Weeping blisters and painful open skin wounds can be among the most challenging symptoms of eczema. Finding effective relief is essential to maintaining a good quality of life. Hydrocolloid bandages are a potential remedy for these symptoms.

Hydrocolloid bandages are water-resistant adhesive dressings that keep wounds moist and help the healing process. They’re used for a variety of skin conditions, including blisters and acne.

Here’s a look at how hydrocolloid bandages work, including their potential benefits for eczema. In addition, we explore their possible risks, some precautions to keep in mind, and steps to take if you’re interested in trying these products.

What Are Hydrocolloid Bandages?

Hydrocolloid bandages are a type of wound dressing. They’re made of a gel-like material containing hydrocolloid agents. When exposed to moisture, such as pus or blood, this material forms a gel. The gel maintains a moist environment on the wound while protecting it from further trauma.

These bandages were first designed to treat open or oozing wounds, such as ulcers, sores, and burns. More recently, these dressings have become popular in the skin care world as a way to manage a variety of skin conditions.

How Do Hydrocolloid Bandages Work?

When applied to the skin, the bandages lock in moisture from the wound or surrounding skin. This helps create a moist healing environment. The moist environment supports the body’s natural healing process, prevents scabbing, and reduces the chance of scarring.

Like all bandages, these dressings protect the skin from outside irritants, such as bacteria and allergens. These irritants can worsen eczema symptoms and infect wounds.

Ingredients in Hydrocolloid Bandages

The materials in hydrocolloid bandages can vary slightly based on the brand. In general, the dressings contain:

• Hydrocolloid agents (such as gelatin or pectin), which absorb moisture and promote wound healing
• An adhesive border to secure the bandage in place on the skin
• An outer layer that protects the skin from external elements

Using Hydrocolloid Bandages

Follow the instructions provided with the bandages. Before starting, make sure your skin is clean, dry, and free of any creams and lotions. Talk to your dermatology provider about how to use these bandages.

In most cases, the application process goes as follows:

1. Wash your hands and put gloves on.
2. Clean the area with saline (salt water) or another wound cleaner.
3. Pat the area dry with gauze.
4. Apply an eczema-safe moisturizer to the skin.
5. Choose a bandage that is a bit larger than your wound.
6. Hold the hydrocolloid dressing between your hands to warm it up.
7. Remove the dressing from its packaging and remove the backing.
8. Fold the dressing in half. Apply the bandage, starting from the center and smoothing it outward.
9. Remove waste and wash your hands.

Hydrocolloid bandages usually last three to seven days. If the edges of a dressing start to peel off, however, you should remove it and apply a new one.

Hydrocolloid Bandages and Eczema

Hydrocolloid bandages for eczema may be helpful for several reasons, including:

• Moisture retention — Eczema-prone skin tends to be dry and easily irritated. The moist environment created by these bandages can help hydrate and soothe the skin, reducing inflammation and itching.
• Protection — The bandages act as a physical barrier, shielding you from irritants and skin infections. Having a bandage will also prevent you from scratching or rubbing an itchy rash, which can disrupt the healing process.
• Enhanced healing — By promoting a moist healing environment, hydrocolloid bandages can speed up the healing process, leading to faster recovery and less scarring.

There are several brands of hydrocolloid dressings. Options include extra-thin varieties such as Granuflex/DuoDerm. There are many brands of hydrocolloid bandages that can work for skin with eczema. Ask your dermatologist which bandage type would be best for you.

What’s the Research on Hydrocolloid Bandages for Eczema?

Research is limited as to whether these types of bandages can help treat eczema.

One small study looked at the effectiveness of DuoDerm Extra Thin hydrocolloid dressing face masks for treating atopic dermatitis — the most common form of eczema — in three children. Researchers found that the masks lasted from one to four days. All of the children’s facial eczema symptoms disappeared and didn’t return for more than three months after.

Evidence remains sparse on the use of these bandages for eczema, but one recent review noted the importance of exercising caution in certain people. In particular, those with skin sensitivity to the bandage materials, those with thin or sensitive skin, and those who are prone to infections should use caution when using these dressings. This warning comes in response to several people who developed contact dermatitis (rash caused by an allergy or irritation) after using hydrocolloid bandages.

More research is needed on hydrocolloid dressings to determine whether they’re an effective treatment for eczema.

Types of Eczema That May Benefit From Hydrocolloid Bandages

Hydrocolloid bandages may be particularly beneficial for two types of eczema.

The first is dyshidrotic eczema. This type of eczema often presents with blisters on the hands and feet. Keeping hand-eczema wounds covered with clothing can be difficult, but hydrocolloid bandages can help protect them from the elements. Hydrocolloid bandages can also help protect and soothe the affected areas, providing hydration and supporting healing.

The second type is weeping eczema, which causes oozing or weeping blisters. These can benefit from the absorbent properties of hydrocolloid bandages, preventing further irritation and promoting recovery.

Risks and Precautions When Using Hydrocolloid Bandages

You may have wondered when not to use hydrocolloid bandages. While hydrocolloid bandages are generally safe and have few side effects, there are some risks to consider.

Some people may be sensitive to the adhesive in hydrocolloid bandages, which can lead to skin irritation or an allergic reaction. If you know you’re allergic to any of the ingredients in a hydrocolloid patch, you should not use them. If you’re unsure, you could try a patch test before applying the bandage to a wound or larger area of skin.

To perform a patch test, apply a small bandage to an area of your skin and leave it there for 48 hours (two days). Then, have a doctor inspect the area three or four days later to determine if you had an allergic reaction.

If you do develop signs of an allergic reaction, such as itchy skin, a rash, or hives, don’t use the hydrocolloid bandages. Seek medical attention immediately if you develop signs of anaphylaxis (severe allergic reaction), such as breathing difficulties or swelling of the eyes and/or throat.

Second, if the bandage becomes dirty or dislodged, there’s a risk of infection. Ensure your skin is clean and dry before application. Change the bandage as often as is recommended on the package. You should not use a hydrocolloid bandage on skin that is actively infected, as it can trap bacteria, prevent drainage, and worsen the infection.

Though hydrocolloid bandages can provide relief and support healing, they’re not a substitute for medical treatment. Consult your doctor to create an eczema treatment plan.

Next Steps for Trying Hydrocolloid Bandages

If you’re interested in using hydrocolloid bandages for your eczema, consider the following steps.

Consult a Healthcare Professional

Before trying any new treatment, including hydrocolloid bandages, talk to your dermatologist or healthcare provider. They can assess your specific symptoms and provide personalized recommendations.

Monitor Your Progress

Keep track of how the bandages affect your eczema. If you notice any negative reactions or worsening symptoms, stop using hydrocolloid bandages and speak with your doctor.

Hydrocolloid bandages can be a valuable tool to add to your eczema care plan, particularly if you develop blisters or open wounds, but it’s important to use them cautiously. Consult with your dermatologist before starting them.

With the right approach and medical guidance, hydrocolloid bandages may offer much-needed relief and support for your eczema symptoms.

Talk With Others Who Understand

MyEczemaTeam is the social network for people with eczema and their loved ones. On MyEczemaTeam, members come together to ask questions, give advice, and share their stories with others who understand life with eczema.

Have you tried hydrocolloid bandages to manage your eczema flare-ups? How did they affect your eczema symptoms? Share your experience in the comments below, or start a conversation by posting on your Activities page.