The method of wet dressings is an important element in the treatment of atopic dermatitis, eczema, psoriasis, lichen and other dermatological diseases that are manifested by redness, dry skin, itching and eczema lesions. Wet dressings alleviate these symptoms and additionally constitute a protective barrier, e.g. against allergens. Check what the method of wet dressings is and how to use it.

The method of wet wrapping(called wet wrapping) is a dermatological treatment aimed at relieving symptoms such as dryness, redness (erythema), eczema (also atopic) and itching, as well as protection against further skin irritation.

What are wet dressings?

Wet dressingsare bandages or medical clothing made of viscose fabrics that allow the skin to "breathe". In addition, the viscose fibers are braided with an elastomer, thanks to which these fabrics have the ability to stretch in many directions.

Healing bandages are used when only part of the skin is affected by the disease. On the other hand, medical clothing, consisting of leggings and a long-sleeved T-shirt, is used when the disease has spread to a larger area of ​​the body. Both bandages and clothing consist of two layers - the one to be wetted and applied directly to the skin, and the dry one, which is applied over the wet layer.

The method of wet dressings - who is it for?

The method of wet dressings is intended for people who struggle with dermatological diseases, such as atopic dermatitis, eczema, psoriasis, lichen and others, which are manifested by erythema, itching or eczema. The method of wet dressings is also recommended when it is necessary to use topical steroids or ointments.

How do wet dressings work?

After putting a wet dressing on the skin, the water partially evaporates (to the level of humidity of approx. 60%), which stimulates the nerve endings of the nerve fibers responsible for the feeling of cold, which reduces the feeling of itching transmitted through pain nerves to the central nervous system.

Most importantly, however, the dressings leave emollients and medications in direct contact with the skin and allowtheir better absorption by the skin, which results in its maximum softening and hydration, as well as reducing redness and inhibiting the inflammatory response.

Wet dressings are very practical as they prevent the transfer of emollients and creams from the body to bedding or pajamas. It is also important that they constitute a mechanical barrier against scratching. They also prevent direct contact of the body with potential allergens causing skin diseases.

In addition, wet dressings, by cooling the skin, slightly lower the body temperature, which is especially desirable on hot, hot days and nights, when due to excessive heat and increased itching, concentration problems or sleep disorders appear.

Wet dressing - only on doctor's recommendation

The method of wet dressings makes it possible to use milder drugs to achieve effects similar to those expected from the use of, for example, steroids. A wet dressing increases the absorption of steroids, creams and ointments. As such, doctors often recommend lighter steroids than non-wet dressing treatments. So if you want to use this method, be sure to contact your doctor before using it to select the appropriate dose of the drug.

The method of wet dressings - how to apply?

Medical clothing

  1. Prepare 2 layers of healing clothing before going to bed. Put one of them in a bowl with warm, boiled water.
  2. Thoroughly wash your body, dry it and apply emollients, steroids or other ointments to the skin.
  3. Take the soaked clothing out of the bowl and squeeze it gently to remove excess water. If they are leggings, roll them up (roll up the legs as high as possible) and put them on, making sure they are stitched to the outside. Then unwrap each leg separately towards the feet. If it is a long-sleeved T-shirt, roll it up as well (roll up the sleeves and the torso), then put it on and unfold towards the waist. Finally, roll up the sleeves towards the palm of your hand. The material should be unrolled in such a way as not to transfer or wipe the preparation previously applied to the skin. Finally, make sure the garment fits snugly against your body, with no creases or creases.
  4. Then, in the same way, directly over the wet layer, put another layer of clothing - dry (also with the seams outside). You can then put on pajamas or other clothes over the dry layer.

Bandage

First, the circumference of the limb and the size of the skin lesions are measured. So you can choose the right onesize the bandage and cut off the length you need. Then it is rubbed into the skin, where a dressing, emollient or medications will be applied. Then you need to "roll" the bandage and stretch it slightly so that you can put it on your arm or leg. A dry dressing is then applied in the same way.

The method of wet dressings - contraindications

A wet dressing creates a very humid environment, which promotes the growth of bacteria and the spread of infection through the skin. Therefore, wet dressing should not be used when skin infectious conditions appear.

The method of wet dressings - how often to use?

Wet dressings should be used daily, preferably at night. Sometimes you can put them on twice a day, but when worn at night they seem to be more effective.

The method of wet dressings - how long to use?

It depends on how the skin reacts to the treatment, therefore the decision about the duration of the treatment should be consulted with your doctor. It is assumed that in people who use steroids, the therapy should last 7-14 days. If the skin condition improves significantly, treatment can be continued with a wet dressing, but with emollients (instead of steroids).

Category:

Dermatology