Miracle Fiber Merino Wool: A Relief for Eczema
Chronic skin problems such as eczema can affect your quality of life. Discover how the natural properties of merino wool can help sensitive skin.
Skin rashes and severe itching significantly impair quality of life, especially when they occur chronically. In this article, you will learn what eczema is and how natural materials such as merino wool can help relieve it.
What is eczema?
Eczema – also known medically as atopic dermatitis – is a chronic skin condition that causes itchy, reddened and inflamed areas of skin. It particularly affects areas where the skin folds, such as the backs of the knees and elbows.
Recent studies show that in over 40% of cases, eczema only appears in adulthood. In Europe and the USA, around 1-3% of the population is affected.
Typical symptoms include red, scaly patches of skin with severe itching, dry skin and possible crusting in areas that have been scratched.
Causes of eczema
The causes are varied and include genetic and environmental factors. Many sufferers have a deficiency of the protein filaggrin, which is important for the skin barrier.
Possible triggers include:
- Ingredients in household cleaners, detergents or perfumes
- Extreme temperatures
- Hard water
- Certain textiles and materials
Effects on everyday life
The constant itching makes restful sleep almost impossible. Chronic sleep deprivation affects physical and mental health. Unconscious scratching can lead to skin injuries and infections. Many sufferers also feel self-conscious about the appearance of their skin, and sports or swimming can be challenging due to sweat and friction.
Treatment and care
Eczema cannot be cured, but it can be treated. Important: If you have skin problems, you should always consult a dermatologist, who will make an individual diagnosis and recommend the appropriate treatment.
Supportive measures can include:
- Skin care with fragrance-free products for sensitive skin
- Detergents for sensitive skin
- Clothing made from skin-friendly, natural materials
Why can merino wool help with eczema?
Current dermatological studies from the USA and Australia are investigating the positive properties of merino wool for people with sensitive skin.
Moisture regulation: Merino wool can absorb and release about twice as much moisture as cotton, helping to protect the skin from additional dehydration.
Temperature regulation: The fibre adapts to different temperatures and keeps the body temperature constant – this is particularly beneficial in the case of temperature fluctuations, which can trigger eczema flare-ups.
Natural properties: Merino wool has antibacterial properties that can reduce the risk of further skin irritation.
What makes merino wool so special?
Unlike conventional sheep's wool, merino wool is exceptionally fine and soft. The individual fibres are only about 16.5 to 24 micrometres thick – normal sheep's wool, on the other hand, measures 37 to 40 micrometres.
The human sensitivity threshold is around 25-30 micrometres. This is why many woollen jumpers are itchy, while merino wool feels pleasantly soft against the skin.
Merino products from GIESSWEIN
At GIESSWEIN, we process high-quality merino wool into skin-friendly products:
Merino wool jumpers: Our jumpers made from ultra-fine merino wool envelop your upper body in soft, natural fibres. Their temperature-regulating properties can help prevent your skin from drying out.
Merino shoes: Our shoes made from merino wool offer breathable properties and natural comfort with temperature-regulating features for a pleasant foot climate.
Merino wool cannot cure eczema, but the natural properties of the fibre can potentially help make everyday life with sensitive skin more comfortable.
Important: Merino wool is not a substitute for medical treatment. If you have skin problems, you should always consult a dermatologist.
Discover the variety of our merino wool products and see for yourself the properties of this natural fibre.
