Top Tips for an Eczema-Friendly Halloween

Days from now, little goblins and ghouls will be making their way around the neighborhood for tasty treats (and maybe even a few tricks). But as explained in this piece from the National Eczema Association, Halloween presents a scary challenge for those with skin conditions. Just think about the masks, makeup, itchy costumes, and candy. Put those all together for one night and you’re essentially inviting a flare-up to take place. Keep reading for tips on how to ensure that your child enjoys Halloween without worrying about eczema.

1. Pick the right costume - Your child’s Halloween costume should be loose-fitting and made with breathable fabrics. Many options in stores and online involve fabrics of wool, nylon, or other stiff material. Unfortunately, these costumes will likely irritate the skin, resulting in more itchiness and discomfort. That’s why knowing what materials are safe and easy to use is key. In the majority of cases, homemade costumes/makeup are cheaper than store bought and can be used again throughout the year.
2. Steer clear of face paint - Maybe your little one wants to go trick-or-treating this year dressed as a little princess or fairy. While both make great choices, many parents choose to add face paint for freckles or lipstick. Do your best to avoid face paint and anything that’s hot or scratchy.
3. Pay attention to any environmental triggers - It could be that your child will be going to several Halloween parties either before or after trick-or-treating. Watch those food allergies closely! The last thing you want is for them to eat something that contains eggs, milk, peanuts, soy, etc. and wind up heading home before the real fun begins. Don’t think that food allergies are your only concern, though. Note that there could be hay and other allergens around Halloween settings.
4. Wear clothing under your costume if it’s an itchy or plastic type of material - Maybe the biggest mistake you can make with your child on Halloween is letting them go out with no clothes on underneath their costume. It probably won’t be long before they’re itchy, uncomfortable, and ready to go home. We recommend they wear therapeutic clothing for eczema underneath their costume to prevent this from happening. At Soothems, our garments help reduce itchiness by protecting the skin’s moisture levels, controlling bacteria growth, and soothing the skin during recovery. Made from TEWLTect smart fabric, our eczema clothing offers maximum wearing comfort because the yarns are soft, pliable, smooth, and friction-free to reduce chafing.
5. Avoid heavy costumes - Note that heavy, polyester costumes and eczema don’t mix. Even if it’s going to be cold for trick-or-treating, have a plan in place so your child doesn’t sweat or overheat. More and more parents today prefer a bodysuit type costume as opposed to the traditional full body one.   
6. Be prepared to go home at any point - You will do whatever possible to ensure that your child enjoys Halloween. Maybe that means going great lengths to put together a costume they not only love but will also feel comfortable in while trick-or-treating. But things happen. Something you never thought of may lead to a flare-up just a few minutes into the fun. Allow your son or daughter to guide you, as far as tolerance, for the whole evening. Even if you only make a handful of houses, remember to be understanding. Don’t hesitate to make your way back home no matter who you’re with or where you are.
7. Get rid of candy that may worsen symptoms - Once your child is home, work with them in setting aside candy they can’t eat. Instead of focusing on what needs to be thrown away, celebrate all the gluten-free treats they can enjoy! The gluten-free candy list includes:

• Hershey’s (Almond Joy, Mounds, Milk Duds, Heath Bars, Payday, and all Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups except for unwrapped minis and seasonal shapes)
• Mars Chocolate (M&M’s, Dove, Snickers, 3 Musketeers)
• Nestle (Goobers, Nips, Raisinets, Baby Ruth, Laffy Taffy)
• Tootsie Roll
• Smarties
• Wrigley (Lifesavers, Skittles, Starburst)
• Jelly Belly
• Necco

About Soothems Eczema Clothing

Our team founded Soothems with one mission in mind: Improve the quality of life for children suffering from sensitive skin conditions such as eczema. Through the use of innovative product designs and smart textiles, we want to provide soothing, long-lasting relief from symptoms that can be unbearable at times. We’re often asked from folks, “What’s so special about our garments?” Well, Soothems are made from a proprietary smart fabric known as TEWLTect, a blend of high performance sustainable, polymer fibers enhanced with Chitosan and Zinc Oxide. The curative properties of this smart fabric provide a positive, soothing effect when the skin naturally releases moisture. Parents can feel comfortable knowing that Soothems garments can be used as an occlusive barrier either wet or dry, with or without emollients, as well as in conjunction with topical steroids prescribed a medical professional. We are proud to offer a number of high-quality products, including:

• Eczema suits
• Eczema sleeves
• Eczema sleepwear
• Eczema bottoms

But we don’t just love our product. Our team believes in the therapeutic power of an imaginative story that entertains, empathizes, and normalizes life with eczema and other skin conditions. Here’s what we’re talking about. Have your child put on their Soothems garment and then read them one of our special bedtime story books. The combination of the garment with the magic disappearing print and our books will certainly delight and comfort your child to a more restful night’s sleep. As a result, your entire family will be less stressed and happier in the morning.

With Soothems, there’s less itch and more smile! Shop our products today.