For sensitive skin, look for pajamas that are loose, soft and breathable, made from natural fibers like cotton, washed before you wear them and free of scratchy tags. For eczema-prone skin, a common recommendation is loose-fitting 100% cotton clothing, and never wearing wool next to the skin.
This article is general information, not medical advice. If you have eczema or another skin condition, ask your dermatologist what is right for you.
What should you look for in pajamas for sensitive skin?
- A loose fit. Avoid tight clothing.
- Soft, breathable, natural fibers. Choose soft, breathable clothing made of natural materials; wool, latex and synthetic fabrics are common eczema triggers.
- No tags. Buy clothing without tags, or remove them.
- Seams that don't rub. If a seam irritates your skin, try covering it with silk.
- Clean before wearing. Wash new clothes before you wear them.
- A gentle detergent. Use a fragrance-free and dye-free laundry detergent.
Which pajama fabrics are gentlest on sensitive skin?
| Fabric | What to know | Eberjey option |
|---|---|---|
| Cotton | Loose-fitting 100% cotton clothing is a common recommendation for eczema-prone skin. | Organic Pima Cotton Long PJ Set, $228: 100% organic Pima cotton, relaxed fit |
| Silk | Silk can be used to cover seams that irritate the skin. | Inez Washable Silk Long PJ Set, $298: 100% mulberry silk, verified by OEKO-TEX® Standard 100 |
| TENCEL™ Modal | The eczema clothing guidance we reviewed doesn't mention modal. The cross-section of TENCEL™ Modal fibers favors fabric softness. | Gisele TENCEL™ Modal Long PJ Set, $158: 95% LENZING™ TENCEL™ Modal and 5% elastane, verified by OEKO-TEX® Standard 100 |
| Wool | Wool is a common eczema trigger; avoid wearing it next to your skin. | — |
| Synthetics | Synthetic fabrics are among common eczema triggers. | Our TENCEL™ Modal sets contain 5% elastane for stretch. If synthetics bother you, choose 100% cotton or silk. |
What does OEKO-TEX® Standard 100 tell you?
OEKO-TEX® Standard 100 is a label for textiles tested for harmful substances. Every thread, button and accessory of a certified product is tested against a list of over 1,000 harmful substances, and the requirements are stricter the more intensive the skin contact. Certificates are issued for one year.
It tells you a product was tested for harmful substances. It does not tell you how a fabric will feel on your skin, so fiber, fit, seams and washing still matter. Read more in What Is OEKO-TEX Certification?
How should you wash pajamas for sensitive skin?
- Wash new pajamas before the first wear.
- Use a fragrance-free, dye-free detergent.
- Follow the care label. Our Organic Pima Cotton sets go in the machine cold on a gentle cycle, inside out, and tumble dry low; Washable Silk can be hand washed or machine washed cold on a delicate cycle and laid flat to dry.
Shop the edit
- Organic Pima Cotton Long PJ Set in Sandstone, $228. Sizes XS–XL.
- Organic Pima Cotton Short Sleeve & Pant PJ Set in Ivory, $228. Sizes XS–XL.
- Inez Washable Silk Long PJ Set in Navy/Champagne, $298. Sizes XS–XL.
- Gisele TENCEL™ Modal Long PJ Set in Navy/Ivory, $158. Sizes XXS–XXL.
Frequently asked questions
What are the best pajamas for sensitive skin?
Look for loose, soft, breathable clothing in natural fibers, washed before wearing and without scratchy tags. For eczema-prone skin, loose-fitting 100% cotton clothing is a common recommendation; Eberjey's Organic Pima Cotton PJ sets are 100% organic Pima cotton in a relaxed fit.
What fabric is best for eczema-prone skin?
Loose-fitting 100% cotton is a common recommendation, and wool is best kept away from the skin. Soft, breathable natural materials are a good choice, while wool, latex and synthetic fabrics are common triggers. Ask your dermatologist what is right for you.
What does OEKO-TEX® Standard 100 mean?
It is a label for textiles tested for harmful substances; every thread, button and accessory of a certified product is tested against a list of over 1,000 harmful substances. It does not tell you how a fabric will feel on your skin.
Is TENCEL™ Modal good for sensitive skin?
The eczema clothing guidance we reviewed doesn't mention modal. Eberjey's Gisele TENCEL™ Modal Long PJ Set is verified by OEKO-TEX® Standard 100 and contains 5% elastane, so if synthetic fibers bother you, a 100% cotton or silk set may suit you better.
Is silk good for sensitive skin?
Silk can be used to cover clothing seams that irritate the skin. Eberjey's Inez Washable Silk Long PJ Set is 100% mulberry silk and verified by OEKO-TEX® Standard 100.
Should I wash new pajamas before wearing them?
Yes. Wash new clothes before wearing them, and use a fragrance-free, dye-free laundry detergent.
