Skin Care World

We’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions about the management of eczema and other dry skin conditions. If you have a question we’ve not included here, you can Ask the Expert. Questions about Epaderm, Tubifast bandages and Tubifast Garments can be found in the Pharmacy.

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Can wet wrapping be done during the day?

Previously, when full body wet wrapping was undertaken with bandages and ties, it was often uncomfortable and, for children, not socially acceptable. However, now that Tubifast Garments are available, they are used more and more during the daytime, which allows the child and parent to get the condition under control much quicker.

At what stage should wet wraps be applied?

Wet wraps have been developed to help break the itch-scratch cycle and they should be applied after the child has been bathed. Wet wraps used to be a preferred treatment for the more severe end of the eczema scale. However, both wet and dry wrapping are now used as preventative measures to ensure no flare-ups. Never wet wrap infected eczema.

The child has an initial itching and there is blood on the bandages.

When the bandages are pulled off, they may bring scabs off, too.
This can be helped by cutting the ties and soaking the bandages off in the bath, then bathing as usual.
Do not use the Tubifast Garments on infected skin and consult your child’s doctor or nurse if these symptoms persist.

The Tubifast Garments dry out and the child gets very itchy.

This is more common in summer. It can be overcome by applying wet wraps twice daily, or by using a plant water spray, filled with warm water, and spraying the garments when they dry out. A wet flannel can also be used to dampen them.

The child feels cold and shivery after the bandages are applied.

This is very uncommon in children of six years and under. In older children, the problem can be helped by:
· Using hotter water for the bandages.
· Carrying out the process earlier, so that the child is not so wet when going to bed.
· Dressing the child in warm, thick clothing, after wet wrapping.
· Making sure the room where wet wrapping takes place is warm enough.
· Ensuring that the bandages are not too wet.
· Making sure that bandages fit snugly.
Please consult your child’s doctor if these symptoms persist.