Moisturizing fabric and application thereof

Abstract

The present invention relates to a fabric and use of the fabric for treating dermatitis, the fabric comprising: a first yarn comprising polylactic acid (PLA) fibers; a second yarn comprising elastic fibers or regenerated cellulose fibers; and a third yarn comprising regenerated cellulose fibers.

Description

[0001] This application claims priority to Australian Provisional Patent Application No. 2022902911, filed on 6 October 2022, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by cross-reference. Technical Field

[0002] The present disclosure is mainly concerned with moisturizing fabrics (textiles) and their use in the treatment of skin diseases. Background Art

[0003] Any discussion of the prior art throughout the patent specification should not be taken as an admission that such prior art is well known or forms part of the common general knowledge in the art.

[0004] There is an increasing need for moisturizing fabrics in the medical clothing market. Clothes based on such fabrics can effectively prevent skin dryness, improve the human sweating mechanism, and relieve the symptoms of skin diseases (such as eczema).

[0005] Eczema (also known as atopic dermatitis) is a chronic inflammatory skin disease. It is a common disease and requires long-term treatment. Patients with eczema may suffer from skin barrier dysfunction, itch sensation abnormalities, chronic inflammation, and dysbiosis. The main strategies for treating eczema include (i) topical corticosteroids and tacrolimus ointments for suppressing inflammation; (ii) topical emollients for treating skin physiological abnormalities; and (iii) identifying and avoiding exacerbating factors in daily life.

[0006] In the long-term control of eczema, measures to address exacerbating factors in daily life are particularly important. Exacerbating factors include temperature, sweat, clothing fabric, stress, food, alcohol, and poor physical condition. Among these factors, temperature, sweating, and clothing fabric can be improved by changing the clothing fabric. In addition, since the fabric is in long-term contact with human skin, the fabric is an important part of the skin environment. Thus, appropriate fabric selection is an important therapy for eczema patients.

[0007] Other existing therapies for eczema include directly applying water to the skin through an applicator (such as a bandage). However, due to the disruption of the stratum corneum structure, direct contact between the skin and water will cause wrinkling of the outer layer of the skin. In addition, the applied water may also disrupt the pH value of the acidic protective film of the skin (the pH value of which is about 4.5 to 6.5). The maintenance of the acidic protective film is important for skin health because it has the ability to resist bacteria and reduce the risk of skin infection.

[0008] The present inventor has developed fabrics suitable for use in moisture-retaining clothing applications, which can quickly absorb sweat and effectively transport it to the outer surface of the fabric, where the sweat is retained. Such fabrics can provide a moisturizing effect to the skin without giving the wearer a feeling of wetness or dampness. Summary of the Invention

[0009] In a first aspect, the present disclosure provides a fabric comprising:

[0010] a first yarn comprising polylactic acid (PLA) fibers;

[0011] a second yarn comprising elastic fibers or regenerated cellulose fibers; and

[0012] a third yarn comprising regenerated cellulose fibers.

[0013] The following options can be used alone or in any combination with the first aspect of the present disclosure.

[0014] In one embodiment, the fabric as described in the first aspect of the present disclosure comprises:

[0015] a first yarn comprising polylactic acid (PLA) fibers;

[0016] a second yarn comprising elastic fibers; and

[0017] a third yarn comprising regenerated cellulose fibers.

[0018] In one embodiment, the fabric as described in the first aspect of the present disclosure comprises:

[0019] a first yarn comprising polylactic acid (PLA) fibers;

[0020] a second yarn comprising regenerated cellulose fibers; and

[0021] a third yarn comprising regenerated cellulose fibers.

[0022] In one embodiment, the fabric as described in the first aspect of the present disclosure consists of:

[0023] a first yarn consisting of polylactic acid (PLA) fibers;

[0024] a second yarn consisting of elastic olefin fibers; and

[0025] a third yarn consisting of regenerated cellulose fibers.

[0026] In one embodiment, the fabric as described in the first aspect of the present disclosure comprises:

[0027] a first yarn consisting of polylactic acid (PLA) fibers;

[0028] A second yarn composed of elastic fibers; and

[0029] A third yarn composed of regenerated cellulose fibers.

[0030] In one embodiment, the fabric as described in the first aspect of the present disclosure includes:

[0031] A first yarn composed of polylactic acid (PLA) fibers;

[0032] A second yarn composed of elastic olefin fibers; and

[0033] A third yarn containing regenerated cellulose fibers.

[0034] The first yarn may be a filament yarn.

[0035] The PLA fibers may have an X-shaped cross-section.

[0036] The first yarn may be from about 40 denier to about 150 denier, or from about 40 denier to about 85 denier, or from about 50 denier to about 75 denier, or about 50 denier, or about 75 denier. The fineness of the monofilament of the first yarn (fiber fineness) may be from about 1 denier to about 2 denier, or from about 1 denier to about 1.5 denier, or about 1.2 denier. The diameter of the first yarn may be from about 70 μm to about 100 μm or about 91 μm. The diameter of the first yarn may be from about 30 μm to about 60 μm or about 46 μm.

[0037] The stitch (stitch) length / 100 turns of the first yarn may be from about 20 cm to about 40 cm or from about 25 cm to about 35 cm.

[0038] The first yarn may account for about 15% to about 60% of the fabric weight, or about 30% to about 60% of the fabric weight, or about 35% to about 55% of the fabric weight. The first yarn may account for about 45% of the fabric weight. The first yarn may account for about 47% of the fabric weight.

[0039] The first yarn may be composed of PLA fibers.

[0040] When in contact with the wearer's skin during use, the first yarn may keep sweat away from the wearer.

[0041] The second yarn may be a filament yarn.

[0042] The second yarn may be from about 25 denier to about 65 denier, or from about 33 denier to about 55 denier, or about 33 denier, or about 42 denier, or about 55 denier. The diameter of the second yarn may be from about 60 μm to about 90 μm or about 73 μm. The diameter of the second yarn may be from about 20 μm to about 50 μm or about 36 μm.

[0043] The stitch length of the second yarn per 100 loops can be about 5 cm to about 20 cm, or about 10 cm to about 15 cm.

[0044] The second yarn can account for about 5% to about 20% of the fabric weight, or about 8% to about 15% of the fabric weight. The second yarn can account for about 12% of the fabric weight. The second yarn can account for about 9% of the fabric weight.

[0045] The elastic fiber can be selected from the group consisting of: elastic olefins, polyurethane elastic fibers, diene elastic fibers, polyether ester elastic fibers, and polyolefin elastomer fibers. The elastic fiber can be a polyurethane elastic fiber. The second yarn can contain or consist of polyurethane elastic fibers.

[0046] In some embodiments, especially when the fabric is not required to be elastic, the second yarn can have the same composition as the third yarn. The second yarn can be a staple fiber yarn having the same composition as the third yarn. That is, the second yarn can contain regenerated cellulose fibers as defined for the third yarn.

[0047] The moisture regain of the third yarn can be about 10% to about 20% or about 13%.

[0048] The third yarn can be a staple fiber yarn.

[0049] The third yarn can also contain polyester or cotton.

[0050] The regenerated cellulose fiber can be modal, tencel cotton, rayon, cupro, or a combination thereof.

[0051] The regenerated cellulose fiber can be modal.

[0052] The third yarn can consist of modal.

[0053] The third yarn can account for about 30% to about 80% of the fabric weight, about 30% to about 60% of the fabric weight, or about 33% to about 53% of the fabric weight. The third yarn can account for about 43% of the fabric weight. The third yarn can account for about 44% of the fabric weight.

[0054] The stitch length of the third yarn per 100 loops can be about 20 cm to about 40 cm or about 26 cm to about 36 cm.

[0055] The warp and weft thread count of the third yarn may be from about 30 tex to about 5 tex, from about 10 tex to about 7 tex, or from about 5 tex to about 7 tex, or be about 9.7 tex, about 8.3 tex or about 7.3 tex. The diameter of the third yarn may be from about 60 μm to about 90 μm or be about 79 μm. The diameter of the third yarn may be from about 20 μm to about 50 μm or be about 39 μm.

[0056] The third yarn can receive the sweat removed from the wearer's skin and retain the sweat so that it does not come into contact with the wearer's skin, thereby removing the sweat from the skin.

[0057] The sweat captured in the third yarn can generate water vapor, which provides a moisturizing effect for the wearer's skin without giving the wearer a feeling of dampness.

[0058] The second yarn can be interwoven between the first yarn and the third yarn.

[0059] The first yarn, the second yarn and the third yarn can be presented as layers.

[0060] The fabric can be composed of three layers.

[0061] The first yarn can form the bottom layer, the second yarn can form the middle layer, and the third yarn can form the top layer.

[0062] In one embodiment, the fabric may comprise or consist of:

[0063] A first yarn containing polylactic acid (PLA) fibers, the first yarn forming the bottom layer of the fabric adapted to contact the wearer's skin;

[0064] A second yarn containing elastic fibers or regenerated cellulose fibers, the second yarn forming the middle layer of the fabric; and

[0065] A third yarn containing regenerated cellulose fibers, the third yarn forming the top outer layer of the fabric furthest from the wearer's skin.

[0066] In one embodiment, the fabric may comprise or consist of:

[0067] A first yarn containing polylactic acid (PLA) fibers, the first yarn forming the bottom layer of the fabric adapted to contact the wearer's skin;

[0068] A second yarn containing elastic fibers, the second yarn forming the middle layer of the fabric; and

[0069] A third yarn containing regenerated cellulose fibers, the third yarn forming the top outer layer of the fabric furthest from the wearer's skin.

[0070] In one embodiment, the fabric may comprise or consist of:

[0071] A first yarn comprising polylactic acid (PLA) fibers, the first yarn forming a bottom layer of the fabric adapted to contact the skin of the wearer;

[0072] A second yarn comprising regenerated cellulose fibers, the second yarn forming an intermediate layer of the fabric; and

[0073] A third yarn comprising regenerated cellulose fibers, the third yarn forming a top outer layer of the fabric furthest from the skin of the wearer.

[0074] The fabric can be a knitted fabric.

[0075] The knitted fabric can be a plain weave fabric, which can be a single-sided knitted fabric or a double-sided knitted fabric.

[0076] The fabric can be a moisturizing fabric.

[0077] In a second aspect, the present disclosure provides a garment made of or comprising the fabric as described in the first aspect of the present disclosure.

[0078] The following options can be used alone or in any combination in conjunction with the second aspect of the present disclosure.

[0079] In one embodiment, the garment as described in the second aspect of the present disclosure is made of or comprises a fabric that comprises or consists of:

[0080] A first yarn comprising polylactic acid (PLA) fibers, the first yarn forming a bottom layer of the fabric adapted to contact the skin of the wearer;

[0081] A second yarn comprising elastic fibers, the second yarn forming an intermediate layer of the fabric; and

[0082] A third yarn comprising regenerated cellulose fibers, the third yarn forming a top outer layer of the fabric furthest from the skin of the wearer.

[0083] The garment can be a shirt, sports vest, sweatshirt, pajamas, bodysuit, fleece, shorts, pants, hood, running cap, newsboy cap, helmet liner, face mask, headband or socks.

[0084] In a third aspect, the present disclosure provides a method for treating dermatitis in a subject in need thereof, the method comprising applying the fabric as described in the first aspect or the garment as described in the second aspect to an area of the subject's body affected by dermatitis. The dermatitis can be atopic dermatitis (i.e., eczema).

[0085] In a fourth aspect, the present disclosure provides a fabric as described in the first aspect or a garment as described in the second aspect for treating dermatitis in a subject in need thereof.

[0086] In a fifth aspect, the present disclosure provides the use of a fabric as described in the first aspect in the manufacture of a garment for treating dermatitis in a subject in need thereof. The dermatitis may be atopic dermatitis (i.e., eczema).

[0087] Definitions

[0088] Throughout the patent specification, unless the context requires otherwise, the word "comprising" or variations such as "comprises" or "comprising" will be understood to imply the inclusion of the stated element, integer or step, or group consisting of elements, integers or steps, but not the exclusion of any other element, integer or step or other group consisting of elements, integers or steps. Thus, in the context of this patent specification, the term "comprising" means "comprising primarily but not necessarily solely".

[0089] In the context of this patent specification, the terms "a" and "an" are used herein to refer to one or more than one (i.e., at least one) of the grammatical objects of the article. For example, "an element" refers to one element or more than one element.

[0090] The term "about" is understood to refer to a range of numbers that would be considered equivalent to the stated value by a person skilled in the art in the context of achieving the same function or result.

[0091] In the context of this patent specification, the term "yarn" is understood to refer to interlocked fibers of continuous length that can be made into textile materials.

[0092] In the context of this patent specification, the term "filament yarn" is understood to refer to a yarn made of one or more continuous fibers in the form of filaments, where each filament extends along the entire length of the yarn.

[0093] In the context of this patent specification, the term "staple yarn" is understood to refer to fibers of relatively short length that are twisted or spun together to form a continuous strand.

[0094] In the context of this patent specification, a yarn may refer to a single ply yarn, a two-ply yarn or a yarn of more than two plies.

[0095] In the context of this patent specification, the term "denier" refers to a unit of measure of the linear mass density of a fiber, which is defined as the mass (in grams) of 9000 meters of the fiber.

[0096] In the context of this patent specification, "S" refers to the English yarn count, which provides the number of hanks of 840 yards in length contained in one pound by mass. For example, 60S means that 60 hanks of 840 yards in length weigh one pound. The corresponding SI unit is "tex", where, for cellulose yarns, 1 tex = 583.1 / S, and for synthetic yarns, 1 tex = 590.5 / S.

[0097] In the context of this patent specification, the terms "treat" and "treatment" refer to any and all uses of treating a specified disease or disorder or its symptoms, or otherwise impeding, delaying, or reversing the progression of a specified disease or disorder or its other undesired symptoms. Thus, the terms "treat" and "treatment" should be considered in their broadest sense. For example, treatment does not necessarily mean that the subject being treated is treated until complete recovery.

[0098] In the context of this patent specification, the terms "eczema" and "atopic dermatitis" are used interchangeably and refer to an inflammation of the skin, which causes the skin to become dry, itchy, swollen, red, and / or cracked. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0099] Embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described by way of example only with reference to the drawings.

[0100] Figure 1 . Schematic diagram of the fabric structure.

[0101] Figure 2. (a) The surface of the fabric at a magnification of 100 times, (b) The surface of the fabric at a magnification of 100 times.

[0102] Figure 3. (a) The back of the fabric at a magnification of 100 times, (b) The back of the fabric at a magnification of 100 times.

[0103] Figure 4 . Side view of the magnified fabric.

[0104] Figure 5 . Schematic diagram of the clothing-human body-environment.

[0105] Figure 6. Shirts made of the fabric according to the first aspect of the present disclosure, (a) Winter shirt, (b) Summer shirt.

[0106] Figure 7 . Schematic diagram of the research protocol.

[0107] Figure 8. Research results, (a) EASI measurements before and after wearing the T-shirt in summer and winter, (b) POEM measurements before and after wearing the T-shirt in summer and winter, (c) Itch VAS measurements before and after wearing the T-shirt in summer and winter, (d) skin pH measurements before and after wearing the T-shirt in summer and winter, (e) SCWC measurements before and after wearing the T-shirt in summer and winter, (f) TSQM-9 scores before and after wearing the T-shirt in summer and winter. Detailed implementation

[0108] In one aspect, the present disclosure provides a fabric comprising or consisting of:

[0109] A first yarn containing polylactic acid (PLA) fibers;

[0110] A second yarn containing elastic fibers or regenerated cellulose fibers; and

[0111] A third yarn containing regenerated cellulose fibers.

[0112] The first yarn may contain PLA fibers. In some embodiments, the first yarn may consist of PLA fibers. PLA is a hydrophobic fiber with a low moisture regain, so it helps to remove sweat moisture from the skin and enhance evaporation. By keeping the skin surface dry, the drying of sweat can effectively avoid the deterioration of eczema. PLA also has a pH value of 5.5, which is close to the natural pH value of the skin and is non-allergenic. Therefore, in some embodiments, the fabric as described in the first aspect of the present disclosure does not contain any additives for pH adjustment.

[0113] In some embodiments, the first yarn may be from about 40 denier to about 150 denier, from about 40 denier to about 85 denier, or from about 40 denier to about 80 denier, or from about 45 denier to about 75 denier, or from about 50 denier to about 75 denier, or about 50 denier, or about 75 denier. The filament fineness of the first yarn may be from about 1 denier to about 2 denier, or from about 1 denier to about 1.5 denier, or about 1.2 denier. The diameter of the first yarn may be from about 30 μm to about 100 μm, or about 30 - 40 μm, about 30 - 50 μm, about 30 - 60 μm, about 30 - 70 μm, about 30 - 80 μm, about 30 - 90 μm, about 40 - 50 μm, about 40 - 60 μm, about 40 - 70 μm, about 40 - 80 μm, about 40 - 90 μm, about 40 - 100 μm, about 50 - 60 μm, about 50 - 70 μm, about 50 - 80 μm, about 50 - 90 μm, about 50 - 100 μm, about 60 - 70 μm, about 60 - 80 μm, about 60 - 90 μm, about 60 - 100 μm, about 70 - 80 μm, about 70 - 90 μm, about 80 - 90 μm, about 80 - 100 μm, or from about 90 μm to about 100 μm. The diameter of the first yarn may be about 30 μm, about 40 μm, about 50 μm, about 60 μm, about 70 μm, about 80 μm, about 90 μm, or about 100 μm. The diameter of the first yarn may be about 91 μm or about 46 μm.

[0114] In some embodiments, the first yarn may account for about 15% to about 60% of the fabric weight, or about 30% to about 60% of the fabric weight, or about 35% to about 55% of the fabric weight. The first yarn may account for about 45% of the fabric weight. The first yarn may account for about 47% of the fabric weight.

[0115] The second yarn comprises or consists of an elastic fiber. Any suitable elastic fiber can be used, which is used to provide elastic properties to the fabric. Suitable elastic fibers include elastic olefins, polyurethane elastic fibers, diene elastic fibers, polyether ester elastic fibers, and polyolefin elastomer fibers. Elastic olefins are fibers containing partially crosslinked macromolecules made of 95% by weight of ethylene and at least one other olefin. When stretched to 1.5 times its original length, the elastic olefin quickly returns to its original length. Polyurethane elastic fibers are polyether - polyurea copolymer fibers, which are also known as spandex and have the trade name In some embodiments, the second yarn comprises an elastic olefin. In some embodiments, the second yarn consists of an elastic olefin. In some embodiments, the second yarn comprises a polyurethane elastic fiber. In some embodiments, the second yarn consists of a polyurethane elastic fiber.

[0116] In some embodiments, the second yarn may be from about 25 denier to about 65 denier, or from about 30 denier to about 60 denier, or from about 33 denier to about 55 denier, or be about 33 denier, or about 42 denier, or about 55 denier. The diameter of the second yarn may be from about 20 μm to about 90 μm, or about 20 - 30 μm, about 20 - 40 μm, about 20 - 50 μm, about 20 - 60 μm, about 20 - 70 μm, about 20 - 80 μm, about 30 - 40 μm, about 30 - 50 μm, about 30 - 60 μm, about 30 - 70 μm, about 30 - 80 μm, about 30 - 90 μm, about 40 - 50 μm, about 40 - 60 μm, about 40 - 70 μm, about 40 - 80 μm, about 40 - 90 μm, about 50 - 60 μm, about 50 - 70 μm, about 50 - 80 μm, about 50 - 90 μm, about 60 - 70 μm, about 60 - 80 μm, about 70 - 80 μm, about 70 - 90 μm, or from about 80 μm to about 90 μm. The diameter of the second yarn may be about 30 μm, or about 40 μm, about 50 μm, about 60 μm, about 70 μm, about 80 μm, or about 90 μm. The diameter of the second yarn may be about 73 μm. The diameter of the second yarn may be about 36 μm.

[0117] In some embodiments, the second yarn may account for about 5% to about 20% of the fabric weight, or about 8% to about 15% of the fabric weight. The second yarn may account for about 12% of the fabric weight. The second yarn may account for about 9% of the fabric weight.

[0118] In some embodiments, especially when the fabric is not required to be elastic, the second yarn may have the same composition as the third yarn. The second yarn may be a staple fiber yarn having the same composition as the third yarn. That is, the second yarn may include regenerated cellulose fibers as defined with respect to the third yarn. In some embodiments, when the second yarn contains regenerated cellulose fibers, the regenerated cellulose fibers are modal. With respect to the function of the fabric, the regenerated cellulose fibers connect the first yarn and the third yarn (the top layer and the bottom layer) and enable moisture to diffuse from the bottom layer to the top layer. The regenerated cellulose fibers also provide thickness and stiffness, thus contributing to the aesthetic appearance of the fabric.

[0119] The third yarn contains or consists of regenerated cellulose fibers. The regenerated cellulose fibers are made from cellulose extracted from wood pulp, cotton, bamboo, or any other cellulose source, which is chemically dissolved and then extruded. In some embodiments, the regenerated cellulose fibers are modal, tencel cotton, rayon, cupro, cotton, bamboo, or a combination thereof. In one embodiment, the regenerated cellulose fibers may be modal fibers. In one embodiment, the third yarn may consist of modal fibers.

[0120] The third yarn may account for about 30% to about 80% of the fabric weight, about 30% to about 60% of the fabric weight, or about 33% to about 53% of the fabric weight. The third yarn may account for about 43% of the fabric weight. The third yarn may account for about 44% of the fabric weight.

[0121] The warp and weft density of the third yarn may be about 20S to about 100S, about 60S to about 80S, or may be about 20S, 30S, 40S, 50S, 60S, 70S or 80S. Similarly, the warp and weft density of the third yarn may be about 5tex to about 30tex, about 10tex to about 7tex, or may be about 9.7tex, about 8.3tex or about 7.3tex. The diameter of the third yarn may be about 20μm to about 90μm, or about 20 - 30μm, about 20 - 40μm, about 20 - 50μm, about 20 - 60μm, about 20 - 70μm, about 20 - 80μm, about 30 - 40μm, about 30 - 50μm, about 30 - 60μm, about 30 - 70μm, about 30 - 80μm, about 30 - 90μm, about 40 - 50μm, about 40 - 60μm, about 40 - 70μm, about 40 - 80μm, about 40 - 90μm, about 50 - 60μm, about 50 - 70μm, about 50 - 80μm, about 50 - 90μm, about 60 - 70μm, about 60 - 80μm, about 70 - 80μm, about 70 - 90μm, or about 80μm to about 90μm. The diameter of the second yarn may be about 20μm, about 30μm, about 40μm, about 50μm, about 60μm, about 70μm, about 80μm or about 90μm. The diameter of the second yarn may be about 79μm. The diameter of the second yarn may be about 39μm.

[0122] The moisture regain of the third yarn may be about 10% to about 20%, or about 10% to about 15%, or about 11% to about 14%, or about 12% to about 14% or may be about 13%. Moisture regain is defined as the weight of water present in the material, which is expressed as a percentage of the dry weight. Therefore, the moisture regain (R) is calculated as follows:

[0123] R = W / D × 100

[0124] Wherein, W is the weight of water, and D is the dry weight.

[0125] The third yarn may also contain polyester or cotton.

[0126] The first yarn, the second yarn and the third yarn may exist in the fabric as multiple layers, for example Figure 1-4 as shown. In some embodiments, the first yarn may form the bottom layer, the second yarn may form the middle layer, and the third yarn may form the top layer. In some embodiments, the fabric may comprise three layers or consist of three layers.

[0127] The fabric as described in the first aspect of the present disclosure is specifically configured to optimally maintain the moisturizing environment of the skin. A specific dynamic system among the human body, clothing, and the environment is predicted to produce optimal results. Two types of osmosis occur in Figure 5 the dynamic human-clothing-environment system shown. When the area between the fabric and the skin has a lower humidity than the human skin, the first osmosis (B) occurs, resulting in water loss from the skin to the area between the fabric and the skin (trans-epidermal water loss, TEWL). TEWL refers to the loss of water vapor through the skin, rather than sweat secretion. This area between the fabric and the skin forms a microclimate. The second osmosis (A) occurs on the fabric, where a layer of crystalline water on the fiber surface acts like a membrane between the external environment and the microclimate. If the humidity of the microclimate is high, water vapor moves to the external environment. According to TEWL, continuous water supply will transfer to the microclimate. It is assumed that if system A can delay the water loss from the microclimate to the external environment, it can provide a moisturizing effect for the skin. The presence of external pressure from this environment helps to delay the water loss from the microclimate to the outside world. The change of the microclimate is dynamic and stable. This is consistent with the research results detailed in the following examples. It is known that applying an oil-based moisturizer to the skin can help maintain skin hydration (skin moisturization) by reducing TEWL. Instead of applying an oily moisturizer to the skin, the fabric has a skin care function by acting like a moisturizer. The fabric acts as a membrane during the osmosis process, thus generating an osmotic pressure from A to B as Figure 5 shown, which delays the process of water loss. This occurs when the crystalline water fills the interstitial space between the regenerated fibers of the third yarn after absorption, leaving minimal space for water loss. This layer of crystalline water on the surface of the fibers of the third yarn helps to retain water vapor within the skin by delaying its transmission from the wearer's body to the external environment, just like directly applying a layer of oil to the skin surface to reduce TEWL.

[0128] The hydrophilic property of the top layer utilizes the human sweating mechanism to provide continuous isolation by replenishing moisture through absorbing liquid and vapor sweat. In addition, the hydrophilic property of the top layer increases the surface area where sweat accumulates. Thus, if one part of the body sweats more, the top layer spreads the sweat over a larger area, thereby enhancing the body's natural sweating mechanism. Without wishing to be bound by any particular theory, the inventors believe that the body's sweating mechanism can be enhanced for two main reasons. First, to prevent the fabric in a small area from being saturated with sweat to an uncomfortable point. Second, since the sweat is continuously spread over a larger surface area, a larger area of the skin can obtain moisturizing benefits. In addition, since the evaporation of sweat occurs on the top layer rather than on the skin surface, salt residues that may trigger allergies are not deposited on the skin.

[0129] The layered nature of the fabric also allows sweat to evaporate from the fabric rather than from the skin surface, thereby reducing skin irritation when the fabric is worn for a long time. The advantage of evaporating sweat from the fabric is to prevent the accumulation of salt residues from the skin surface, which may cause allergic reactions. Bacteria on the skin surface may spread in the presence of excessive sweat, and some of them may produce pathogens or antigens. These substances can be absorbed into the skin and cause inflammation. Therefore, effective sweat management can prevent the exacerbation of skin inflammation caused by sweat residues.

[0130] The composition of the fabric as described in the first aspect of the present disclosure can also be selected to adjust the thermal conductivity according to seasonal changes. The thermal conductivity depends on the moisture content of the fabric. Materials with a higher moisture regain may have a higher moisture content. The top layer of the fabric may contain regenerated cellulose fibers, which have a higher moisture regain. However, the exact composition of the top layer of the fabric can be changed to obtain a higher or lower moisture regain, thereby adjusting the thermal conductivity. In addition, the weight content of the first yarn, the second yarn, and the third yarn in the fabric can be adjusted to provide a'summer' fabric composition and a 'winter' fabric composition.

[0131] The elastic fibers in the middle layer provide elasticity to the fabric, which enhances comfort.

[0132] In some embodiments, the PLA fibers of the first yarn may have a cross-section of X-shaped, I-shaped, Y-shaped, M-shaped, O-shaped, U-shaped, or honeycomb-shaped. The PLA fibers of the first yarn may have an X-shaped cross-section. This cross-sectional structure creates multiple spaces along the length of the first yarn, which helps to enhance the capillary action of the moisture absorption and sweat wicking ability. In the case where the top layer has a high moisture regain, the humid environment around the skin can also be optimized.

[0133] In some embodiments, the fabric is a knitted fabric, such as a plain knitted (jersey) fabric. The plain knitted fabric can be a single-sided knitted plain knitted fabric. The plain knitted fabric can be a double-sided knitted plain knitted fabric.

[0134] The first yarn and / or the third yarn may be looped with an elastic yarn. The first yarn may be looped with an elastic fiber. The third yarn may be looped with an elastic yarn. The first yarn may be looped with an elastic yarn, and the third yarn may be looped with an elastic yarn. The first yarn and the third yarn may be looped with the same type of elastic yarn or with different elastic yarns. The elastic yarn may be as described above for the second yarn. The elastic yarn can be an elastic olefin. The yarn count of the elastic yarn can be 42D or about 4.7 tex. When the first yarn and / or the third yarn can be looped with an elastic yarn, the second yarn can be a regenerated cellulose fiber (such as modal). In this case, 'looping' means knitting (braiding) the first yarn and / or the third yarn and the elastic yarn together.

[0135] In some embodiments, the fabric may comprise or consist of:

[0136] A first yarn comprising polylactic acid (PLA) fibers, the first yarn forming the bottom layer of the fabric, the bottom layer keeping sweat away from the wearer in use by contacting the wearer's skin;

[0137] A second yarn comprising elastic fibers or regenerated cellulose fibers, the second yarn forming the middle layer of the fabric; and

[0138] A third yarn comprising regenerated cellulose fibers, the third yarn forming the top outer layer of the fabric farthest from the wearer's skin, the top outer layer receiving the sweat removed from the wearer's skin and retaining the sweat such that it does not contact the wearer's skin, and

[0139] wherein the sweat present in the third yarn generates water vapor, and the water vapor provides a moisturizing effect to the wearer's skin without giving the wearer a feeling of dampness.

[0140] In some embodiments, the fabric may comprise or consist of:

[0141] A first yarn comprising polylactic acid (PLA) fibers, the first yarn forming the bottom layer of the fabric, the bottom layer keeping sweat away from the wearer in use by contacting the wearer's skin;

[0142] A second yarn comprising elastic fibers, the second yarn forming the middle layer of the fabric; and

[0143] A third yarn comprising regenerated cellulose fibers, the third yarn forming the top outer layer of the fabric farthest from the wearer's skin, the top outer layer receiving the sweat removed from the wearer's skin and retaining [the sweat such that it does not contact the wearer's skin, and

[0144] wherein the sweat present in the third yarn generates water vapor, and the water vapor provides a moisturizing effect to the wearer's skin without giving the wearer a feeling of dampness.

[0145] In the embodiments of

[0099] or

[0100] , the PLA fibers may have an X-shaped cross-section.

[0146] In the embodiments of

[0099] or

[0100] , the regenerated cellulose fiber may be Modal.

[0147] In the embodiments of

[0099] or

[0100] , the Modal may have a moisture regain of about 13%.

[0148] In the embodiment of

[0099] or

[0100] , the first yarn may account for about 15% to 60% of the fabric weight, or about 30% to 60% of the fabric weight, the second yarn may account for about 5% to 20% of the fabric weight, and the third yarn may account for about 15% to about 60% of the fabric weight, or about 30% to 60% of the fabric weight.

[0149] In the embodiment of

[0099] or

[0100] , the first yarn may be about 50 denier to about 75 denier, the second yarn may be about 33 denier to about 55 denier, and the warp and weft density of the third yarn may be about 60S to about 80S, or about 20S to about 100S, or equivalently about 9.7 tex to about 7.3 tex, or about 5 tex to about 30 tex.

[0150] An embodiment of the fabric according to the first aspect of the present disclosure is as follows.

[0151] Yarn / Layer Material Yarn Count Stitch Length / 100 Turns Composition (% of fabric weight) Third / Top Modal 60S / 70S / 80S 26 - 36 cm 33％-53％ Second / Middle Elastomeric Olefin 33D / 42D / 55D 10 - 15 cm 8％-15％ First / Bottom PLA 50D / 75D 25 - 35 cm 35％-55％

[0152] Table 1.

[0153] Another embodiment of the fabric according to the first aspect of the present disclosure is as follows.

[0154]

[0155] Table 2.

[0156] Another embodiment of the fabric according to the first aspect of the present disclosure is as follows.

[0157] Yarn / Layer Material Yarn Count Stitch Length / 100 Turns Composition (% of fabric weight) Third / Top Modal 40S / 50S / 80S 26 - 36 cm 33％-53％ Second / Middle Elastomeric Olefin 33D / 42D / 55D 10 - 15 cm 8％-15％ First / Bottom PLA 50D / 75D 25 - 35 cm 35％-55％

[0158] Table 3.

[0159] Another embodiment of the fabric according to the first aspect of the present disclosure is as follows.

[0160] Yarn / Layer Material Yarn Count Stitch Length / 100 Turns Composition (% of fabric weight) Third / Top Modal 40S / 50S / 80S 26 - 36 cm 33％-75％ Second / Middle Elastomeric Olefin 33D / 42D / 55D 10 - 15 cm 4％-15％ First / Bottom PLA 50D / 75D 25 - 35 cm 35％-55％

[0161] Table 4.

[0162] Another embodiment of the fabric according to the first aspect of the present disclosure is as follows.

[0163]

[0164] Table 5.

[0165] Another embodiment of the fabric according to the first aspect of the present disclosure is as follows.

[0166] Yarn / Layer Material Yarn Count Stitch Length Third / Top Modal in loop with elastomeric olefin 42D and 40S / 1 12.4 cm and 27.5 cm Second / Middle Modal 40S / 1 25.8 cm First / Bottom PLA in loop with elastomeric olefin 42D and 75D 12.4 cm and 27.5 cm

[0167] Table 6.

[0168] Therefore, the fabric of the present disclosure may have one or more of the following advantages:

[0169] 1. Since PLA is used in the bottom layer of the fabric, the ideal skin temperature is maintained by evaporative cooling. The fabric is hydrophobic and has a low moisture regain.

[0170] 2. The skin temperature is regulated by providing an adjustable thermal conductivity.

[0171] 3. The skin moisture content is maintained by managing sweat to achieve a dry and moist skin by creating a microclimate between the skin and the fabric.

[0172] 4. The skin pH value is maintained by using PLA (pH value of 5.5) in the bottom layer of the fabric.

[0173] 5. Allergic reactions are prevented by absorbing and evaporating sweat through the clothing rather than the skin surface to avoid salt residues remaining on the skin surface.

[0174] Preparation of the fabric as described in the present disclosure

[0175] The fabric according to the present disclosure can be prepared using a weft-knit single jersey knitting machine with a three-knitting yarn feeder (such as the three-knitting yarn feeder disclosed in Chinese Patent Application ZL201922271717.0). The knitting parameters for preparing the fabric according to an embodiment of the present disclosure are as follows:

[0176] Material Yarn Count Stitch Length / 100 Turns Composition (% of fabric weight) Modal 60S / 70S / 80S 26 - 36 cm 33％-53％ Elastomeric Olefin 33D / 42D / 55D 10 - 15 cm 8％-15％ PLA 50D / 75D 25 - 35 cm 35％-55％

[0177] Table 7.

[0178] The method is as follows:

[0179] 1. Pretreatment is carried out at 130 °C using a heat setting machine, and the machine speed is 20 yards per minute;

[0180] 2. Dyeing is carried out using reactive dyes within 4 hours or 8 hours,

[0181] Dyeing process: degreasing → adding dyes in batches → dehydration → drying the fabric;

[0182] 3. Finishing is carried out at 120 °C using a heat setting machine, and the machine speed is 20 yards per minute.

[0183] Method for treating skin diseases

[0184] In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a method for treating dermatitis in a subject in need thereof, the method comprising applying the fabric as described in the first aspect or the clothing as described in the second aspect to the dermatitis-affected area of the subject's body. Applying the fabric as described in the first aspect or the clothing as described in the second aspect to the area of the subject's body may include wearing clothing comprising the fabric as described in the first aspect. Also disclosed herein is a fabric as described in the first aspect or clothing as described in the second aspect for treating dermatitis. Also disclosed herein is the use of the fabric as described in the first aspect in the preparation of clothing for treating dermatitis.

[0185] In one embodiment, when used for treating dermatitis, the fabric as described in the first aspect of the present disclosure or the clothing as described in the second aspect of the present disclosure is applied to the area of the subject's body such that the third yarn comprising regenerated cellulose fibers forms the top outer layer furthest from the skin, and the first yarn comprising PLA forms the bottom layer (i.e., the layer in contact with the skin). The duration of applying the fabric to the skin or wearing the clothing and the sweating intensity of the wearer during that period can be determined by a surgeon or a dermatologist.

[0186] In another embodiment, when used for treating dermatitis, the fabric as described in the first aspect of the present disclosure or the clothing as described in the second aspect of the present disclosure is initially intended to be worn, wherein the top layer is in direct contact with the patient's skin. Then, the patient can subsequently be subjected to various stimuli to cause sweating. Sweating can be induced by various methods (such as exercise, raising the room temperature, or immersing the patient's feet in a warm water bath). The duration and intensity of sweating can be determined by an attending physician or a dermatologist. Once the fabric has reached a sufficient moisture content, it can be removed by the patient, turned inside out, and reapplied such that the regenerated cellulose fiber layer becomes the top layer and the PLA layer becomes the bottom layer (i.e., the layer in contact with the skin). Thus, in another aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a method of wearing clothing as described in the second aspect of the present disclosure, the clothing being composed of a fabric as described in the first aspect of the present disclosure, the fabric comprising a top layer, an intermediate layer, and a bottom layer as defined above with respect to the first aspect, the method comprising (i) wearing the clothing in a first orientation such that the top layer of the fabric is in contact with the wearer's skin, and then (ii) wearing the clothing in a second orientation such that the bottom layer of the fabric is in contact with the wearer's skin.

[0187] In the methods and uses of the present disclosure, dermatitis may be selected from the group consisting of: atopic dermatitis (eczema), contact dermatitis, photoallergic dermatitis, diaper dermatitis, hyperhidrotic dermatitis, neurodermatitis, nummular dermatitis, perioral / periorbital dermatitis, seborrheic dermatitis, venous or gravitational dermatitis, metabolic dermatitis, chronic superficial squamous dermatitis, asteatotic dermatitis, erythrodermic dermatitis, and stasis dermatitis. Dermatitis may be atopic dermatitis (i.e., eczema).

[0188] The moisture absorption characteristics of the PLA layer continuously draw sweat from the skin of the wearer into the regenerated fiber layer, so that the regenerated fiber layer is continuously replenished. This has the effect of placing the patient in contact with a dry surface and a layer of moisture above the skin, and this layer of moisture acts as a moisturizer without a feeling of dampness. If moisture is directly set in contact with the skin (according to the existing treatment method), the stratum corneum of the skin will be damaged, resulting in wrinkling and discomfort. In addition, due to different pH values and mineral concentrations, the human skin may be irritated by direct contact with water. In many cases, this irritation may ultimately prolong and even worsen the symptoms of eczema.

[0189] The present disclosure can be defined by the numbered embodiments listed below.

[0190] 1. A fabric, comprising:

[0191] a. a first yarn containing polylactic acid (PLA) fibers;

[0192] b. a second yarn containing elastic fibers; and

[0193] c. a third yarn containing regenerated cellulose fibers.

[0194] 2. The fabric according to embodiment 1, wherein the first yarn is a filament yarn.

[0195] 3. The fabric according to embodiment 1 or embodiment 2, wherein the PLA fibers have an X-shaped cross-section.

[0196] 4. The fabric according to any one of embodiments 1-3, wherein the first yarn is about 40 denier to about 150 denier.

[0197] 5. The fabric according to any one of embodiments 1-4, wherein the first yarn is about 50 denier to about 75 denier.

[0198] 6. The fabric according to any one of embodiments 1-5, wherein the stitch length / 100 turns of the first yarn is about 20 cm to about 40 cm.

[0199] 7. The fabric according to any one of embodiments 1-6, wherein the stitch length / 100 turns of the first yarn is about 25 cm to about 35 cm.

[0200] 8. The fabric according to any one of embodiments 1-7, wherein the first yarn accounts for about 15% to about 60% of the weight of the fabric.

[0201] 9. The fabric according to any one of embodiments 1-8, wherein the first yarn accounts for about 35% to about 55% of the weight of the fabric.

[0202] 10. The fabric according to any one of Embodiments 1-9, wherein the first yarn is composed of PLA fibers.

[0203] 11. The fabric according to any one of Embodiments 1-10, wherein the second yarn is a filament yarn.

[0204] 12. The fabric according to any one of Embodiments 1-11, wherein the second yarn is about 25 denier to about 65 denier.

[0205] 13. The fabric according to any one of Embodiments 1-12, wherein the second yarn is about 33 denier to about 55 denier.

[0206] 14. The fabric according to any one of Embodiments 1-13, wherein the stitch length of the second yarn per 100 loops is about 5 cm to about 20 cm.

[0207] 15. The fabric according to any one of Embodiments 1-14, wherein the stitch length of the second yarn per 100 loops is about 10 cm to about 15 cm.

[0208] 16. The fabric according to any one of Embodiments 1-15, wherein the second yarn accounts for about 5% to about 20% of the weight of the fabric.

[0209] 17. The fabric according to any one of Embodiments 1-16, wherein the second yarn accounts for about 8% to about 15% of the weight of the fabric.

[0210] 18. The fabric according to any one of Embodiments 1-17, wherein the elastic fiber is selected from the group consisting of: elastic olefins, polyurethane elastic fibers, diene elastic fibers, polyether ester elastic fibers, and polyolefin elastomer fibers.

[0211] 19. The fabric according to any one of Embodiments 1-18, wherein the second yarn is composed of polyurethane elastic fibers.

[0212] 20. The fabric according to any one of Embodiments 1-19, wherein the moisture regain of the third yarn is about 10% to about 20%.

[0213] 21. The fabric according to any one of Embodiments 1-20, wherein the third yarn is a staple fiber yarn.

[0214] 22. The fabric according to any one of Embodiments 1-21, wherein the third yarn further comprises polyester or cotton.

[0215] 23. The fabric according to any one of Embodiments 1-22, wherein the regenerated cellulose fiber is modal, tencel cotton, rayon, cupro fiber or a combination thereof.

[0216] 24. The fabric according to any one of Embodiments 1-23, wherein the regenerated cellulose fiber is modal.

[0217] 25. The fabric according to any one of Embodiments 1-24, wherein the third yarn is composed of modal.

[0218] 26. The fabric according to any one of Embodiments 1-25, wherein the third yarn accounts for about 30% to about 80% of the weight of the fabric.

[0219] 27. The fabric according to any one of Embodiments 1-26, wherein the third yarn accounts for about 33% to about 53% of the weight of the fabric.

[0220] 28. The fabric according to any one of Embodiments 1-27, wherein the stitch length of the third yarn per 100 loops is about 20 cm to about 40 cm.

[0221] 29. The fabric according to any one of Embodiments 1-28, wherein the stitch length of the third yarn per 100 loops is about 26 cm to about 36 cm.

[0222] 30. The fabric according to any one of Embodiments 1-29, wherein the warp and weft density of the third yarn is about 5 tex to about 30 tex.

[0223] 31. The fabric according to any one of Embodiments 1-29, wherein the warp and weft density of the third yarn is about 10 tex to about 7 tex.

[0224] 32. The fabric according to any one of Embodiments 1-31, wherein the second yarn is interwoven between the first yarn and the third yarn.

[0225] 33. The fabric according to any one of Embodiments 1-32, wherein the first yarn, the second yarn and the third yarn are presented as layers.

[0226] 34. The fabric according to Embodiment 32 or Embodiment 33, wherein the fabric is composed of three layers.

[0227] 35. The fabric according to Embodiment 32 or Embodiment 33, wherein the first yarn forms the bottom layer, the second yarn forms the middle layer, and the third yarn forms the top layer.

[0228] 36. The fabric according to any one of Embodiments 1-35, wherein the fabric is a knitted fabric.

[0229] 37. The fabric according to Embodiment 36, wherein the knitted fabric is a plain weave fabric.

[0230] 38. The fabric according to any one of Embodiments 1-37, wherein the fabric is a moisturizing fabric.

[0231] 39. A piece of clothing made of the fabric according to any one of Embodiments 1-38 or comprising the fabric according to any one of Embodiments 1-38.

[0232] 40. The piece of clothing according to Embodiment 39, wherein the piece of clothing comprises a fabric, and the fabric comprises or consists of:

[0233] A first yarn containing polylactic acid (PLA) fibers, and the first yarn forms the bottom layer of the fabric adapted to contact the skin of the wearer;

[0234] A second yarn containing elastic fibers or regenerated cellulose fibers, and the second yarn forms the intermediate layer of the fabric; and

[0235] A third yarn containing regenerated cellulose fibers, and the third yarn forms the top outer layer of the fabric farthest from the skin of the wearer.

[0236] 41. The piece of clothing according to Embodiment 39 or Embodiment 40, wherein the piece of clothing comprises a fabric, and the fabric comprises or consists of:

[0237] A first yarn containing polylactic acid (PLA) fibers, and the first yarn forms the bottom layer of the fabric adapted to contact the skin of the wearer;

[0238] A second yarn containing elastic fibers, and the second yarn forms the intermediate layer of the fabric; and

[0239] A third yarn containing regenerated cellulose fibers, and the third yarn forms the top outer layer of the fabric farthest from the skin of the wearer.

[0240] 42. The piece of clothing according to any one of Embodiments 39-41, wherein the piece of clothing is selected from the group consisting of: shirts, sports vests, sweatshirts, pajamas, bodysuits, fleece jackets, shorts, trousers, hoods, running caps, newsboy caps, helmet liners, face masks, headbands, and socks.

[0241] 43. A method for treating dermatitis in a subject in need thereof, the method comprising applying a fabric as described in any one of Examples 1-38 or a garment as described in any one of Examples 39-42 to the dermatitis-affected area of the subject's body.

[0242] 44. The method according to Example 43, wherein the dermatitis is eczema.

[0243] Example

[0244] The present inventors have conducted a preliminary clinical study comparing the effects of functional T-shirts on patients with atopic dermatitis (AD) in summer and winter. Nine AD outpatients wore Comfiknit Atopic T-shirts (shirts prepared from the fabric according to the first aspect of the present disclosure) as underwear for four weeks in each season, and the effects and seasonal differences were examined. The severity of AD, the degree of itching, the skin condition, and the satisfaction were also evaluated to determine the effect of wearing Comfiknit T-shirts on AD.

[0245] Materials and Methods

[0246] Fabric

[0247] Comfiknit Atopic T-shirts were selected for the study. The T-shirts were made of three layers. The bottom layer in contact with the skin was made of polylactic acid (PLA). PLA is a hydrophobic fiber. In this study, PLA with a cross-shaped cross-section was used to discharge excess sweat from the skin. The middle layer was made of spandex, which provides elasticity. The outermost top layer was made of modal (a hydrophilic fiber that absorbs sweat and helps retain moisture by retaining the absorbed sweat). For winter or summer, the T-shirts were prepared in two modes. In both of these T-shirts, the stitches (stitches) do not contact the skin on the outside. The winter T-shirt has long sleeves, a crew neck, and is green. The summer T-shirt has short sleeves, a V-neck, and is white (Figure 6). The yarns used in these T-shirts are the same, although the thicknesses are different due to the use of different blended fabrics, but the yarns used in these T-shirts are the same. The composition of the T-shirts is shown in Table 8 below and Figure 1-4 in.

[0248]

[0249] Table 8.

[0250] Research protocol

[0251] The study recruited ten adult outpatients with AD. Baseline (at enrollment) evaluations were performed for WBC ( / μL), Eo (%), Eo ( / μL), TARC (pg / ml), and IgE (lU / ml). The study was approved by the institutional review board of Nagasaki University, Japan, and registered at the University Hospital Medical Information Network Clinical Trial Registry (UMIN-CTR; UMIN000042252).

[0252] At the start of the study, the patients were given three Comfiknit Atopic T-shirts to wear as underwear during the study. The T-shirt sizes were selected by the patients through try-on or visual inspection. Fabric softeners were not permitted for washing the T-shirts. In addition, the T-shirts could be washed and ironed as normal. The patients wore the T-shirts for 4 weeks each during winter and summer to account for seasonal changes. One patient did not complete the study during winter, but the other nine patients were the same during both periods. EASI (Eczema Area and Severity Index), POEM (Patient-Oriented Eczema Measure), itch VAS (Visual Analogue Scale), and SCWC (Stratum Corneum Water Content), skin pH, and skin bacterial cultures were evaluated 4 weeks before and after the intervention (see Figure 7 ).

[0253] SCWC was measured by measuring hydration (pS) using SKICON-200EX-USB (YAYOI Co., Ltd., Tokyo, Japan). Skin pH was measured using LAQUA F-74 (HORIBA, Advanced Techno, Co., Ltd., Kyoto, Japan). SCWC and skin pH were detected in the middle of the chest. Bacterial cultures were detected in the middle of the back. The licensed TSQM-9 (Treatment Satisfaction Questionnaire-9) was used to evaluate satisfaction with wearing the T-shirts. Since the TSQM-9 measures satisfaction with medical treatment, the TSQM-9 results in this study were considered to indirectly indicate satisfaction. The treatment for AD was not changed during the winter test or summer study period.

[0254] Results

[0255] Patient characteristics

[0256] Patient characteristics are summarized in Table 9. Nine recruited patients completed the trial (one patient withdrew from the study and patient characteristics of this patient were not shown). There were six males and three females, with a mean age of 39.3 years. All patients were enrolled in the Department of Dermatology, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Nagasaki, Japan, for the treatment of AD. All patients received standard AD treatment. In addition, 4 patients received dupilumab treatment, 2 patients received ultraviolet light treatment, and 1 patient received oral cyclosporine. The mean pre-test blood test results were WBC 6578 / μL, Eo 4.4%, Eo 275 / μL, TARC 1990 pg / mL, and IgE 8767 IU / mL, respectively.

[0257]

[0258] Table 9. Clinical characteristics of study subjects at enrollment.

[0259] Results

[0260] The result measurements are presented in Tables 10 and 11 and Figure 8 in. The mean EASI scores after four weeks of wearing the Comfiknit Atopic T-shirt were lower than those at Week 0 in both winter and summer. Specifically, patients with an EASI score higher than 21 at Week 0 and classified as having severe AD tended to have lower scores after wearing the T-shirt for 4 weeks (Table 10, Figure 8 A). The mean POEM scores after four weeks of wearing the T-shirt were also lower than those at Week 0 in both winter and summer. Among case-specific characteristics, patients with higher POEM scores at Week 0 had lower scores at Week 4, although Patient A in winter and Patients G and H in summer showed higher POEM scores at Week 4 (Table 10, Figure 8 B). The mean VAS scores after wearing these T-shirts for 4 weeks were lower than those at Week 0 in both winter and summer. However, the changes in itch VAS scores varied among individuals. There was no correlation between pruritus and AD severity (Table 10, Figure 8 C). In both studies, the skin pH values of most patients remained slightly acidic. In winter, a pH value of 10.73 was observed in Patient E at Week 0, which might be a measurement error (Table 10, Figure 8 D). At Week 0, the SCWC of most patients was lower in winter and higher in summer. The mean SCWC after four weeks of wearing the T-shirt was higher than that at Week 0 in both time periods, but the individual scores of about half of the patients were lower after four weeks (Table 10, Figure 8E). The average TSQM-9 scores for the T-shirts worn were 56.6 for effectiveness, 65.0 for convenience, and 56.4 for global satisfaction in summer, and 73.9 for effectiveness, 85.6 for convenience, and 70.0 for global satisfaction in winter (Table 10, Figure 8 F). Bacterial cultures showed changes in species at week 0 and week four in both summer and winter, but no consistent trend was shown (Table 11).

[0261]

[0262]

[0263] Table 10. Results of EASI, POEM, itch VAS, pH, SCWC, TSQM-9.

[0264] *Only in winter, **only in summer. Abbreviations: WBC, white blood cell; Eo, eosinophil; TARC, thymus and activation-regulated chemokine; IgE, immunoglobulin E; PUVA, psoralen and ultraviolet A photochemotherapy.

[0265]

[0266] Table 11. Results of bacterial cultures. Abbreviations: CNS, coagulase-negative staphylococci; SA, Staphylococcus aureus; GGS, group G streptococci.

[0267] Discussion

[0268] In this study, the intervention effects of Comfiknit Atopic T-shirts on the same nine patients were examined in two seasons (summer and winter). These T-shirts were envisioned to absorb excess sweat from the skin surface and retain moisture within the garment. It was hypothesized that the better water absorption and quick-drying properties of these T-shirts might help prevent disease exacerbation. The average SCWC was higher in both summer and winter four weeks after the intervention, indicating that wearing these T-shirts can prevent skin dryness.

[0269] Due to wearing the T-shirts, there was no change in pH, and the skin pH remained slightly acidic (Table 10, Figure 8 E), and there was no significant effect on the results of skin bacterial cultures (Table 11). The pH of normal skin is 4.5 to 6.0. The acidic pH participates in skin protection by providing a favorable environment for the normal microbiota and maintaining the stratum corneum barrier structure. The exacerbation of AD is associated with the growth of Staphylococcus aureus caused by a neutral skin pH. Therefore, the results of skin pH and bacterial cultures are consistent with the fact that AD did not deteriorate.

[0270] The TSQM-9 score reveals good convenience both in winter and summer. In addition, for all items, the TSQM-9 score in summer is higher than that in winter. The functional T-shirt can be simply worn instead of a regular underwear, which is convenient and may increase adhesion.

[0271] Although the present disclosure has been described with reference to specific embodiments, those skilled in the art will understand that the present disclosure can be embodied in many other forms.

Claims

1. A fabric, comprising: A first yarn comprising polylactic acid (PLA) fibers; A second yarn comprising elastane fibers or regenerated cellulose fibers; and A third yarn comprising regenerated cellulose fibers.

2. The fabric according to claim 1, wherein, The second yarn comprises elastane fibers.

3. The fabric according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein, The first yarn accounts for about 15% to about 60% of the weight of the fabric.

4. The fabric according to any one of claims 1-3, wherein, The first yarn is composed of PLA fibers.

5. The fabric according to any one of claims 1-4, wherein, The second yarn accounts for about 5% to about 20% of the weight of the fabric.

6. The fabric according to any one of claims 1-5, wherein, The elastane fibers are selected from the group consisting of: elastomeric olefins, polyurethane elastane fibers, diene elastane fibers, polyether ester elastane fibers, and polyolefin elastomer fibers.

7. The fabric according to any one of claims 1-6, wherein, The second yarn is composed of polyurethane elastane fibers.

8. The fabric according to any one of claims 1-7, wherein, The moisture regain of the third yarn is about 10% to about 20%.

9. The fabric according to any one of claims 1-8, wherein, The regenerated cellulose fibers are modal, lyocell cotton, rayon, cupro, bamboo, cotton, or a combination thereof.

10. The fabric according to any one of claims 1-9, wherein, The regenerated cellulose fibers are modal.

11. The fabric according to any one of claims 1-10, wherein, The third yarn is composed of modal.

12. The fabric according to any one of claims 1-11, wherein, The third yarn accounts for about 30% to about 80% of the weight of the fabric.

13. The fabric according to any one of claims 1-12, wherein, The second yarn is interwoven between the first yarn and the third yarn.

14. The fabric according to any one of claims 1-13, wherein, The first yarn, the second yarn, and the third yarn are presented as layers.

15. The fabric according to claim 14, wherein, The first yarn forms the bottom layer, the second yarn forms the middle layer, and the third yarn forms the top layer.

16. The fabric according to any one of claims 1-15, wherein, The fabric is a knitted fabric.

17. The fabric according to claim 16, wherein, The knitted fabric is a plain weave fabric.

18. The fabric according to any one of claims 1-17, wherein, The first yarn and / or the third yarn is looped with elastane fibers.

19. A piece of clothing, said piece of clothing being made of or containing the fabric as described in any one of claims 1-18.

20. The piece of clothing as described in claim 19, wherein, The garment comprises a fabric comprising or consisting of: A first yarn comprising polylactic acid (PLA) fibers, the first yarn forming the bottom layer of the fabric adapted to contact the skin of the wearer; A second yarn comprising elastane fibers or regenerated cellulose fibers, the second yarn forming the middle layer of the fabric; and A third yarn comprising regenerated cellulose fibers, the third yarn forming the top outer layer of the fabric furthest from the skin of the wearer.

21. The piece of clothing as described in claim 19 or 20, wherein, The garment is selected from the group consisting of: shirts, sports vests, sweatshirts, pajamas, leggings, fleece, shorts, trousers, hoods, running caps, newsboy caps, helmet liners, face masks, headbands, and socks.

22. A method for treating dermatitis in a subject in need thereof, said method comprising applying the fabric as described in any one of claims 1-18 or the piece of clothing as described in any one of claims 19-21 to the area of the body of the subject affected by the dermatitis.

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