Wet wrap therapy for eczema on the face

A damp, soft layer placed over moisturised skin helps hold water against the surface and may calm the itch–scratch cycle. The face is more sensitive than many body areas, and fabric near the eyes, nose, and mouth can irritate or interfere with breathing. A facial flare can also resemble contact dermatitis, infection, or another condition, so the reason for the rash matters. Learn more about [Atopic Dermatitis](/conditions/atopic-dermatitis/) and [Wet Wrap Therapy](/treatments/medical-dermatology/wet-wrap-therapy/).

Use only products recommended for your skin, apply moisturiser as directed, and use clean, comfortably damp material rather than wet fabric that drips. Keep the eyes, nostrils, and lips uncovered. Do not tightly bandage the face, sleep in a facial wrap unless specifically instructed, or place steroid medicine under occlusion without a prescriber’s directions. Stop if burning, swelling, worsening redness, or breathing discomfort occurs.

Arrange prompt medical advice for increasing warmth, tenderness, swelling, pus, spreading crusts, fever, or sores near the eye. Seek urgent help for facial swelling with trouble breathing, eye pain, vision change, or rapidly worsening symptoms. A clinician can check whether infection is present and choose a treatment suitable for facial skin.

Ask which moisturiser and fabric are appropriate, whether your prescribed medicine should be used before wrapping, how long to leave the wrap on, and what changes should prompt a review.