When ointments, creams and medications are not effective as forms of eczema treatment, perhaps it is time you consider wet wrap therapy. This kind of therapy is able to provide immense relief and at the same time moisturize the sooth and itchy skin. But what is wet wrap therapy?
Wet wrap therapy is all about wrapping wet bandages around the sore skin. It is a mixture of warm water and a special moisturizer and before you wrap yourself up, you have to soak yourself first in a bath with emollient oil so the skin will soon become moist. In cases when the eczema is severe, you can apply anti-itching cream first.
This type of therapy can be used on any part of the body including the face. To make it effective, the wet bandages should be wrapped over dry ones.
The advantage of wet wrap therapy is that it can rehydrate the damaged skin, make you sleep better, reduce the itching you feel and decrease the redness on your skin. This also prevents secondary infection because sometimes, you have the urge to scratch the affected area and without protection, you are sure to make things worse.
Such benefits have been proven in various studies. One study shows that 74% of children who underwent wet wrap therapy reduced their itching habits after just a week. Another study shows that children were able to sleep better because with the help of the moisturizer, they didnt feel the need to scratch.
The only negative thing about wet wrap therapy is the preparation time. Children are not able to sit still for a long period of time making it difficult for whoever is wrapping them with the bandage. Another challenge is adjusting to the sensation of a wet bandage around their body which is quite understandable given that this is not something we are not accustomed to. In the end, you get used to it.
Luckily, for those who are impatient, an alternative will be to moisten your pajamas or whatever clothing you are using. Keep in mind that the temperature in the room must not be too cold because you are already feel cold due to the wet bandages.
Unlike light therapy that is used to treat eczema, this type of treatment is only done for a week or two. During that time, you have to keep the skin hydrated throughout the day with the help of a moisturizer. To make sure that the treatment is effective, you also have to stay away from allergens or other irritants that may cause eczema flare-ups.
Wet wrap therapy is not only used for mild eczema but also for severe atopic dermatitis. In fact, the advantages of this form of therapy are the same. Although doctors recommend it, there are those who are skeptic because of certain risks such as increased cutaneous infections and folliculitis.
Wet wrap therapy is just one of the many forms of eczema treatment now available. If ointments, creams or medication dont work, ask your doctor about it. Just like the other treatments, this can be done at home with the help of a family member as long as they are properly taught how to wrap the bandage around you and take it off.