Eczema is an inflammatory skin condition characterized by patches of red, itchy, and dry skin. Approximately 10% of the population is affected by eczema, a condition that currently has no cure. Fortunately, there are natural remedies available to help treat and manage symptoms. One such way is by wet dressing eczema. Read on to discover the best wet dressing for eczema treatment.
Please keep in mind that although what we discuss in this post can relieve eczema, we are in no way, medical professionals. If you’re experiencing severe eczema symptoms like an infection, it is best to seek medical advice immediately.
What is Wet Dressing?
Wet dressing, also known as wet wrap therapy, is an effective at-home treatment that helps heal eczema. The process involves soaking the skin in water, sealing it with a moisturizer, and then covering it with a damp piece of clothing to help lock in the moisture. Wet dressing is particularly helpful during intense eczema flare-ups because it helps relieve itchiness, soothe irritation, and rehydrate the skin by enhancing the effectiveness of creams and ointments.
How to Wet Wrap
While wet dressing offers immediate and short-term relief by providing dry ski or weepy eczema with a cooling and soothing sensation, it can sometimes be difficult to apply – especially for children. It works best for more moderate to severe cases of eczema. Here are some simple steps to try wet wrap therapy:
- Soak the troubled area in lukewarm water for 15-20 minutes. We highly encourage you to use lukewarm water as opposed to hot. This is because hot water has a greater tendency to further dry out eczema-prone skin.
- Gently pat dry with a towel. Do not engage in any harsh rubbing as this will only exacerbate symptoms.
- Apply a natural eczema cream and cover it with a soft eczema-friendly piece of clothing.
- Leave on as part of an overnight treatment or for a minimum of two hours.
- Remove the clothing and reapply a moisturizer.
- The process can be repeated 2-3 times per day.
Wet Dressing and Eczema
When wet dressing, it’s important to use safe and effective skincare products, as well as eczema-friendly fabrics. This is to avoid further aggravating your skin condition by using creams and ointments that contain harsh toxins or chemicals. In addition, many fabrics (including fabric dyes, detergents, and processing chemicals) are eczema triggers that will only serve to worsen symptoms.
For this reason, we recommend our Organic Manuka Skin Soothing Cream. It’s made with 6 simple yet effective ingredients, including Manuka honey which is renowned for its supreme anti-bacterial properties. Rich in emollients, it helps moisturize even the driest of skin without any burning or stinging.
You can also try this Conqueror Soothing Eczema Balm. This 15-in-1 formula uses 100% natural ingredients to provide the skin long lasting hydration and relief. Combine it with wet wrap therapy to naturally moisturize dry and inflamed skin.
In terms of hypoallergenic fabrics, we love these Remedywear™ sleeves. Perfect for babies and adults, they are made from eco-friendly TENCEL and embedded with zinc oxide which offers antimicrobial and antibacterial properties. They are perfect for spot-treating difficult areas like the creases of elbows and the bends of the knees.
References:
https://nationaleczema.org/eczema/treatment/wet-wrap-therapy/
https://www.verywellfamily.com/wet-dressings-for-eczema-2633568
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Bio: Laura is a contributor and content developer for The Eczema Company. She is in no way a medical professional. Her comments, suggestions, and reflections are not intended to replace any medical advice. Always seek the help of a medical professional before undertaking any diet or lifestyle changes.
