We all want our little ones to look stylish and comfortable, but parents of kids with eczema have to be extra careful with their kids' clothing and everything that goes on their skin. That’s because everything that touches their skin, from fabrics to moisturisers, can either bring comfort or exacerbate the condition.
Eczema, or atopic dermatitis, can appear anywhere on the body, but certain areas like the feet are commonly affected by this skin condition. Foot eczema can be triggered by several factors, including wrong fabrics, skin care products, or detergents that can lead to flare-ups. This said you want to choose laundry detergents that are fragrance-free and hypoallergenic to minimize irritation and organic kids socks made from natural, breathable materials.
How Socks Can Impact Foot Eczema
Eczema-prone skin and synthetic materials often don’t go hand in hand. Synthetic fabrics like polyester, nylon, and acrylic, are known to trap heat and moisture against the skin, which can further enhance itchiness and irritation. Also, many of these fabrics are treated with dyes and finishes that can also irritate sensitive skin. Thankfully there are safer alternatives, like kids' socks made from organic cotton, bamboo, or merino wool. These are breathable and natural, free from harmful chemicals, dyes, and pesticides.
Organic merino wool in particular can be an excellent option for eczema sufferers. Although traditional wool has rough fibres that can feel prickly and may cause itching and irritation, organic kids' socks made from superfine Merino wool are softer and gentler on the skin than traditional wool.
Some studies even suggest that superfine Merino wool can help alleviate the symptoms of eczema in children. So if you’ve always appreciated the timeless charm and unmatched warmth of woollen garments for kids but are scared of irritation, you no longer need to avoid Merino wool clothing and accessories.
Plus, kid’s socks made from Merino wool that hasn't been treated with synthetic pesticides, dyes, and fertilizers, means that you’ll have peace of mind knowing they're free from harsh chemicals. Garment free from harsh substances should be a staple in everyone's wardrobe but this is especially important for kids with eczema-prone skin whose barrier has already been compromised.
On top of all this, organic merino wool socks are moisture-wicking, breathable, and temperature-regulating. Heat can also be a big trigger for children and adults with eczema, but thankfully temperature-regulating socks can ensure optimum comfort and avoid overheating.
Tips for Choosing the Right Pair
Since synthetic colours can also cause skin irritation, whenever possible you want to choose undyed options like plain white kids' woollen socks. However, if you or your little one loves bright and vivid colours, there's no need to settle for harmful synthetic dyes. Organic Merino wool socks treated with plant-based dyes offer a safer alternative. These paints are made by extracting colour from leaves, roots, woods, flowers, insects, and minerals, to create rich and unique hues. These beautiful and natural hues often come from ingredients like indigo, turmeric, hibiscus, pomegranate, and lavender, adding a natural aesthetic to your little one’s wardrobe while helping to keep eczema at bay.
Wash Socks Properly
Now that you have chosen the right pair of organic kids' socks, it’s crucial to maintain them in tip-top condition while looking after your little one’s skin. Opt for mild, hypoallergenic, and fragrance-free detergents since many traditional products can contain harsh chemicals, artificial fragrances, or dyes that can irritate sensitive skin. There are many detergents specifically labelled for sensitive skin and individuals with eczema.
Hand washing in lukewarm water can also help maintain the longevity and vibrancy of plant-dyed Merino wool socks and clothing. Also, you also want to let them air dry flat to avoid shrinking or warping.
Use Emollients Before Wearing Socks
All parents of kids with eczema know you can never moisturise too much. So, now it’s the perfect time to remind you that consistent moisturising with emollients is the most effective way to protect and soothe your child’s skin.
Find an emollient that best works for your little one’s skin. This may be a process of trial and error since each child’s skin reacts differently to various products. What works for one child might not work for another, so it may take some time to find the perfect skincare solution.
In general, hypoallergenic, fragrance-free moisturisers formulated with natural ingredients like oatmeal, coconut oil, and shea butter, are considered soothing and nourishing for eczema skin. However, if your child has food allergies, which is pretty common in children with eczema, moisturisers that contain ingredients derived from the foods they are allergic to should be avoided. These ingredients, although safe for many, can sometimes trigger reactions in children with sensitivities.
Once you've found the right emollient for your child's skin, remember to apply it at least two to three times a day to maintain hydration and protect the skin barrier.
