What Is Wet Wrapping for Eczema?
Wet wrapping eczema is a dermatologist-approved technique used to soothe inflamed, itchy skin during a flare. It involves applying a thick layer of moisturizer or eczema cream, covering it with a damp layer of fabric, and then sealing it with a dry layer on top.
This method locks in moisture, cools the skin, and allows healing products to work more effectively overnight. Parents and adults alike use wet wraps during intense flares for fast itch relief and barrier repair.
Why Wet Wraps Work
Wet wraps are powerful because they:
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Hydrate deeply — the damp fabric keeps skin moist, helping repair the skin barrier.
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Reduce itching and inflammation — cooling moisture soothes the “itch–scratch” cycle.
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Enhance product absorption — helps your chosen eczema balm or cream penetrate the skin more effectively.
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Create a protective barrier — keeping little hands from scratching, especially at night.
Whether you’re using prescription steroids or following an all-natural eczema routine, wet wraps make your treatments work harder and faster.
How to Wet Wrap Eczema (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Prep the Skin
After a lukewarm bath or shower, gently pat skin dry—leaving it slightly damp.
Step 2: Apply a Thick Moisturizer
Use a generous layer of your eczema cream or natural ointment like Bristol Butter. Its emu oil, shea butter, and chamomile help calm inflammation while sealing in hydration.
Step 3: Add the Wet Layer
Use a soft, breathable fabric—ideally TENCEL™ Modal, which is lightweight, antimicrobial, and soothing against sensitive skin. Dampen it with warm water and wring out excess moisture.
Step 4: Add the Dry Layer
Pull on a dry pair of Bristol Butter Overnight Skin Repair Pajamas, made from TENCEL™ Modal, designed specifically for eczema-prone skin. These pajamas help regulate temperature, prevent scratching, and hold in moisture overnight.
Step 5: Rest and Heal Overnight
Leave the wet wraps on for several hours or overnight. When you wake, gently remove and reapply moisturizer to lock in the healing benefits.
Why TENCEL™ Modal Is the Best Fabric for Wet Wrapping
Traditional cotton can become stiff, cold, or harbor bacteria during overnight wet wraps. TENCEL™ Modal, used in our Bristol Butter Eczema Pajamas, offers key advantages:
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Soft as silk, gentle on sensitive skin
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Moisture-wicking and breathable, preventing overheating
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Antibacterial properties help reduce infection risk
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Hypoallergenic and eco-friendly — ideal for eczema and contact dermatitis
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Stretches comfortably without restricting movement overnight
The result? Skin that stays cool, calm, and hydrated while you sleep.
Combining Wet Wraps with Natural Healing
Wet wrapping isn’t just for those using prescription steroids. It also amplifies results when you’re taking an all-natural approach to eczema care.
With Steroids:
Wet wraps help enhance absorption of topical medications and speed up flare recovery under medical supervision.
Without Steroids:
When paired with Bristol Butter, wet wraps create a natural, healing environment—soothing inflammation and sealing in hydration without harsh ingredients, fragrances, or lanolin.
The Bristol Butter Moisture Sandwich
For long-term eczema management, pair wet wraps with the Bristol Butter Moisture Sandwich Method:
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Hydrate – Start with an aloe-based spray or humectant layer.
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Seal – Apply Bristol Butter Balm to lock in moisture.
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Protect – Slip into Bristol Butter Overnight Pajamas to lock it all in.
This three-step system mimics wet wrapping but is perfect for nightly use—helping skin heal while your child sleeps.
Final Thoughts
Wet wrapping is one of the most effective ways to calm eczema flares quickly. Whether you’re using steroid creams or going the all-natural route, combining this method with Bristol Butter Balm and our TENCEL™ Modal Overnight Pajamas provides a safe, soothing path to relief.
Healing while you sleep isn’t just possible—it’s the Bristol Butter way.
