Skin Care World

Garments give five year old confidence to cope with eczema.

Five year old Rebecca Tyler first developed dry, red, inflamed skin as a baby and mum Emma, who also suffers from the condition, quickly recognised the signs of eczema.

Today eczema covers Rebecca’s face and body and having recently started school, she is increasingly aware of being ‘different’.

Following advice from the dermatology department at The University Hospital of Wales in Cardiff, Emma tried wet wrapping Rebecca’s skin to try and get the flare ups under control. Whilst the combination of thick moisturising cream covered by cool, wet bandages provided a soothing effect and temporary respite from the painful itch, Rebecca hated wearing bandages and became embarrassed when people noticed them.

“As soon as Tubifast garments became available the nurses at our dermatology ward recommended them to us. It had become very difficult to wet wrap Rebecca who was agitated by her skin. Getting her to be still and calm whilst I carefully measured out the bandages, cut them to fit, pulled them on and tied them up was a big struggle and resulted in lapses in the treatment. Garments are so much easier. Rebecca wears them as normal undergarments, day and night and feels far less conspicuous than she did wearing bandages.

“We’ve seen a real boost in her confidence since wearing garments. Rebecca understands that she needs to wear them to make her skin better and she’s far more tolerant of wet wrapping with them.“

Rebecca is one of thousands of children being introduced to Tubifast Garments - two-way stretch vests, tights, leggings and socks which can be worn on top of a thick layer of emollient (medical moisturiser) to keep the skin moist – a vital part of eczema management.

“Rebecca started school last year and just like all little girls, she wanted to fit in with her friends. Wearing bandages to school made her feel different and it was important to us to find a solution that kept her skin hydrated but didn’t impact too much on her life,” said Emma.

Unlike bandages, Tubifast garments are re-useable and can be washed and tumble dried after each use. Emma stocks up on them when she visits her GP and finds 3 pairs of leggings and body suits lasts for one month.”

The names have been changed for the privacy of the individuals mentioned.