Psoriasis can be rather irritating, but there are a variety of natural remedies that can help relieve symptoms.
One of these natural remedies relies on finding appropriate clothing for psoriasis that can be used for both wet and dry wrapping.
Discover the best types of clothing for psoriasis below.
What is Psoriasis?
Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease that causes skin plaque patches that are typically red, itchy and irritated. Although these patches can appear throughout the body, the most common areas tend to be on elbows, knees, scalp and back.
Similarly to eczema, psoriasis can be relieved through both wet and dry wrapping in order to nourish and soothe irritated skin.
Finding the right clothes for wrapping psoriasis doesn't have to be complicated, but there are various types of materials that should be avoided to prevent further irritation and infection.
Wrapping for Psoriasis
What is wrapping for psoriasis? There are two types of wrapping. Wet wrapping and dry wrapping. Dry wrapping is when you apply an emollient to slightly damp skin and cover it with clothing to lock in the moisture. This works well when done overnight or all through the day. Learn more about how to dry wrap. Wet wrapping involves soaking in a bath, then applying an emollient and covering the skin with a damp layer of clothing and covering that with a dry layer of clothing. When the wet wrapping treatment is over (usually 2 hours to overnight) another layer of emollient is applied to the skin. Learn more about wet wrapping here.
So which is right for you? Typically dry wrapping is much easier and is a great place to start. If you have really stubborn psoriasis, and dry wrapping isn't enough, give wet wrapping a try.
Although there is much information out there that claims psoriasis plastic wrap or saran wrap can work in place of clothing, we suggest avoiding these materials. Plastic wrap or saran wrap is not a breathable material and can induce sweating and perhaps cause further irritation and possibly infection. The skin definitely needs to breathe. Not to mention, many forms of plastic wrap contain harmful synthetic ingredients that can be absorbed by the skin. Yuck.
Whether dry or wet wrapping for psoriasis, you want to make sure to use breathable materials that are hypoallergenic, as well as made from the most natural ingredients such as organic cotton or TENCEL fabric.
Using clothing that is specifically made for eczema or psoriasis can take out the guesswork in which materials to use, as specific fabrics, dyes and stitching are chosen for irritated skin.
Dry Wrap Clothing for Psoriasis
When looking for dry wrap clothing for psoriasis, it is always best to look for those that use breathable, hypoallergenic and dye-free material. Remedywear™ and psoriasis is a wonderful line that uses TENCEL and zinc-embedded fibers that help nourish and protect irritated skin.
In a recent clinical study [1], it was proven to reduce the severity of atopic dermatitis, reduce itchiness and improve quality of sleep when worn overnight for three consecutive nights.
For elbow, back or chest psoriasis, make sure to check out these Long Sleeve Shirt for Adults, as well as Long Sleeve Shirt for Kids or Shelf Bra that are made tight and help soothe skin both during the day and overnight.
For knee or thigh psoriasis, make sure to check out these Pants for Adults and Pants for Kids that are stretchy and can be turned inside out to prevent seam irritation.
Lastly, for spot treating psoriasis, take a look at these Remedywear Sleeves for all ages that can be worn on both arms and legs.
Remedywear has many great options including socks and gloves, so definitely check out the full line of Remedywear which includes garments for babies to adults.
All these pieces have been designed specifically for dry wrapping and can be used both under clothing in the day or as an overnight treatment.
Remedywear was awarded the National Eczema Association Seal of Acceptance™.
Wet Wrap Clothing for Psoriasis
Since wet wrapping is a bit more intense, it will produce more intense results and should never be used with prescription topical creams unless recommended by a doctor. And wet wrapping shouldn't be used as a long-term, permanent fix. All that aside, this therapy can sometimes offer very speedy relief.
Simply follow this guide on wet wrapping to learn more.
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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.
