Skin Relief Techniques: All About Wet Wrapping for Managing Eczema Flare Ups

Have you tried wet wrapping? A natural remedy that can be helpful for irritated, itchy, or inflamed skin, wet wrapping can be incredibly effective, yet is not as well known as some popular relief remedies. Here is what you need to know:

What is wet wrapping and who is it for? Much like it sounds, wet wrapping is a natural treatment remedy that entails wrapping the skin in wet or moistened cloth or gauze. Because many people who experience eczema also struggle with very dry skin, this approach was developed to help infuse more hydration directly into the skin and promote better retention of moisture.

Although it is typically utilized for people experiencing an extreme flareup of eczema or atopic dermatitis, wet wrapping can be used by anyone prone to eczema outbreaks. It is known to be very effective for alleviating common symptoms associated with eczema, such as irritation, itchiness, or redness. Additionally, when cold water is used, wet wraps can be very helpful for cooling and providing relief for any pain or discomfort.

What are the benefits of wet wrapping? Besides the benefits we’ve already mentioned, eczema experts have also determined that wet wrapping can have some additional advantages, including:

● Benefit #1: Better results from topical creams and ointments- By aiding in relaxing the skin and the pores, wet wrapping can increase the efficacy of other treatments applied such as steroid creams, and other targeted medications. Additionally, the weight of the wrap can help lock nourishing formulas in, ensuring they are properly absorbed into the skin.

● Benefit #2: Better sleep and improved rest - When struggling with the unpleasant effects of an eczema outbreak, pain, itching, and irritation can lead to heightened stress and lack of sleep, which will only worsen symptoms. However, those who use wet wrapping say it provides a very soothing effect which can make it easier to sleep, improving immunity and promoting the body’s natural healing responses.

● Benefit #3: Better overall skin health - By helping to improve skin moisture levels, wet wrapping also acts as natural preventative skin care. Experts say it will help reduce bacteria on the skin including staph bacteria that can result in infection. Plus, all skin types can benefit from added hydration, which can improve tone and texture, and keep skin functioning optimally.

Tip #1: Use a clean cloth or gauze - For best results, it is recommended that you use a simple white cotton or fresh gauze for your wet layer. It should be moist and damp, (but not overly saturated) with warm or cool water, depending on your preference.

Apply to the affected area - Wet wrapping can be done just about anywhere on the body, including the face. For this step, you’ll want to ensure that the dressings are firmly affixed to the skin but not so tight as to be uncomfortable or impair circulation.

Tip #2: Cover with dry dressing - After your wet wraps are securely in place, you’ll then want to cover them with a dry wrap and/or comfortable dry clothing. This way the wraps can be left on for a few hours, or even overnight.

Tip #3: Pair with other treatment techniques- For best results, you can also use wet wrapping in conjunction with other eczema relief products or practices. For example, you can use wet wrapping following a warm bath, after applying moisturizer, or with other topical ointments to combine treatments and reinforce the benefits of both.