National Eczema Week
Let’s start the conversation
Over the past week, here at Kite we have been raising awareness of eczema as part of National Eczema Week in the UK.
Keep reading to meet our mini model who's making a difference, learn how organic cotton can help, pick up some handy tips and discover specially designed eczema-friendly styles from our friends at Eczema Clothing, along with some Kite favourites.
Our marvellous mini model
Meet Ezra who, like 1 in 5 children, is living with eczema (did you know it affects 1 in 10 adults too?)
When Ezra joined us to model recently, he and his Mum shared their experiences of dealing with eczema and what he's doing to raise awareness. This October, Ezra is lacing up his trainers for a charity run to support Eczema Outreach Support.
Keep up the great work with your training, Ezra - we're cheering you on! (Donations are welcome here.)
Let's talk about eczema
Eczema is a non-contagious skin condition that causes itching and dryness. Managing it often requires a good skincare routine, including using soap substitutes, applying emollients and topical steroids and identifying triggers. Cold weather, swimming, diet, clothing and laundry can all lead to flare-ups.
Finding the right routine for your family can take some trial and error, as what works for one person might not work for another.
The National Eczema Society has lots of advice on managing triggers at home, and we've got some tips below on how clothing and laundry choices can make a big difference.
Clothing
Lots of people with eczema find clothes made from cotton more comfortable to wear. Man-made fibres and wool can be hot, causing sweating and irritation, which leads to itching. Rough seams and labels can also be a problem.
Top tips
1) Try wearing soft, breathable fabrics such as cotton and silk.
2) Cut out any labels that irritate the skin.
3) Wear layers that can easily be taken off to avoid getting too hot.
Eczema Clothing
We're excited to share that you can now find Kite at Eczema Clothing.
With over 40 years of expertise in caring for sensitive skin, they offer a fantastic range of their own specialist clothing for both children and adults with eczema or other itchy skin conditions.
Their pioneering range has been thoughtfully designed, featuring flat seams, integral mittens, labels on the outside, cotton covered elastic and close fitting cuffs.
Head over to their website to check out their organic cotton eczema-friendly styles - you might even spot some of your Kite favourites alongside too!
What our customers say
We regularly receive positive feedback from our customers about how our organic cotton styles (many without sewn-in labels) offer next-to-skin comfort and have a positive effect on their little one's eczema.
ElaineTights my little girl with terrible eczema can actually wear without itching! She is so happy and never wants to take them off.
JenniferBeautiful clothing for children & so well made. As one of my grandchildren has eczema, organic cotton is perfect for him.
Laundry
It's not all about the clothing, how you wash it can make a big difference. Many people with eczema prefer non-biological washing powder as the enzymes in biological washing powders and liquids can irritate sensitive skin.
Top tips
1) Try to avoid fabric conditioner as it can leave a residue.
2) Add an extra rinse cycle to your wash to ensure all detergent is removed.
3) Once a month, do an empty wash at 90˚C using a biological washing powder to clear any emollient build up from your washing machine.
We hope that you have found our blog helpful. If your little one is dealing with eczema and you're looking for expert information and advice, visit the National Eczema Society.
Please note: The information in this blog has not been provided by medical professionals. If you have any medical concerns, we recommend consulting your GP.