If you’re living with eczema, you already know that flare-ups can take over every part of your day your sleep, your mood, your focus, and even your confidence. I’ve spoken to many people who tell me that their worst flares come out of nowhere and feel impossible to settle, even with their usual moisturisers or prescription creams. When your skin feels like it’s burning, itching, cracking, and refusing to calm down, you naturally want relief fast. That’s exactly where wet wrap therapy can make a dramatic difference.
Wet wraps are one of the most effective short-term treatments dermatologists use for severe eczema flare-ups. They can soothe intense inflammation, lock in moisture more deeply than any cream alone can achieve, and help your skin absorb medication more effectively. Yet despite how helpful they are, many people have never been shown how to use them safely at home and incorrect technique can lead to problems.
In this guide, I’m going to walk you through everything you need to know. I’ll explain why wet wrap therapy works, when dermatologists actually recommend it, how to do it step-by-step, what to avoid, and how to know whether it’s right for you or your child. My goal is to give you clear, practical advice that you can start using with confidence today.
And if you ever feel unsure or want specialist input, it’s always worth speaking with a dermatologist especially if you’re dealing with frequent flare-ups. Many people I speak to end up seeking extra support through resources like the eczema clinic services available in London, including specialist centres such as the Eczema Clinic in London offered by the London Dermatology Centre, which you can explore here:
Now let’s get into it.
What Exactly Is Wet Wrap Therapy?
Wet wrap therapy involves applying a generous layer of emollient or sometimes a medicated cream prescribed by your dermatologist and then covering the area with a layer of warm, damp bandages or clothing. A dry layer goes on top of the damp layer to maintain warmth and prevent evaporation. You can think of wet wraps as a supercharged skin-soothing method. The moisture, warmth, and occlusion (that’s the “covering”) create the perfect environment for calming inflammation and helping the skin repair itself more quickly.
People often assume it’s an old-fashioned or complicated technique, but once you understand the steps, wet wrap therapy is incredibly straightforward and it can transform how you manage severe eczema episodes.
Why Wet Wrap Therapy Works: The Science in Simple Terms
I’d like to break this down in a way that makes sense if you don’t have a medical background. When you have eczema, your skin barrier is damaged. It becomes dry, inflamed, and incredibly sensitive. Moisture evaporates too quickly, irritants get in too easily, and the immune response in the skin becomes overactive.
Wet wraps tackle these issues in multiple ways:
1. They Lock in Moisture Intensely
The damp layer hydrates the skin directly, while the dry layer locks that hydration in place. This means your skin stays moisturised for hours instead of minutes.
2. They Reduce Itching Almost Immediately
When the moisture soothes the skin and the temperature drops slightly, the itch cycle is interrupted. People often report that wet wraps give them the first itch relief they’ve had in days.
3. They Help Medications Work Better
If your dermatologist has prescribed a topical steroid or another medicated cream, wet wraps help it absorb more evenly. The medication can penetrate deeper into the skin, making it more effective.
4. They Reduce Redness and Swelling
The cooling effect from the damp layer naturally calms inflammation. You may notice a reduction in redness after just one session.
5. They Create a Protective Barrier
By physically covering the skin, wet wraps prevent scratching something that can create infections, worsen the flare, or lead to scarring.
6. They Support Overnight Healing
Wet wrap therapy is often most effective when used overnight, giving your skin hours of uninterrupted moisture and protection.
This combination of effects is why dermatologists so often recommend wet wraps during the most severe flare-ups the kind where your regular moisturising routine just isn’t enough.
When Dermatologists Recommend Wet Wrap Therapy
You might be wondering whether wet wrap therapy is something you should use all the time, or only occasionally. Dermatologists tend to recommend it when eczema becomes:
- Severe
- Widespread
- Painful or very itchy
- Resistant to usual creams
- Interfering with sleep
- Causing distress, especially in children
If you’ve ever had a flare where your skin feels hot, tight, and inflamed or if you find yourself waking up scratching so intensely that you bleed wet wrap therapy can be a game-changer.
Here are some of the most common situations:
1. Severe eczema flare-ups
When your skin suddenly worsens and becomes very inflamed, wet wraps can calm the flare much faster.
2. Night-time itching
Many people struggle the most at night. Wet wraps protect the skin and stop unconscious scratching.
3. After applying topical corticosteroids
This is especially common in dermatology clinics. Wet wraps help the medication work more effectively during acute episodes.
4. For children who can’t stop scratching
Wet wrapping is widely used in paediatric dermatology because it offers both protection and relief.
5. When skin becomes thickened and scaly
The additional hydration helps soften rough patches, making future treatments more effective.
6. Before photographing or assessing eczema
Dermatologists sometimes use wet wraps to stabilise the skin before re-evaluation or patch testing.
If you’re seeing a dermatologist, they may even use wet wraps as part of your treatment plan during your appointment but most people do them at home.
How to Do Wet Wrap Therapy at Home: Step-by-Step Instructions
You don’t need anything expensive or complicated to do wet wrap therapy at home. Most people use items they already have. Let me walk you through the exact process so you can do it safely and effectively.
1: Gather Your Materials
You’ll need:
- A gentle, fragrance-free emollient (ointment, cream, or lotion)
- Any prescribed topical medication (if instructed by your dermatologist)
- Clean cotton bandages OR cotton clothing (pyjamas, socks, gloves)
- A bowl of warm water
- Towels
- A dry set of bandages or clothing for the outer layer
Important note: If you’re using creams rather than ointments, choose something that your skin tolerates well, without fragrance or alcohol.
2: Start With a Lukewarm Bath (Optional but Very Helpful)
A 10–15 minute soak hydrates the skin deeply and helps prepare it for the emollient. Make sure the water is warm, not hot hot water can aggravate eczema.
Gently pat your skin dry, leaving it slightly damp.
3: Apply Your Emollient Generously
This is the most important part.
Apply a thick layer of moisturiser more than you would normally use. Don’t rub it in fully; your skin should look shiny and feel slippery. If you’re using topical medication, apply that first, then layer the emollient over it.
Remember: Wet wrap therapy increases the absorption of topical steroids. Only use medicated creams under wraps if a dermatologist has told you to.
4: Prepare Your Wet Layer
Take your damp layer (bandages, cotton clothing, or specialised wraps) and soak them in warm water. Wring out until they’re damp but not dripping.
You want them moist, comfortable, and warm against the skin not overly wet.
5: Apply the Wet Layer to Your Skin
Wrap the damp bandages gently but securely around the affected areas. If you’re using clothing, pull the damp garments over the moisturised skin.
Make sure the fabric touches all areas of skin evenly.
6: Add the Dry Layer on Top
This layer helps maintain the moisture and keep the temperature just right.
If you’re wrapping limbs, use a dry bandage over the damp one. If you’re using clothing, put dry pyjamas or dry shirt/trousers over the damp clothing.
7: Relax and Let the Wraps Work
Leave the wraps on for:
- At least 1 hour, or
- Overnight, which is typically most effective
Children may only tolerate shorter sessions, and that’s perfectly fine even 1–2 hours can make a difference.
8: Remove the Wraps and Moisturise Again
When you take off the wraps, your skin should look calmer, less red, and more hydrated. Apply another layer of moisturiser to lock in the benefits.
Avoid harsh soaps, scrubbing, or activities that make you sweat immediately after the treatment.
How Often Should You Use Wet Wrap Therapy?
Most dermatologists recommend using wet wraps for short bursts only typically for:
- 2 to 3 days, or
- Up to 1 week for children, but only if instructed
Wet wrapping is not meant to be a long-term daily treatment. It’s a powerful, intensive therapy to use during the worst phases of eczema.
Using wet wraps too often or for too long may cause problems such as:
- Skin thinning (if steroids are used incorrectly under wraps)
- Skin infections
- Over-hydration leading to maceration
Always follow your dermatologist’s guidance if you are using medicated creams under wraps.
Benefits of Wet Wrap Therapy: Why It Works So Well
If you’ve never used wet wraps before, it can be hard to imagine that something so simple could be so effective. But once you experience the results, you’ll understand why dermatologists rely on this technique for severe cases.
Here are the benefits you can expect:
1. Rapid Itch Relief
Most people feel their itching reduce significantly within the first hour. It can be the first real relief after days of scratching.
2. Fewer Night-Time Disturbances
Wet wraps provide a protective barrier and calming effect that helps both adults and children sleep more peacefully.
3. Strong Moisture Boost
Your skin absorbs hydration far more effectively than from moisturiser alone.
4. Faster Healing of Cracked or Inflamed Skin
When inflammation decreases, the skin can focus on repairing itself.
5. Less Redness and Swelling
The cooling effect helps reduce the visible signs of a flare.
6. Better Absorption of Medications
This is particularly helpful when your eczema becomes stubborn or resistant.
7. Breaks the Itch–Scratch Cycle
Since you can’t scratch through the wraps, your skin finally gets the uninterrupted rest it needs.
8. Safe for Children with Severe Flares
Wet wrapping is a preferred treatment in paediatric clinics because it is gentle, non-invasive, and highly effective.
Potential Risks and Precautions: What You Must Know
Wet wrap therapy is safe when used correctly but because it enhances the absorption of creams and affects the skin barrier directly, it does come with precautions.
Here’s what you absolutely need to keep in mind:
1. Don’t Use Wet Wraps Daily Long-Term
This can lead to skin over-hydration and irritation.
2. Be Cautious with Steroid Creams
Wet wraps increase absorption. Only use steroids under wraps when a dermatologist explicitly advises it.
3. Watch for Infection
If your skin shows signs of infection such as honey-coloured crust, oozing, pus, or increased pain stop and seek medical advice.
4. Avoid Very Hot Water
Hot water can worsen eczema and make inflammation worse.
5. Don’t Use on Broken or Severely Weeping Skin Without Medical Advice
Wet wraps can sometimes irritate open wounds.
6. Don’t Wrap Too Tightly
The goal is gentle contact, not compression.
7. Use Clean Bandages and Clothing Only
Never reuse damp layers without washing them thoroughly.
Wet Wrap Therapy for Children: Special Tips
If you’re a parent, I know how distressing it can be to watch your child struggle with itching, irritation, and sleepless nights. Wet wrap therapy can be incredibly helpful for little ones, but there are a few extra tips to make the process smoother:
Use Soft Cotton Clothing:
Loose cotton pyjamas or baby vests work beautifully and are much easier than bandages.
Make It Part of Bedtime:
Many children tolerate wet wraps best when they’re already winding down.
Keep the Room Comfortable:
Even one hour can make a noticeable difference for children.
Explain What You’re Doing:
For older children, understanding the process makes them feel more secure.
Distraction Helps:
A bedtime story, calming music, or a cartoon can make the process easier for everyone.
Wet Wraps vs Dry Wraps: What’s the Difference?
Dry wrapping is similar to wet wrapping, but without the damp layer. You simply apply moisturiser or medication, then cover with a dry bandage or clothing.
Dry wrapping:
- Provides moderate occlusion
- Helps medications absorb
- Reduces scratching
- Is more comfortable for long-term daily use
Wet wrapping:
- Hydrates deeply
- Cools inflammation
- Rapidly reduces itching
- Enhances medication absorption much more
For severe flares, wet wraps are far more effective. For maintenance, dry wraps are often more sustainable.
Can You Use Wet Wrap Therapy With Steroid Creams?
Yes but only when your dermatologist tells you to.
Because wet wraps dramatically increase absorption, using steroids incorrectly can lead to:
- Skin thinning
- Changes in pigmentation
- Stretch marks
- Systemic absorption in rare cases
If you’re unsure, stick to moisturisers only. This still offers major benefits without the risks.
How to Maintain Results After Wet Wrap Therapy
Once your flare has calmed, your goal is to keep the skin barrier strong. Here’s what I personally recommend:
1. Moisturise at least twice daily
Think of your emollient as your daily defence.
2. Identify your triggers
Common ones include detergents, fragrances, sweat, heat, and stress.
3. Use gentle products only
Avoid anything with fragrance, alcohol, or harsh chemicals.
4. Take short, lukewarm showers
Long, hot showers strip moisture from the skin.
5. Apply moisturiser immediately after bathing
Within 3 minutes is ideal.
6. Treat small flares early
Don’t wait for them to become severe.
FAQs:
1. What is wet wrap therapy for eczema?
Wet wrap therapy is a short-term treatment for severe eczema flare-ups. It involves applying moisturiser or medicated creams, covering the area with a damp layer, and then adding a dry layer on top. This method locks in moisture, soothes inflammation, and enhances medication absorption. It can be done at home or under dermatologist guidance. Many patients find it particularly effective for overnight relief.
2. How does wet wrap therapy help with itching?
Wet wraps reduce itching by hydrating the skin and creating a protective barrier. The damp layer cools inflamed skin, interrupting the itch–scratch cycle. By preventing scratching, the skin gets a chance to repair itself. Most people notice relief within the first hour of use. It’s especially helpful for night-time itching.
3. Can children use wet wrap therapy safely?
Yes, wet wraps are widely used for children with severe eczema. Soft cotton clothing or pyjamas are often easier than bandages. Short sessions of 1–2 hours can be very effective, and older children can be involved in understanding the process. Always monitor for discomfort or signs of infection. Pediatric guidance ensures safe use.
4. How often should wet wrap therapy be used?
Wet wraps are intended for short-term use during severe flares. Most dermatologists recommend 2–3 consecutive days, up to a week for children if advised. Daily long-term use is not recommended. Overuse can cause skin thinning, infections, or over-hydration. Always follow your dermatologist’s instructions.
5. Can I use steroid creams under wet wraps?
Yes, but only under dermatologist guidance. Wet wraps increase the absorption of topical steroids, making them more effective but also increasing risk of side effects. Improper use can lead to skin thinning, stretch marks, or pigment changes. If unsure, use moisturiser alone for safety. Always follow professional instructions.
6. What materials do I need for wet wrap therapy at home?
You’ll need a fragrance-free emollient or prescribed cream, clean cotton bandages or clothing, a bowl of warm water, towels, and a dry layer for the outer covering. Bandages, pyjamas, or socks can all work as damp layers. Soft, breathable materials are best. Clean materials reduce infection risk.
7. How long should each wet wrap session last?
Sessions can last at least one hour or overnight for maximum benefit. Children may tolerate shorter periods, which can still improve symptoms. The dry layer helps maintain warmth and moisture. Remove wraps gently and reapply moisturiser afterward. Monitor comfort and skin condition throughout.
8. Are there any risks or precautions?
Wet wraps are safe when done correctly, but precautions are important. Avoid using on infected, weeping, or broken skin without medical advice. Don’t wrap too tightly, reuse damp layers, or use hot water. Watch for redness, pus, or pain, which require prompt medical attention. Proper use minimizes complications.
9. How do wet wraps compare to dry wraps?
Dry wraps involve a moisturiser or cream covered with a dry layer only. They provide moderate occlusion and help medication absorption but don’t hydrate or cool the skin like wet wraps. Wet wraps are faster and more effective for severe flares. Dry wraps are better for maintenance or daily use.
10. Can wet wrap therapy be combined with other treatments?
Yes, wet wraps work best as part of a broader eczema management plan. Emollients, topical steroids, calcineurin inhibitors, antihistamines, and phototherapy can complement wet wraps. Allergy testing and systemic medications may also be part of treatment. Combining therapies can improve flare control.
Final Thoughts: Achieving Relief and Support with Wet Wrap Therapy
If you’re struggling with a severe eczema flare, wet wrap therapy can feel like a breath of relief sometimes within the very first hour. I’ve spoken with so many people who wish they’d discovered this treatment earlier because it’s simple, powerful, and grounded in decades of dermatology practice.
By understanding when to use wet wraps, how to apply them safely, and how to maintain your results afterwards, you give your skin its best chance to calm down, repair itself, and regain balance. You don’t need expensive tools or complicated routines just moisture, warmth, softness, and a little patience.
If you ever feel unsure or if your flares keep returning, don’t hesitate to reach out to a dermatologist. A personalised plan can transform your long-term comfort and confidence, and services like the Eczema Clinic in London are designed to help you get the right support when you need it most. If you’re considering Eczema Clinic in London, you can also get in touch with us at the London Dermatology Centre for expert advice and care.
Reference:
1. Kowalska, M.K., et al. (2024) ‘Applied Research on Atopic Dermatitis with Special Emphasis on the Role of Emollients in This Disorder’, Applied Sciences, 14(18), 8315. https://www.mdpi.com/2076-3417/14/18/8315
2. Hindley, D., Galloway, G., Murray, J. & Gardener, L. (2005) ‘A randomised study of “wet wraps” versus conventional treatment for atopic eczema’, Archives of Disease in Childhood, 91(2), pp. 164–168. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2082699/
3. The role of wet wrap therapy in skin disorders – a literature review (2015) by Andersen, R.M., Thyssen, J.P., Maibach, H.I. in Acta Dermato-Venereologica. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25940919/
4. Wet‑wrap therapy in children with moderate to severe atopic dermatitis in a multidisciplinary treatment programme” (2014) cohort study of 72 children showing significant improvement in SCORAD scores with wet wrap therapy. Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology.: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25017527/
5. Efficacy and safety of wet‑wrap dressings as an intervention treatment in children with severe and/or refractory atopic dermatitis: a critical review of the literature” (2006) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16536797