If you are suffering from eczema or psoriasis on your palms, hands, fingers, or nails, getting through the day can be tough and uncomfortable. Not only because of the itchiness, but also because your hands are one of your most actively-used body parts. You use your hands to pick things up, to type, to open things, to change into clothes, and so much more. This makes it challenging to get through everyday life without further irritating your condition.
Thankfully, there’s a variety of eczema gloves to stop scratching. Discover why eczema gloves are important to healing eczema, as well as how they can stop you from scratching.
Please keep in mind that although what we discuss in this post can relieve eczema, we are in no way medical professionals. If you’re experiencing severe eczema symptoms like an infection, it is best to seek medical advice immediately.
The Importance of Protecting your Hands
One of the biggest triggers of eczema is contact with allergens and other irritating substances. Thisexplains why those who work in cleaning, healthcare, mechanics, and catering are more prone to flare-ups.
If you notice a sudden flare-up after washing the dishes, doing the laundry, or even showering, it’s most likely because of a chemical found in the shampoo, soap, or laundry detergent you used. Unless you use a natural product, over-the-counter products generally contain harsh toxins that can trigger a bad reaction or dry out your hands. This is why protecting your hands is so crucial!
For more tips on protecting your hands, check out our post: 5 “Handy” Ways to Keep Hands Eczema Under Control.
Why You Should Wear Gloves for Eczema
As much as we love natural creams and sprays, sometimes your skin needs a little something more. Moisturizers are great for keeping the area hydrated and moist for the short term, but wearing gloves really helps lock in the moisture which then promotes faster healing.
Wearing gloves also provides a layer of protection from all the elements your hands are exposed to on a daily basis which, in turn, will lead to fewer flare-ups. This is especially important if you suffer from contact eczema (because of soaps or other irritants). By wearing gloves you can skip the soap – which tends to dry out your skin – and give your hands some much-needed relief.
Finally, gloves help prevent scratching – especially during the night when you have less control over your actions and may be scratching unknowingly.
Check out our post How to Choose Clothing for Sensitive Skin for more helpful tips on protecting your skin.
What to Look for in Eczema Gloves to Stop Scratching
So, how do you choose the best eczema gloves to stop scratching? Unfortunately, 100% cotton gloves can stretch over time, losing their shape and making them less effective. We recommend you look for the following qualities:
- Thin, breathable, natural material: Bamboo, cotton, and TENCEL are great fabrics for eczema prone skin because they are soft, durable and breathable. You also want to find hypoallergenic material so that you don’t do more harm than good. Finally, be sure to wear gloves with natural moisture-wicking properties. Thelast thing you need is for sweat to further aggravate your eczema!
- Stretchy fabric. Your gloves will last longer and maintain a nice fitted shape if they contain elastane or latex. Be careful though, as latex can be a top irritant for sensitive skin. If you have a latex allergy, look for latex-free elastane.
Remedywear Black Eczema Gloves
Black Remedywear™ Gloves for Adults – These form-fitting black eczema gloves are made with eco-friendly TENCEL and embedded with anti-inflammatory zinc which is clinically proven to improve eczema and reduce itching. They are perfect for treating nail psoriasis, cracked skin, or hand eczema thanks to their breathable, moisture-wicking and latex free elastic that provides a comfy stretch.
Black Remedywear™ Kid Gloves – We know it can be tricky to get kids to stop scratching, especially when they’re plagued with the frustrating urge to itch. That’s why we find these kid gloves such a life-saver! With a stretchy fit that extends just past the wrists, these Remedywear gloves wrap hands in soft, breathable fabric that fits like a second skin. Your little one can find relief wearing these gloves during day or night as their moisture-wicking properties and durable fabric prevents chafing.
We love Remedywear™ products because they are great for treating hand eczema or psoriasis without the need for wet wrapping. Simply wear the gloves over an emollient overnight and find soothing relief for itchy skin conditions on your palms, fingers, or wrists. This technique is called “dry wrapping” and is extremely effective at protecting the skin and locking in moisture.
For optimal results, apply a natural moisturizer (we love this Organic Manuka Skin Soothing Cream!) and then wear gloves overnight. When you remove the gloves in the morning, reapply the moisturizer and continue to wear the gloves throughout the day. Within 24-48 hours, you should start to notice a difference in your skin!
Have you found relief by wearing eczema gloves? Let us know!
References:
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/14417.php
https://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/eczema/qa/how-can-gloves-help-to-prevent-eczema