Skin Care Comes in Fabric

• Core Facts

Winter can be a tough season for the millions of Americans who suffer from dry skin, itching and rashes. Exposure to dry, cold air and icy winter winds makes the skin condition worse. Traditionally dry skin care treatments have emphasized moisturizing the skin, but research has shown that protection might be a better alternative. Two new research-backed products that protect the skin offer relief for dry skin and eczema sufferers: a new microfiber T-shirt material called Derma Smart that can relieve the itch from dry skin diseases like eczema and a shielding lotion that seals in the skin’s own oil and moisture.

Derma Smart is a unique fabric that glides over the skin's surface and the shirts are specially constructed so that the seams are on the outside. Developed by dermatologists, this fabric dries faster and uses small amounts of silver to prevent bacteria buildup.

Shielding lotion addresses the root cause of dry skin rather than just treating the symptoms. This lotion is a breakthrough within the dermatological field, bonding with the outer layer of the skin to form a protective layer that helps lock in moisture and prevent direct contact with, and the absorption of, harmful chemicals. Dermatologists are recommending shielding lotions instead of conventional lotions.

Dry skin is not just an annoying inconvenience - according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics Survey of Occupational Injuries and Illness, skin disease remains one of the most prevalent occupational health hazards. One of the most common manifestations of this condition is eczema, a disease that affects many workers in the agricultural, forestry and fishing industries. Eczema currently accounts for around 20 per cent of occupational related diseases in the US.

Many older people suffer from dry skin, particularly on their lower legs, elbows and forearms. The skin feels rough and scaly and is often accompanied by a distressing, intense itching. This constant itching and flaking of the skin can be very painful.

If you are one of the 84 million who dread winter dry skin, be skin care smart this year: protect your skin with a shielding lotion and don a Derma Smart T-shirt.
 

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