Drawing power of wet/dry heat?

Factual Questions
1

I am working on a zit worthy of the SDMB (actually, it’s an ingrown hair). I went to see my doctor about it yesterday, and she recommended that I put a hot compress on it at least three times a day. By “hot compress” she meant a washcloth soaked in hot water, then squeezed out.

Hot compresses are wet and messy. Can I use a heating pad instead, or is the “wet” part of the deal?

2

I would guess the wet helps soften the skin.

3

Pictures? :smiley:

Wet heat is the preferred heat. It helps soften the skin and sebum.

4

The folkloric remedy is a spud. Tape a slice of potato on it overnight.