Atopic dermatitis/eczema is a chronic relapsing inflammatory skin condition that usually starts during the first months of life and can continue into adulthood. It impairs the barrier function of the epidermis which can result in trans-epidermal water loss and the penetration of environmental allergens into the skin which set off immunological reactions and inflammation. In addition, the stratum corneum is highly susceptible to colonisation by various bacteria, mainly staphylococcus aureus which can exacerbate skin inflammation by secreting superantigens which further activate inflammatory cells.
Control of these factors is important for effective management of the disease and whilst emollients and steroids are the mainstay of treatment, clothing can also be considered as an additional part of the everyday eczema treatment regime.
DermaSilk is made from knitted sericin-free silk. This ensures that it is hypo-allergenic and the knit of the fabric allows air and moisture to pass through it. It also has a greater ability to absorb and disperse moisture than cotton, making it a natural candidate for an atopic friendly fabric. Finally, the incorporation of an ‘antimicrobial shield’ permanently bonded to the fabric protects the silk from antimicrobial attack.
By simply adding DermaSilk to your eczema management you will have less inflamed skin, reduced itch and overall will feel more comfortable in turn leading to a better quality of life. If you’re still unsure, please have a look at this link to see what others say.
Long Term Use of DermaSilk vs Cotton
In a study lasting 2 years children wearing DermaSilk were compared to children wearing indentically styled underwear and a record of their topical steroid usage was recorded for both groups. After 2 years of almost continuous use the children wearing DermaSilk had used 60% less topical steroids than their cotton wearing couterparts – reflecting a significant drop in flare frequency and severity. The authors concluded that the use of silk clothes may be useful in the long term management of atopic dermatitis in children, a conclusion that has been supported by a number of other studies. Please see our Clinical Trials section for full information.
There is a sound evidence base to show that DermaSilk should be the fabric of choice for children and adults with atopic dermatitis.
- Children itch less, sleep better and are more alert during the day
- Parents get more concentrated sleep and have fewer battles with children and their medications
- Adults have a better quality of life as the symptoms are better controlled
- Eczema flares are less severe and less frequent when wearing DermaSilk
- Fewer flares means fewer trips to the GP and possibly fewer hospital referrals
