Clothing when you have eczema

Short answer: Choose smooth, soft clothing without seams that rub. Clothes cannot treat eczema, but they can avoid making it worse. Always follow the treatment your doctor has recommended, and talk to your doctor if your skin gets worse.

Clothes cannot treat eczema

Clothes cannot treat eczema, and it is right to be honest about that. You agree the treatment with your doctor or dermatologist. But clothes sit against the skin all day, so they can make a difference to how much irritates. Changes in clothing are a supplement, not a replacement for the treatment you already follow.

The three things that irritate

Friction from rough fibres, heat that makes the skin itch, and detergent residue in the fabric. All three can be reduced without changing the treatment. That gives you something concrete to work with in daily life, and you can try one step at a time to see what helps you.

Friction and rough fibres

Rough fibres rub against the skin every time you move, and that can create an irritation that builds up during the day. Coarse wool and stiff fabric are the most common culprits. With eczema, clothes that lie flat and glide over the skin are often easier to tolerate than clothes with a rough surface.

The fabric that bothers least

Smooth fibres such as bamboo viscose lie flat against the skin. Flat seams or seamless models remove the edges that otherwise rub all day. That does not heal the skin, but it gives it fewer things to react to. See bamboo underwear for women as an example of soft clothing that sits close without rubbing.

Cotton or bamboo

Cotton is good, but bamboo viscose is smoother and cooler against the skin. Many people can feel that difference, especially when the skin is warm and irritated. If you have not had problems with cotton, there is no reason to change. If you have, it may be worth trying a smooth alternative as the first layer.

Heat and itching

Heat makes the skin itch, particularly at night and under thick clothes. Choose layers you can take off, and avoid dressing too warmly indoors. A loose, smooth innermost layer means you do not overheat under a thick jumper. See bamboo long sleeve T-shirt for men as an example of a simple innermost layer.

Wash new clothes before use

Wash new clothes before use, so any residue in the fabric is rinsed out before it comes close to the skin. Wash by the care label and let the clothes dry fully before you put them on. It is a simple habit worth keeping if you have sensitive skin or eczema.

Detergent and an extra rinse

Use detergent without perfume and rinse once extra. Detergent residue stays in the fabric and lies against the skin all day. Also avoid strongly scented softener. Change only one thing at a time so you can see what makes a difference, and note what you have tried in case you talk to your doctor about it.

Dyes and certified clothing

If you react to dyes, you can choose Oeko-Tex certified clothing. See Oeko-Tex certified products for the items with that label. It is no guarantee that you will not react, and the skin can still get irritated. Try new clothes carefully and stay with what works for you.

Frequently asked questions

Is cotton best for eczema

Cotton is good, but bamboo viscose is smoother and cooler against the skin. Choose what your skin tolerates best, and ask your doctor if you are in doubt.