Parent Diaries

What is Contact Dermatitis? Contact dermatitis is a type of skin inflammation that occurs when the skin comes into direct contact with an irritant or allergen. Have you ever used a new type of skin care product or detergent or worn some clothes only to have your skin become discolored and irritated? If so, you may have experienced contact dermatitis. This condition occurs when chemicals you come into contact with cause a reaction. The condition is characterized by red, itchy, and sometimes swollen skin, often accompanied by blisters or dry, scaly patches. There are two main types of contact dermatitis: Irritant Contact Dermatitis (ICD): It is the most common type of contact dermatitis caused by direct damage to the skin from irritants such as chemicals, dyes, soaps, and detergents. Allergic Contact Dermatitis (ACD): This causes your body to release inflammatory chemicals that can make your skin feel itchy and irritated triggered by an allergic reaction to substances like certain metals, fragrances, and plants. Fig. how contact dermatitis can look like.   Effects of Contact Dermatitis on Children in India Contact dermatitis is particularly concerning in children due to their sensitive skin and developing immune systems. There is now growing evidence of contact sensitization of the pediatric population, and it begins right from early childhood, including 1-week-old neonates. The consequences of undiagnosed and untreated ACD in children and in their family can be severe. Among children with suspected contact dermatitis referred for patch testing, positive patch test rates have ranged from 14% to 70%. Of these, about 56-93% have been thought of current relevance.  Moreover, atopic eczema may be an important risk factor for the development of ACD in children rather than in adults. In the study by the NACDG, of those with a reactive patch test, children (34.0%) were more likely than adults (11.2%) to have a final diagnosis that included atopic eczema. Several factors contribute to the prevalence and severity of this condition among children: Environmental Factors: India’s diverse climate, ranging from hot and humid to dry and cold, can exacerbate skin issues. Pollutants and allergens in urban areas further aggravate the situation. Hygiene Practices: Inadequate sanitation, child labor in different industries and exposure to harsh soaps and detergents can lead to irritant contact dermatitis. Children in rural areas may be more susceptible due to limited access to gentle skincare products. Cultural Practices: The use of traditional clothing and accessories, which may contain allergens such as nickel or certain dyes, can trigger allergic reactions. Diet and Lifestyle: Nutritional deficiencies and lifestyle factors can weaken the skin’s barrier, making it more vulnerable to irritants and allergens.   The Impact on Children’s Health and Well-being Contact dermatitis can significantly affect a child’s quality of life. The persistent itching and discomfort can lead to: Sleep Disturbances: Constant itching and discomfort can disrupt a child’s sleep, impacting their overall health and cognitive development. Psychological Effects: Visible skin conditions can affect a child’s self-esteem and social interactions, leading to anxiety and depression. Secondary Infections: Scratching can break the skin, leading to secondary bacterial infections which can be serious if not treated promptly.   Protect your child's skin with these simple tips to prevent contact dermatitis: Choose Gentle Fabrics Opt for soft, natural fabrics like cotton and Ayurvastra. Avoid synthetic materials that can irritate the skin. Use Mild Soaps & Detergents Select hypoallergenic, fragrance-free products. Rinse clothes thoroughly to remove detergent residues. Keep Skin Moisturized Apply gentle, fragrance-free moisturizers daily. Look for products with natural ingredients like aloe vera. Avoid Known Allergens Be aware of common triggers like nickel, certain plants, and dyes. Check labels for potential allergens. Maintain Good Hygiene Regular baths with mild, lukewarm water. Pat dry and avoid vigorous rubbing of the skin. Stay Hydrated Ensure your child drinks plenty of water. Hydrated skin is less prone to irritation. Dress Appropriately Use Ayurvastra clothing for its healing properties. Dress your child in weather-appropriate layers. Create a Safe Play Environment Minimize exposure to harsh chemicals and irritants. Keep outdoor play areas free of known allergens. Consult a Dermatologist Seek professional advice for persistent skin issues. Regular check-ups can help manage and prevent flare-ups.   Ayurvastra: A Natural Remedy for Contact Dermatitis Ayurvastra which loosely translates to "Ayurvedic cloth," is a traditional textile practice that combines Ayurvedic principles with the process of fabric making. These garments are infused with medicinal herbs known for their healing properties. Here’s how Ayurvastra can benefit children suffering from contact dermatitis or prevent the chances of the same: Natural and Non-Toxic: Ayurvastra is made using natural fibres like cotton, bamboo, wool, hemp, silk - dyed with herbal extracts, ensuring that no synthetic chemicals come into contact with the skin. This is particularly beneficial for children as their sensitive skin is prone to reactions from synthetic fabrics and dyes. Healing Properties: Herbs used in Ayurvastra, such as neem, indigo, turmeric, and sandalwood, have anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and soothing properties. These can help reduce inflammation, prevent infections, and promote overall wellbeing and healing of the skin. Enhanced Comfort: The breathable and soft nature of Ayurvastra garments made from natural fabrics can reduce skin irritation and provide comfort, essential for children who are already experiencing discomfort from dermatitis. Sustainable and Eco-Friendly: Ayurvastra supports sustainable practices, which are beneficial for the environment and help in reducing exposure to pollutants and allergens in total for generic prevention.   Implementing Ayurvastra for Dermatitis Relief For parents considering Ayurvastra for their children suffering from skin related issues or extra sensitive skin, here are some practical tips: Clothing Choices: Incorporate Ayurvastra into daily wear, especially for items that are in direct contact with the skin, such as underwear, casual wear, sleepwear, towels and bed linens. Consistency: Regular use of Ayurvastra provides continuous exposure to the healing properties of the herbs, aiding in long-term skin health and wellness. Complementary Care: Combine the use of Ayurvastra with other skin care routines recommended by healthcare professionals, such as using gentle, hypoallergenic, non-toxic or fragrance-free cleansers and moisturizers.   Conclusion Contact dermatitis is a common yet challenging condition, particularly for children due to various environmental and lifestyle factors. Embracing traditional practices like Ayurvastra offers a natural, non-toxic approach to managing and alleviating the symptoms of dermatitis by simply implicating in everyday life. By integrating the wisdom of Ayurveda through Ayurvastra with other modern care practices, we can provide children with a holistic and sustainable solution for healthier skin and a better quality of life.

As the festival season is in full form, the search for the perfect outfit for kids which are not only stylish, top trend notch, but also cares for babies’ sensitive skin and comfort.With Miho’s Artisan Centre, you can make a statement with your fashion choices and commitment to sustainability! Miho’s Artisan Centre has Festival Fashion and Indian Ethnic Wear for kids made with natural fabrics and dyes, courtesy of sustainable clothing manufacturers. Rock sustainable local artisanal style this season without compromising on the festive flair. The Rise of Sustainable Clothing Manufacturers: Sustainable fashion is a movement towards a greener, eco-conscious and positive future. Many clothing manufacturers are now embracing sustainable practices, focusing on the usage of eco-friendly materials and ethical production methods. Ayurvedic Cloth Manufacturers: A Harmony of Tradition and Eco-Friendliness: Discover the world of Ayurvedic cloth manufacturers, where tradition meets sustainability. Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of holistic wellness, extends its principles to textiles too. Fabrics infused with Ayurvedic herbs and natural dyes not only contribute to a healthier, more rooted lifestyle but also create one of a kind, soulful garments. Embrace the power of Ayurveda as you adorn yourself in fabrics designed to be wellness promoting for you and gentle on the planet. Why Natural Fabrics? The onset of Indian festival season is all about celebrating life, and what better way to do than aligning yourself with the rhythm of nature? Natural fabrics like organic cotton, silk, wool, linen, and hemp not only feel luxurious against the skin but also boast breathability, making them perfect for all fun filled hosting and activities. Opting for natural fabrics is a conscious choice that encourages sustainability and minimizes the environmental impact of your wardrobe or consumerism. Top Picks for Festival Season: Traditional Textile Arts: India has a rich cultural heritage that manifests itself through its exquisite traditional textiles and crafts. From vibrant hand block prints to intricate embroidery and weaving techniques, the diversity and artistry of Indian traditional textiles are unmatched. These traditional crafts not only showcase the country's heritage but also contribute to sustainable practices and provide livelihoods for skilled artisans. These styles are more than just a look to elevate the style sense to elite, one of a kind, traditionally ethnic style, second to none but they also have a real purpose to them. Ayurvedic Infusions: Imagine a wardrobe with garments infused with Ayurvedic herbs through dyes – does it feels like anything less than an experience? The therapeutic touch of such clothing – also known as Ayurvastra - is designed to promote wellness, through the therapeutic herbal property as well as aroma and colour therapy intervened with it making you feel better on the inside while making a style statement. Let your fashion choices reflect your commitment to your culture, a better world and mindful lifestyle this festive season – take a pledge to vote for a world you hope to see in future through your purchase choices. By oping for sustainable or Ayurvedic clothing brands and manufacturers, you showcase your timeless classic heritage style and also contribute to a brighter, greener future. Step into the celebrations with grace and pride, knowing that your ensemble not only looks good but does good too.

The ecological awareness shift in the fashion industry has given rise to a demand for sustainable clothing options that cater to different all the categories, be it kids' wear, women's wear, or men's wear. If you're looking to make eco-friendly choices for your wardrobe, understanding sustainable fabrics, processes, techniques, local textile crafts, traditions, the suppliers and manufacturers in India can be a great starting point. The Rise of Sustainable Fashion Sustainability in fashion is about making clothing choices that consider the entire lifecycle of a garment, from its production to disposal and afterlife. It prioritizes natural fibres, recycled raw material, ethical manufacturing practices, minimizes waste, biodegradability of the product, and reduces the environmental footprint.   Sustainable Fabrics: A Deeper Insight Sustainable fabrics are those that have been sourced, produced, and manufactured in ways leading to minimal to zero negative impacts (ideal will be positive impact) on the environment and people involved in the process. Here are some of the top sustainable fabrics gaining popularity in clothing and lifestyle industry, along with their unique benefits: 1. Organic Cotton Organic cotton is grown without the use of synthetic pesticides or hazardous chemical fertilizers, making it an environmentally friendly alternative to conventional cotton. It is commonly used everywhere today, including kids' wear, women's wear, and men's wear. Organic cotton is soft, breathable, and ideal for various clothing styles. 2. Recycled Cotton Recycled cotton fabric is made out of cotton that otherwise would have ended up in a landfill. Also known as upcycled cotton, it’s either made from cotton products that have already been thrown out, such as clothes and bedding or from pre consumer cotton waste like pattern cutting table. In addition to reducing the amount of cotton that ends up in landfills, recycled cotton can also reduce reliance on cotton production, making it a great option provided it’s widely adopted by manufacturers and consumers. 3. Hemp Hemp and Linen are versatile and sustainable fabrics that require minimal water and pesticides to grow. It is used for a wide range of clothing, from casual wear to high-end fashion and other lifestyle products. These fabrics are known for their durability and breathability. 4. Tencel (Lyocell) Tencel, also known as Lyocell, is made from sustainably sourced wood pulp, primarily from eucalyptus trees. The production process is eco-friendly and closed-loop, meaning that the solvents used to decompose the pulp to fibres are recycled. Tencel is soft, moisture-wicking, and great sustainable alternative used for activewear and undergarments. 5. Recycled Polyester Recycled polyester is majorly made from post-consumer plastic bottles and fishing nets, diverting non-compostable plastic waste from landfills and oceans. It's commonly used in sportswear, shoes, outerwear, and accessories. This fabric helps reduce the consumption of virgin resources to meet up consumer demands. 6. Bamboo Bamboo fabric is derived from bamboo pulp, which is a highly renewable resource as it grows really fast and require no chemical pesticides or fertilizers. It's extremely soft, breathable, and naturally antibacterial. Bamboo fabric is suitable for everyday wear and can be used in various clothing categories.     Other fibers like Ethical wool, Ahimsa or Eri Silk, Lotus, Pineapple, Banana, Milk, Rose and may more fabric alternatives, are also gaining popularity as people – both manufacturers and consumers are looking for new and creative replacements to give newness and yet preserve the cause. India is a hub for sustainable clothing manufacturing and sourcing. With old yet rich culture and textile crafts there is a lot to explore and employ in the world of sustainable life choices. When shopping for sustainable clothing, it's essential to research brands and suppliers that align with your values. One can look for certifications such as GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) or Fair Trade and values to ensure the authenticity of sustainable claims. By choosing eco-friendly fabrics and supporting ethical manufacturers, you contribute to a more sustainable and responsible fashion industry and future, regardless of your clothing category needs.     In conclusion, sustainability in fashion is not limited to one category. And rather than a destination, it is a journey. Whether you're shopping for kids' wear, women's wear, or men's wear, there are numerous sustainable fabrics and manufacturers in India that will cater to your needs. By making conscious choices, you can build a wardrobe that not only looks good but also feels good for the planet and the people who make your clothes.

Consumers are becoming more conscious of their choices growing a demand for clothing made from old and new sustainable materials. Bamboo fabric has emerged as a popular choice due to its eco-friendly qualities, comfort, and versatility. In this blog, we'll explore five vital things to consider while looking for bamboo clothing manufacturers in India: 1. Quality of Bamboo Fabric and Expertise Ensure that the manufacturer sources high-quality, eco-friendly, closed loop processed bamboo fabric. Bamboo clothing is known for its softness, breathability, anti UV and moisture-wicking properties. Therefore, the fabric's quality is essential for creating comfortable and durable clothing items. Inquire about their experience in designing, crafting, and producing bamboo clothing assessing their expertise with dealing with the fabric. An experienced manufacturer can provide valuable insights and suggestions to improve your designs and product offerings utilising their scope, capacities and inherited fabric qualities. 2. Sustainability One of the primary reasons for the trending bamboo fabric is its sustainable nature. When looking for bamboo fabric and clothing manufacturer, prioritize those who adhere to sustainable design and manufacturing practices. Inquire about their commitments to minimizing water usage, chemical usage, labour laws and carbon footprint. 3. Production Capacity and Lead Times The production capacity and lead times stated by the bamboo clothing manufacturers are extremely important. If you're planning to launch a clothing line or add new range, this information helps you maintain a consistent supply. Inquire about their production capabilities both in terms of capacities and techniques to understand whether they can accommodate your desired order quantities and qualities. Additionally, discuss lead times to ensure that the manufacturer can meet your deadlines ensuring long sustaining business terms. 4. Customization and Design Support Partnering with a manufacturer that can offer customization and design support can give your new venture an enormous boost and help build on USP and Brand Language crucial today to stay indispensable in the market. Inquire about the bamboo clothing manufacturer's ability to facilitate the designing and bring your vision to life. A manufacturer with a strong design team will act as an sustainable design firm providing valuable innovative input to enhance your product offerings. 5. Ethical and Fair Labor Practices Ethical manufacturing practices, safe work environment, clean and hygienic surroundings for employees, fair wages, equal rights are non-negotiable when selecting a bamboo clothing manufacturer for your new start. Transparent communication about their design process, team members, supply chain and production processes is a positive sign of their commitment to ethical practices.By carefully evaluating all the listed above aspects, you can forge a partnership that not only produces high-quality bamboo clothing in adherence to your vision. At Miho, we are here to help you navigate through the process, evolve with you, provide options, suggestions and solutions with our multi-disciplinary expertise. Our deep rooted networks with socially and ecologically responsible mindset will help you achieve the dream you hoped for your brand - functionally, technically, ethically and morally.

In world today, sustainable choices are gaining popularity across all industries. Fashion which remains the forefront of visible, bamboo clothing is emerging as one such remarkable choice, gaining attention as a more environmentally friendly alternative to traditional fabrics. Increased demand of bamboo clothing manufacturers in India and bamboo fabric manufacturers worldwide, the green sustainability revolution is taking the fashion and lifestyle industry by storm specially for categories like baby, kids, skin sensitive people and elderly. Let’s look the various qualities which make Bamboo fabric number one choice for sustainable clothes manufactures, bamboo clothing suppliers and international buyers. 1. Bamboo's Rapid Growth:Bamboo is known for its extensively rapid growth and minimal natural resource requirements. Traditional textiles often rely on resource-intensive crops like cotton and jute whereas some species of bamboo can grow up to three feet in a single day, making it a highly renewable resource. This quick regrowth ensures that bamboo can be harvested more frequently – providing farmers a sustaining source of income and still meeting up with increasing consumer demand without causing extensive damage to the environment. 2. Minimal Water Usage: Bamboo requires significantly less water to thrive and grow in comparison to traditional textiles like cotton and jute. To calculate the water consumption by protein-based fabrics is very difficult but one can assume how high it can be. Bamboo’s ability to grow without the need for traditional irrigation or pesticides reduces the strain on local water resources and minimizes water and soil pollution. 3. Natural Pest Resistance: Bamboo plant has a natural resistance to pests, eliminating the need for chemical pesticides or sprays. This property keeps the soil healthy, naturally fertile and prevents ecological pollution. This natural resilience aligns perfectly with the principles of sustainable and eco-friendly production of the new age fibre. 4. No Chemical Fertilizers: This plant thrives in various environmental conditions without the need for huge amount of water and chemical fertilizers. Unlike other crops that often deplete the soil of essential nutrients and add chemicals to it for its growth, bamboo actually enriches the soil it grows in and hence is supported by the farmer community too. This enriching effect further reduces the need for chemical additives, promoting healthier agricultural practices. Bamboo can add up to 6-8 inches of humus to the soil every year while a single Bamboo plant can bind up to 6 CUM of soil. Besides, most Bamboo species form an evergreen canopy, shedding leaves all year round and this too contributes to improving soil health. 5. Reduced Carbon Footprint: Bamboo has the incredible ability to absorb more carbon dioxide from the atmosphere compared to many other plants and especially the ones contributing to the fashion industry. As bamboo clothing gains popularity, its production contributes to carbon sequestration, helping to reduce the overall carbon footprint of the fashion industry. Integrated with technological advancement in Knitting and 3D printing the carbon footprint can be reduced even more in long run. R&D are in process inviting young minds and innovators to grace the global stage. 6. Biodegradability and Closed-Loop Production: One of the most compelling reasons why bamboo cloth is best for the environment is its biodegradability i.e., its ability to completely decompose in the soil without leaving harmful residues. Additionally, bamboo fibre/fabric production can be part of a closed-loop system, where almost every part of the plant is utilized into one or more products, leaving minimal waste. The chemicals used in the process are also reused, minimalizing the disposal and the harm it causes. 7. Versatility: Bamboo fabrics are versatile because of their inherited properties like Anti – odour, Anti-Microbial, Soft Hand feel, can be knitted or woven, an be made in multiple GSMs, has great drapability, is breathable, has great absorbability, and insulation, making it perfect for multiple seasons, styles, and clothing categories. Conclusion: The surge in bamboo clothing manufacturers in India and bamboo fabric manufacturers globally signifies an upcoming shift towards increasingly environmentally conscious fashion consumers. The unique characteristics of bamboo which includes rapid growth, minimal water usage, natural pest resistance, saves pollution and biodegradability, make it the ideal choice for eco-friendly clothing. By choosing bamboo cloth, you play an active role in preserving the planet for future generations.