Pressure garments are individually made to measure and are used in the management of scars. The garment provides a compression therapy on areas of raised (hypertrophic) scarring. The pressure garment will help to flatten scars and help to reduce the redness (excess blood supply) of the scar. This pressure therapy will aid the natural scar maturation process. It should only be used on scar tissue and not on open wounds. A small number of people have problems with pressure garments. If the garment does not fit correctly, it may feel too uncomfortable to wear. You may also have areas of skin rubbing or wound breakdown. If this occurs, it is best to stop using the garment and contact a Burns Service therapist or Burns professional where you have been receiving treatment or your local burns service. An alternative form of pressure therapy such as a splint or tubular compression bandages may be used. These work using a similar mechanism of pressure on the scar. Burn Therapists are able to explain specific treatments to you.
To achieve the best results from a pressure garment, it should be worn 23 out of 24 hours and should only be removed for washing, creaming and massaging the affected area(s).
In the NHS, you will usually be given two pressure garments: one to wash and one to wear. It is recommended the garment is washed in washing up liquid and any solution that contains bleach e.g. washing powders, should not be used. It should not be put to dry on radiators, in tumble dryers or any direct heat as this destroys the Lycra in the garment. It should be hung on a hanger and left to dry naturally. Washing instructions will usually be given with every garment you receive.
If you choose to receive treatment through a therapist in the private sector, the therapist may order your pressure garment from a private company such as Jobskin. Jobskin pressure garments
