What additional layers are recommended between a hot pack and the skin?

Using 6-8 layers between a hot pack and the skin is recommended to ensure thermal safety and comfort. This range provides adequate insulation to prevent burns or excessive heat exposure to the skin while still allowing the therapeutic benefits of the hot pack to penetrate.

The concept of layering is crucial in thermal therapy, as it acts as a buffer. Too few layers may result in direct contact with the heat source, which can cause skin irritation or burns. Ideally, the layers consist of a combination of cloth, towels, or commercial products specifically designed for this purpose.

Having too many layers, on the other hand, may reduce the efficacy of heat transfer, making the treatment less effective. Thus, balancing the number of layers is essential to achieve an optimal thermal effect without compromising safety, which is why 6-8 layers is considered ideal in practice.