Skintact

In the United States alone, 30% of the population suffers from eczema. The causes of eczema are unknown, and there is no cure available. The symptoms and effects are compromised skin that cannot retain water and becomes very dry, causing itching and making it vulnerable to infections. Skintact is inspired by athletic tape used by athletes for joint stabilisation and muscle support. Skintact patches are packaged in refillable dispensers and come in a tape-like roll with a pre-perforated backer to preserve the medicated adhesive. Users can tear off a strip of patches at the desired length and apply it to the affected area; the modular patch shape covers both small and large areas. A breathable but dense patch weave reduces moisture loss while the translucent thread blends into every skin colour. The design of the Skintact patch is clean and has a dynamic aesthetic. When prescribed, UV light may be used to fight more severe eczema, as light therapy has been shown to increase vitamin D production and boost bacteria-fighting cells. The SKINTACT dispenser accommodates a battery-operated UV light node that attaches to select patches. Only one wireless node is needed on a single patch for a prescribed amount of time, as the fibres in each patch distribute the light throughout the entire field for effective coverage.