AUSTRALIAN Wool Innovation (AWI) research has demonstrated wearing superfine Merino wool next to the skin is therapeutic for those suffering from the chronic skin condition eczema.
The research added to a growing number of findings supporting the health and wellbeing benefits of wool products.
"A major focus of AWI’s Fibre Advocacy investment program is validating the health and wellbeing benefits of wool products," chief executive Stuart McCullough said.
"With eight per cent of consumers not buying wool because they consider it itchy, it is important to challenge these myths and champion wool's therapeutic benefits.”
Eczema now affects 20 to 30 per cent of children.
Dermatology trials have shown that adult and infant eczema sufferers have reduced symptoms when wearing superfine Merino wool garments next to the skin.
When worn next to skin, superfine Merino wool works as a dynamic buffer, helping maintain a more stable humidity and temperature in the micro-climate between the fabric and the skin.
It appears superfine Merino wool acts like a second skin for these people whose ‘first’ skin is too dry.
