What should you know about second skin compression garments?

These garments fit closely around an affected arm, leg, chest or other body area. Their pressure can support the movement of lymph fluid through available drainage pathways and may make heaviness or tightness easier to manage. They are not a cure for the cause of swelling, and the correct garment depends on the body area, shape, skin condition and amount of swelling.

A garment may be used alongside movement, skin care, exercise and lymphoedema therapy. A specialist should assess the fit rather than relying on a generic size, particularly when swelling changes during the day or after treatment.

Have the garment measured and fitted by a trained professional. Follow instructions about when to put it on, how long to wear it and how to wash it. Check your skin each time for rubbing, blisters, colour change or new pressure marks. Put it on smoothly, without folded edges or tight bands, and replace it when the fabric loses its support.

Tell the clinician if the garment feels painful, causes numbness or makes your fingers or toes cold. Do not cut, alter or share it without advice. Pair its use with the agreed swelling plan, including gentle activity and moisturising intact skin.

Remove the garment and seek prompt advice if you develop severe pain, marked numbness, unusual coldness, blue or pale skin, sudden swelling, or a new area of redness and heat. Fever, a weeping skin area or rapidly increasing swelling also needs medical assessment rather than tighter compression.

Is compression suitable for my circulation and skin? Which garment style and pressure should I use? How should I put it on and clean it? What changes mean I should stop wearing it? Should I combine it with lymphoedema therapy, exercise or other measures?