DERMATITIS

The terms eczema and dermatitis are often used interchangeably to describe the same condition. Dermatitis is characterized by a rash, dryness of skin, itching, and redness of skin. The symptoms of dermatitis occur due to the over production of damaging inflammatory skin cells and continue to worsen as a result of certain factors in the environment.

Tuesday, February 28, 2006

Fabric to Soothe Eczema

Making contact with almost any fabric can be an agonizing experience for people who suffer from itchy, drysensitive skin caused by eczema, atopic dermatitis, or psoriasis, conditions which affect over 30 million people of all ages nationwide. Now, a breakthrough fabric called DermaSmart(TM) created by Milliken & Companypromises to reduce itching and the appearance of dryness, peeling and scaling commonly associated with these skin conditions.

Traditionally, people with skin conditions are treated with either oral or topical drugs, or a combination of both. DermaSmart offers an additional method for symptom relief. "DermaSmart has demonstrated in lab tests and instudies with patients to be a better choice of fabrics than the traditionally-recommended 100% cotton, both for comfort and for relief of symptoms," said Lyn Murajda, Brand Manager for the Apparel & Specialty FabricsDivision of Milliken.
DermaSmart is a silky, soft, breathable fabric that significantly reduces the friction or drag of the fabric against the skin.
* DermaSmart has been proven to help reduce itching and the appearance of dryness, scaling and peeling.
* DermaSmart fabric absorbs excess perspiration and disperses it through the fabric so it dries quickly, keeping the wearer comfortable.
* DermaSmart fabric contains silver, which is a safe, natural antimicrobial that prevents the growth of odor-causing bacteria.

Additionally, DermaSmart clothing is designed with superior comfort attributes. Each shirt and pant has smooth, flat seams and a "tagless" sizelabel, and the pants have covered waistbands, features which keep the clothing construction from irritating the skin.

Dermatologist Tested
"Two of the most vexing problems confronting patients with eczema, atopic dermatitis and psoriasis, aside from their disease, are how to dress and howto get a good night's sleep," explains Zoe Diana Draelos, M.D., adermatologist based in High Point, North Carolina. "And clothing plays a large contributing role in this. Wearing a smoother, less irritating fabric directly against the patient's skin helps to reduce the irritation and itching, and this allows the oral and topical treatments to work more efficiently."
In 2003, Dr. Draelos completed a study with patients who had eczema, atopic dermatitis or psoriasis, to compare 100% combed cotton t-shirts toDermaSmart. She concluded that, "The study demonstrated statistically significant improvement in skin condition and decreased itching" in the patients who wore the DermaSmart shirts. The symptoms it improved specifically were itching, and the appearance of dryness, scaling and peeling. A clinical study she completed in early 2006 further verified these results.

DermaSmart garments are now available through Hill Dermaceuticals, Inc.,in infant, children and adult sizes in several silhouettes, including long sleeved shirts and lounge pants. The garments are recommended for use as pajamas, and for base layers to wear under everyday clothing or exercise gear.To order call toll free 1-888-445-5468, or go online to http://www.DermaSmart.com.