer retains water, which leads to intense dryness. The cutaneous barrier is altered, leading to irritation, inflammation and itching.

 

Discover more about the role of skin microbiome in atopic dermatitis

Graphical representation of the behaviour of skin suffering from atopic dermatitis.

The friction of fabrics on atopic eczema prone skin can have a major impact on the exacerbation of symptoms. Some clothes irritate the skin and promote itching that can be intense and thus amplifying the skin inflammation.

These feelings of discomfort may be aggravated at night. In fact, 40% of people1 say that is more intense when they are resting or laying down. At night, the skin is a less effective barrier, making it easier for outside elements to penetrate, resulting in more intense itching. Rough sheets that rub against the fragile skin can also cause eczema flare-ups and thus sleep disturbances.

1 L. Misery and C.Taieb. « Epidémiologie du prurit en France », Ann. Dermatol. Veneorol. Vol. 138, 2011

What types of clothes to wear? 

Synthetics fabrics and wool tend to irritate the skin and cause itching. Prefer cotton, linen or silk clothes rather when choosing clothes.

Tight clothing does not allow the skin breathing and because of its cut it rubs against the skin more than loose clothing. This can lead to irritation and sweating and thus increase itching and skin discomfort.

2 Xhaulaire E, et al., (2006). Comment je préviens… une exacerbation de la dermatite atopique, Revue Médicale de Liège, 61 (7-8), 600 – 603.
3 Association de l’eczema, (2020). Eczema et vêtements.
4Association de l’eczema, (2020). Choisir des vêtements avec de l’eczéma.

Good to know

Today, more and more textile brands offer clothing specially designed for atopic eczema prone skin: adapted textile materials, external seams, absence of labels for a greater comfort in daily life.

How to care for your clothes ? 

Atopic eczema prone skin that comes into contact with clothes without residues are less prone to irritation and itching. Thus, when washing your clothes, prefer the use of liquid detergent and the double rinse option.

Fragrance molecules found in some clothing can be a source of irritation for atopic eczema prone skin. Therefore, fragrance-free products are recommended to reduce the risk of skin irritation, itching and discomfort rubbing.

The friction of the allergen-laden fabrics on atopic eczema prone skin can cause irritation, itching and discomfort. These molecules can stick to clothes when they are air-dried. The use of the dryer makes clothes softer and therefore more comfortable to wear. This drying method is usually recommended in spring and autumn because of the high amount of allergens in the air.

5 Association de l’eczema, (2020). Eczema et vêtements.
6 Association de l’eczema, (2020). Choisir des vêtements avec de l’eczéma. 

Good to know

When you buy new clothes, wash them before wearing them. New clothes contain a lot of irritating residues in their fibers. It is important to remove them to reduce irritation and itching risks when the textile is rubbed against the skin. Also remember to cut off the labels to avoid any irritation on the neck.

Bottle of Bioderma Atoderm Intensive Balm

A recent study on Atoderm Intensive baume showed a significant protective action of the product against fabric frictions. Atoderm Intensive baume reduces these frictions on the skin by 23%7.

Atoderm Intensive baume plays an essential role in improving the patient quality of life. By helping to limit the fabric frictions on the skin, it provides more comfort in daily life.

7 Use test, 16 subjects for 1 day