Do I need to bandage or cover the treated area between sessions?

In most cases, no bandage is required between sessions. Since IG-SRT doesn’t create an open wound, the area can be left open to air. In fact, keeping it open (and moisturized, with any prescribed cream) often helps it heal better. We typically only bandage if there’s a specific reason – for example, if the skin has become very raw and weeping toward the end of treatment, we might cover it with a non-stick dressing to protect it and promote comfort. Or if the location is one that rubs under clothing, a light protective gauze can help. But these are situational. For the majority of the treatment course, patients do not need to wear any bandage – they just apply their creams and leave it alone. At night, you also don’t need a bandage unless instructed; some people choose to cover it at night if it’s oozing a bit to avoid staining linens, but that’s optional. If you do cover it, we’d advise using a breathable, non-adhesive dressing (and avoid strong tape on irritated skin). But again, no routine bandaging is necessary like it would be after surgery. Air exposure is fine and the skin will just have maybe a pink or peeling appearance but intact. Letting it breathe can be beneficial. Of course, if your daily activities put the area at risk of getting dirty (e.g., you work in dust or dirt), a loose covering during those times could be prudent. We’ll guide you if and when any dressing is needed. By and large, patients go around with the area uncovered between treatments.