Have you noticed your infant struggling with incessant itching, red patches, or dry, irritated skin? If so, your little one might be dealing with eczema.
While it can be distressing for parents to watch their baby experience skin irritation and discomfort, it’s important to know that eczema is a fairly common condition in infants. There are several precautions you can take to relieve your baby’s discomfort and minimize eczema flare-ups, including avoiding common eczema-inducing triggers and irritants in their clothing.
In this guide, we will break down the basics of eczema in babies and aim to help you choose the best fabrics and baby clothes for soothing comfort and minimal flare-ups. We’ll get into everything from why you should opt for natural fabrics, like Tencel Lyocell, and avoid synthetic fabrics to tips for dressing your baby for optimal comfort, despite eczema.
What is Eczema?
Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a skin condition characterized by red, itchy, and inflamed patches. It often appears in infants as early as the first few months up to five years of age. These spots can appear anywhere on the body, however, the condition most commonly affects a baby's face, scalp, elbows, and knees. In some cases, the rash may spread to their trunk. While it may appear to pop up out of “nowhere,” eczema is often triggered by various factors, including genetics, environmental factors, allergens, and common irritants.
While there is no cure for the condition, most children outgrow atopic dermatitis early in life (1). In the meantime, there are several things you can do to help relieve your baby’s discomfort and reduce the risk of flare-ups, including choosing eczema-friendly fabrics, applying hypoallergenic emollient products, and avoiding common triggers found in clothes, bedding, and the environment.
Signs of eczema in babies
Signs and symptoms of eczema include dryness, redness, and small bumps. While the rash may appear on the face and body, it rarely develops in the diaper area. Regardless, eczema can impact babies by causing discomfort, sleep disturbances, and even distress for parents witnessing their little ones in discomfort.
Worried your baby might be suffering from eczema?
Here are some common eczema symptoms and signs to look out for:
- Dry, itchy skin
- Rough or scaly patches
- A bumpy rash
- Crusted or “weepy” rash when scratched
- Rash around the face, arms, or legs
- Red or hyperpigmented skin
- Irritation that comes and goes (called “flare-ups”)
- Worsening rash with heat or sweat
Is Eczema Common in Babies?
According to the American Academy of Dermatology Association, up to 25% of children, with a notable predominance in infants, experience eczema (2). While it is common, it is essential for parents to be aware of the potential impact eczema can have on their baby's skin and the steps they can take to minimize exposure to irritants.
Each baby's experience with eczema can vary. Some may have mild symptoms that come and go, while others may struggle with persistent flare-ups. The key is to be attentive to your baby's skin and take proactive steps to prevent irritation and provide relief when flare-ups occur.
Should you cover eczema or let it breathe?
The decision to cover or let eczema breathe is a common dilemma for parents, and there is no one right answer. While some parents prefer to cover the skin to protect the rash and let moisturizing ointments absorb into the skin, others may notice that certain coverings, including clothing, lead to further discomfort from overheating and irritation. Using creams and balms made with ingredients like Colloidal Oatmeal, Jojoba Esters, and Camellia Leaf Extract, like Tubby Todd’s All Over Ointment, help naturally moisturize and soothe eczema-prone skin and flare-ups.
That’s why choosing the right fabrics for eczema-prone skin is key to striking a balance between protection and breathability. Fabrics like Tencel Lyocell offer both, providing a soft, soothing protective barrier while allowing the skin to breathe.
Eczema and Clothing: What Should Your Baby Wear?
Research shows that the fabric worn by those with eczema can either worsen or help control symptoms (3). Therefore, one of the best ways to remain vigilant against the discomforts of atopic dermatitis is choosing the right fabric for your baby's clothes. This is a crucial step for soothing delicate skin and preventing irritation and flare-ups.
While babies tend to have delicate skin in general, babies with eczema often have highly sensitive skin, making it essential to choose fabrics that are gentle and non-irritating. The best choices are soft, natural fabrics free from harsh additives. On the other hand, the itchiness and redness associated with eczema symptoms can be intensified by rough or irritating fabrics. Therefore, the wrong choice of clothing can lead to increased discomfort and prolonged healing times for eczema-prone skin.
Why Synthetic Fabrics Are Not Suitable for Eczema-Prone Skin
While synthetic fabrics may seem like a convenient choice due to their price point and soft, cozy feel, they are not the best option for babies with eczema. Synthetic fabrics commonly used in children’s clothing, including polyester, nylon, and acrylic, are often made with irritating additives and harsh chemicals to enhance their look and feel.
While these “elevated” qualities may seem appealing, they can easily irritate sensitive eczema-prone skin. Additionally, these materials lack the breathability and moisture-wicking properties of more natural fabrics, like Tencel Lyocell, further contributing to the risks of a rash flare-up.
Risk factors of synthetic fabrics for babies with eczema or sensitive skin include
- Harsh Additives and Chemicals: Many synthetic fabrics are treated with additives and chemicals that can irritate sensitive skin, potentially triggering eczema flare-ups.
- Poor Moisture Management: Synthetic fabrics do not absorb sweat effectively, leading to trapped moisture against the skin. This can create a breeding ground for bacteria and exacerbate eczema symptoms.
- Lack of Breathability: Synthetic fabrics are not breathable, trapping heat and potentially causing overheating. Proper ventilation is crucial for eczema-prone skin to avoid discomfort.
What Is The Best Fabric for Babies with Eczema?
When it comes to selecting the best fabric for eczema-prone skin, parents should shop for fabrics that are soft, breathable, and hypoallergenic. The delicate nature of a baby's skin, especially when affected by eczema flare-ups or atopic dermatitis, demands extra attention to clothing choices. Sensitive skin can be easily irritated by synthetic fabrics, making it crucial for parents to opt for more natural materials that prioritize comfort and minimize the risk of eczema symptoms.
Soft, natural fabrics like Tencel Lyocell allow you to find everything from soft and cozy baby pajamas to durable wardrobe staples without compromising the comfort and care of your baby and their delicate skin.
Key qualities to look for in baby clothes for eczema
When choosing clothing for eczema, prioritize softness, breathability, and hypoallergenic properties.
Soft fabrics reduce friction on the skin, minimizing the risk of irritation. However, keep in mind that many popular fabrics are treated with chemicals to increase their softness. Therefore, stick to naturally soft fabrics that are free from harsh additives whenever possible.
Additionally, highly breathable fabrics ensure adequate air circulation, preventing trapped moisture and increased temperatures, both of which can induce an eczema flare-up. Similarly, hypoallergenic materials are crucial for avoiding potential triggers that can exacerbate eczema symptoms.
Popular fabrics and potential drawbacks
Again, popular synthetic fabrics like polyester are often made with harsh chemicals and dyes that easily irritate sensitive skin. Furthermore, they may not provide the necessary comfort and can potentially aggravate eczema-prone skin.
On the other hand, not all natural fabrics are ideal for babies with eczema either. While organic cotton and merino wool are popular natural fabrics for baby clothes, they may not meet all the criteria for eczema-prone skin. Organic cotton is soft but may lack optimal breathability, and merino wool, while breathable, can be scratchy.
The ideal choice
Amidst various fabric options, Tencel Lyocell stands out as the optimal choice for babies with eczema (4). Tencel baby clothes has all the essential qualities necessary for the well-being of eczema-prone skin, providing a comfortable and irritation-free experience.
Let’s dig deeper into why Tencel is an ideal fabric for babies with eczema.
The Benefits of Tencel Fabric for Eczema-Prone Skin
Tencel is a sustainable fabric derived from wood pulp, known for its exceptional softness and sustainability. Tencel fibers are produced using a closed-loop system, minimizing waste and chemical usage. This eco-friendly approach aligns well with the needs of parents seeking clothing that is both gentle on their child's skin and on the planet.
Why Tencel Lyocell is great for eczema
Tencel has several properties that make it an ideal choice for children’s clothing in general—and especially for babies battling eczema symptoms.
Here are the top benefits of Tencel fabric for eczema-prone skin:
- Natural Softness: Tencel's inherent softness provides a comforting experience for babies, reducing friction and irritation on sensitive skin.
- Breathability: The breathable nature of Tencel promotes air circulation, preventing overheating and maintaining a comfortable environment.
- Thermoregulation: Tencel adapts to the baby's body temperature, ensuring optimal comfort in various climates.
- Moisture-Wicking: Tencel effectively wicks away moisture, keeping the fabric dry and minimizing the risk of irritation.
- Hypoallergenic Nature: Tencel's hypoallergenic properties make it a safe and gentle choice for babies with atopic dermatitis.
Beyond the Fabric: Top Tips for Dressing Babies with Eczema
While choosing the right fabric is vital, there are additional considerations for dressing babies with eczema. Follow the tips below to ensure the utmost comfort for your baby while minimizing eczema symptoms:
- Dress According to the Weather: Adjust layers based on the temperature to prevent overheating or exposure to harsh elements.
- Layer Clothing: Use breathable layers to regulate temperature and reduce the risk of irritation during flare-ups. Our soft, breathable bodysuits make for the perfect base layer.
- Apply Hypoallergenic Emollient Products Before Dressing: Create a protective barrier with creams, lotions, or ointments to minimize eczema symptoms.
- Avoid Harsh Dyes: Opt for clothing with natural or hypoallergenic dyes to prevent skin irritation.
- Consider Design Elements: Choose clothing with designs that avoid potential irritants by including features such as smooth seams and zipper covers.
- Go Tagless: Look for tagless clothing options to minimize contact with potentially irritating elements.
- Wash with Hypoallergenic Laundry Detergent: Choose laundry products designed for sensitive skin to avoid irritation from harsh chemicals or fragrances.
Remember, dressing is just part of the equation. Keep eczema in mind when you shop for bath and bedding products for your baby. Opt for hypoallergenic and fragrance-free soaps and lotions at bath time. Additionally, consider using bedding, including crib sheets and baby blankets, made from eczema-friendly fabrics like Tencel for a holistic approach to caring for your baby’s skin and overall comfort.
Meet Cuddle Sprouts: A Sustainable Luxury Tencel Baby Clothing Brand
At Cuddle Sprouts, we understand the delicate nature of your baby's skin, especially when dealing with conditions like eczema. We put TLC into everything we do, aiding us in our mission to provide clothing that offers a perfect blend of gentleness and cozy comfort to Little Sprouts everywhere.
A Commitment to Delicate Skin and the Planet
Cuddle Sprouts is more than just a brand; it's a commitment to the planet and your baby's well-being. We take pride in our eco-friendly and sustainable practices, ensuring that every product reflects our dedication to providing better options for your baby's skin and contributing to a healthier planet.
Made with Love, Care, and Tencel Lyocell
Our journey begins with extensive research aimed at finding the perfect fabric that aligns with the unique needs of babies’ delicate skin. We are proud to bring you carefully curated collections crafted with Tencel Lyocell fabric ensuring that every piece reflects our commitment to your baby's comfort.
Pamper and Protect Your Baby’s Skin with Tencel Clothing
At Cuddle Sprouts, we know Tencel Lyocell stands out as a superior choice for baby clothes for eczema-prone skin. Our signature TierraLuxe™ fabric is made with TENCEL™ Lyocell to offer an ideal combination of natural softness, breathability, thermoregulation, moisture-wicking properties, and hypoallergenic characteristics ideal for babies’ delicate skin. Choose Cuddle Sprouts to give your baby the comfort and care they deserve while keeping their eczema in check.
Shop our latest Tencel Lyocell collection for baby wardrobe and bedtime essentials, ensuring your baby experiences comfort during sleep, play, and every moment in between.
Reference Links
1. National Eczema Association, Will My Child Outgrow Atopic Dermatitis? What We Know About Disease Persistence
2. American Academy of Dermatology Association, How to Treat Eczema in Babies
3.National Library of Medicine, Fabrics for Atopic Dermatitis
4. National Library of Medicine, Fabric Preferences of Atopic Dermatitis Patients
