Winter Clothes & Your Skin!
Winter can be a nightmare for your skin. Even if you don’t have eczema or psoriasis, the combination of heavy winter clothes, central heating, and dry air can leave you feeling itchy, overheated, and downright uncomfortable. But did you know that the clothes you wear could actually trigger flare-ups of eczema, dermatitis, or psoriasis?
The good news? You don’t have to suffer through the season. With a few simple tweaks to your wardrobe and skincare routine, you can keep the winter itch under control. Here are 7 top tips to help you stay comfortable and flare-up-free:
1. Choose the Right Fabric
Not all fabrics are created equal when it comes to sensitive skin. While some people can tolerate synthetics, natural fibers like cotton, silk, and bamboo are generally the safest bets for eczema-prone skin. Avoid rough or allergenic materials like wool, linen, and hemp, and steer clear of polyester and other synthetics. Think soft, smooth, and skin-friendly!
2. Keep It Loose and Light
Tight or heavy clothing can rub against delicate skin, causing irritation and triggering the urge to scratch. Opt for loose, breathable outfits like:
1. Dresses without itchy waistbands
2. Dungarees or oversized trousers
3. Long-sleeved tops and loose cotton leggings
4. Tunics, smock tops, or pinafore dresses
5. Knee socks instead of tights
3. Don’t Overheat
Sweating can worsen skin irritation, as the salts left behind can act as irritants. To avoid flare-ups, dress in light, breathable layers that you can easily remove if you get too warm. This is especially important if you’re moving between chilly outdoor air and overheated indoor spaces.
4. Pre-Wash Clothes in Hypoallergenic Detergent
New (or secondhand) clothes often contain dyes, pesticides, or formaldehyde that can irritate sensitive skin. Always wash them in a hypoallergenic detergent before wearing to remove potential triggers.
5. Watch Out for Extras
It’s not just the fabric—labels, glittery threads, seams, and synthetic embellishments can turn a cozy outfit into an itchy nightmare. For kids with eczema, look for seam-free, glitter-free clothing with labels printed on the outside. And don’t forget to remind well-meaning relatives about these sensitivities when they’re buying gifts!
6. Change and Wash Clothes Often
Natural fabrics like cotton can harbour microbes, which is the last thing you want on sensitive skin. Change your clothes regularly, especially after sweating or applying oily emollients, and wash them at a high temperature with a hypoallergenic detergent.
7. Explore High-Tech Fabrics
Did you know there are fabrics designed specifically for sensitive skin? From antibacterial-infused materials to silver-woven baby sleepsuits, these innovative options can help reduce irritation and prevent infections. Look for hypoallergenic modified silk or cotton that feels like a second skin.
Bonus Tip: Soothe Your Skin with Seb
While these wardrobe tips can help, don’t forget to give your skin some extra TLC this winter. Seb’s Calming Serum and Soothing Balm are here to rescue your skin from dryness, redness, and irritation. Whether you’re dealing with eczema, psoriasis, or just winter itch, our products are formulated to hydrate, repair, and calm your skin.
Ready to say goodbye to winter itch? Try Seb today and give your skin the care it deserves!
