Those with eczema know all too well that summer heat doesn’t mix well with eczema-prone skin. Hot temperatures can aggravate the skin’s barrier, causing a flare-up or itchiness. While there’s not much we can do about the heat, changing our clothes to more breathable can be a game-changer. Moisture-wicking, breezy fabrics can make all the difference, and all the dermatologists we talked to tell us they recommend linen for eczema. However, linen is notorious for being an expensive fabric, but we found a brand that’s a goldmine for affordable linen pieces: Quince.
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Why is linen so great for eczema and acne-prone skin?
“Linen is a great option for eczema and acne-prone skin,” says Leah Ansell, MD, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Rye, New York. “First, it has high moisture absorptivity, which means it absorbs sweat well. Second, it is a stiffer fabric, which allows for space between the body and clothing for better ventilation and cooling.”
Similar to cotton, linen is considered to be hypoallergenic and because the fabric is highly absorbent and prevents sweat from accumulating on the skin, which can be an irritant to eczema or cause breakouts, she adds. Beloved for everyday basics and a W+G editor favorite, Quince is ripe with linen basics, from jumpsuits to trousers to dresses. For example, by doing a quick Google search, you’ll find that most quality linen jumpsuits are priced between $100 and $130, but Quince’s Linen Square Neck Jumpsuit is reasonably priced at $60 (a win-win for your skin and your wallet).
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And there’s more where that came from. We scoured Quince’s site and found the best linen pieces that’ll keep your skin happy while staving off sweaty skin.
European Linen Square Neck Jumpsuit — $60.00
Sizes available: XS-XL
This reasonably-priced jumpsuit will take the guesswork out of choosing an outfit for the day. Made of 100 percent linen, this jumpsuit is breathable, has a loose-fitting silhouette, and doesn’t irritate my sensitive skin. As a short gal, I love how this jumpsuit falls right at my ankles, and the jumpsuit comes with a tie belt to accentuate my waist. Easy to wear, breezy, and timeless, this jumpsuit is going to be my go-to outfit for summery days and nights out (I’ve worn it several times and already got compliments on it).
Colors: 5
European Linen Short Sleeve Shirt — $35.00
Sizes available: XS-XL
If you’re looking for an easy-to-wear top that reads “put together,” look no further than Quince’s Short Sleeve Shirt. This shirt can level up any fit with its button-up design and polished collar. It has a boxy fit to vent hot air on scorching summer days when the sun’s ablaze, and the 100 percent linen composition wicks away moisture and sweat. What’s more, the shirt is OEKO-TEX certified, so it’s unlikely to irritate sensitive or eczema-prone skin. I paired my shirt with Quince’s Linen Pants for the ultimate breezy outfit.
Colors: 11
European Linen Pants — $40.00
Sizes available: XS-XL
For days when you’re on the go go go, I’d recommend slipping on Quince’s Linen Pants. This pair is constructed out of 100 percent flax linen, so it’s super breathable to wear. As someone with thicker thighs, some pants can make my thighs feel constricted, but not these. Over time, the linen stretches, and the elastic waistband renders these pants even more comfortable to wear (if you’re looking for something more form-fitting, I wouldn’t suggest these). Lounging around the house or leisure activities outdoors—these linen pants will ward off sweat and keep you cool no matter how toasty things get.
Colors: 10
European Linen Sleeveless Swing Dress — $60.00
Sizes available: XS-XL
Whether you’re heading to the farmer’s market or taking a walk outside, you’ll feel breezy and comfy and receive a deluge of compliments in this Sleeveless Swing Dress. It’s lightweight, made of breathable linen, and has two functional pockets, so you won’t need to carry around a purse. What’s more, it has a loose silhouette, so you’re never starved of air flow. Pair it with some comfy sandals and accessorize with a sun hat for a casual look.
Colors: 5
European Linen High Waisted Short — $30.00
Sizes available: XS-XL
Nothing screams “summer” than a pair of linen shorts—and this pair delivers “vacation in Santorini, Greece” vibes. Crop tops pair well with the short’s high-waisted fit, and the shorts have a built-in elasticated waistband that makes putting this pair on an easy endeavor. If you’re heading outside, pair these shorts with a flow-y top and some podiatrist-approved sandals for ultimate comfort.
Colors: 3
European Linen Trapeze Midi Dress — $70.00
Sizes available: XS-XL
For something fun and flirty, Quince’s Linen Trapeze Dress is a must! The fabric is made of 100 percent linen, so the dress is easy and breezy to wear. The elasticated back makes it easy to throw over a swimsuit, and the straps are adjustable, so that you can tailor the fit to you. You can wear it on date night, summer picnics, or ice cream runs.
Colors: 3
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