Managing urinary incontinence requires extra care, especially when it comes to protecting your skin from irritation and damage. Ongoing exposure to moisture, combined with friction from clothing or incontinence products, can increase the risk of rashes, infections, and other skin-related issues. However, with the right routine, you can keep your skin healthy and resilient. Here, we'll review some key information surrounding skin care and incontinence to help you prevent rashes and irritation.
Skin Conditions Related to Incontinence
Sometimes, it's challenging to prevent skin problems caused by urinary incontinence. While you may notice mild irritation from here to there, some skin problems can be a bit more aggressive than a pesky rash. A few conditions may even require medical assistance. One of the most common is incontinence-associated dermatitis (IAD).
Incontinence-Associated Dermatitis (IAD)
Incontinence-associated dermatitis is also commonly referred to as diaper rash or perineal dermatitis. It's caused by a combination of moisture and exposure to the chemicals in urine and/or feces. Skin issues like incontinence-associated dermatitis are quite common in people with UI, but some people are at a higher risk. The risk factors for developing IAD include:
- Aggressively cleaning the skin
- Using non-breathable bed protection
- Cleaning with the wrong soap
- Exposure to fecal matter
- Poor genital skin cleaning
- Poor personal hygiene
- Not changing incontinence products
If you have trouble maintaining proper hygiene, it's important to talk to your doctor to find a solution. If you or a loved one cannot keep the skin dry, a nurse or caregiver can help you reduce the risk of damage caused by incontinence.
Other Potential Skin Problems to Know
While IAD is quite common, people who experience incontinence may also be at an increased risk for other skin problems. It's important to talk to your doctor if you experience any signs of an issue, as UI may also lead to:
- Fungal infections
- Bacterial infections
- Vaginal infections in women
- Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
- Skin maceration (the breakdown of skin due to prolonged exposure to moisture)
If you’re experiencing any skin-related issues, see your doctor for diagnostics.
7 Tips for Incontinence Skin Care
Incontinence-related skin conditions can be frustrating, but there are things you can do to prevent them. Taking the time to cleanse and protect your skin daily can help keep issues at bay. To help keep your skin healthy, consider the following incontinence skin care tips.
1. Manage Incontinence Properly
Managing your UI is one of the most important parts of incontinence skin care. If you haven't already, talk to your doctor to better understand your type of incontinence and some treatment options. Your doctor may recommend various lifestyle changes to help you reduce the severity of symptoms or more invasive options like nerve stimulation and surgery. Your doctor can help provide recommendations based on your circumstances, so don't hesitate to schedule an appointment today.
2. Maintain Skin Cleanliness With Cleansers
Even with ongoing management, incontinence can still occur. That's why using a skin cleanser is so important. While incontinence-specific products are available, you can also use mild soap and water. Just make sure that the soap is fragrance-free and specific to incontinence care to avoid irritation and worsening symptoms of rashes or broken skin.
When cleansing, try not to scrub the area. Gently apply a clean washcloth to the area. If it feels like you're breaking any scabs or rashes open, gently wipe back and forth against the area instead of scrubbing vigorously. Delicate skin plagued by dryness or irritation can be sensitive, so take your time.
3. Keep the Skin Dry
Once you've cleaned the area, it's important to allow it to dry fully before you apply another product. Long-term exposure to moisture, even if it's clean, can proliferate skin problems and cause a breeding ground for infection. Instead, give the area time to dry before your next step. If you experience a lot of moisture in the area, you can also use a special skin powder with antifungal properties before applying creams and ointments. Do not use baby powder for this area, as it doesn't work in the same way.
4. Use Special Skin Care Products
Using the right products can make a significant difference in protecting and maintaining skin health. Here are a few types of products to consider:
- Moisturizing Creams and Lotions — Incontinence can lead to dry and irritated skin. Applying a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer can help restore hydration and reduce dryness, making your skin less prone to cracking and irritation.
- Barrier Cream or Ointment — These products create a protective layer to help keep the skin safe from irritants like urine or stool. Look for creams or ointments specifically designed for incontinence care to maximize protection and healing.
- Film-Forming Skin Protectants — These form a protective barrier on your skin, offering longer-lasting protection against moisture and irritants. They're especially helpful for people with sensitive or easily irritated skin.
- Antibacterial or Antifungal Creams — If you're dealing with minor infections or suspect a fungal issue due to excess moisture, consult your doctor about incorporating these creams into your routine. They can help reduce inflammation and promote faster healing.
If you're not sure which skin-related incontinence supplies are right for you, ask your doctor for more recommendations.
5. Know the Signs of Skin Damage
Although mild incontinence doesn't always lead to skin irritation, extended contact with urine can break down the skin barrier and cause various issues. This is due to the natural acidic properties found in urine. The longer the exposure to urine, the more likely there are to be problems. However, skin breakdown can occur in a variety of ways. Recognizing early signs of skin damage is essential for addressing issues before they worsen. Some of the most common signs of skin damage include the following:
- Redness
- Itching
- Burning
- Discomfort
- General rashes
- Sores
- Open wounds
- Ulcers
- Foul odor
- Discoloration
These symptoms can also indicate other issues, so it's important to see your doctor at the first sign of any problem. The earlier you're treated, the less likely more serious issues are to develop.
6. Use the Right Incontinence Products
Choosing the right incontinence products is another vital step in maintaining healthy skin and preventing irritation or infections. Almost all incontinence products, including pads, briefs, and protective underwear, are designed for single use to ensure maximum absorbency and hygiene. Reusing these items compromises their ability to absorb moisture effectively, leaving the skin exposed to wetness, bacteria, and irritants. Dispose of used products promptly to maintain a clean environment and prioritize skin health.
It's also recommended that you change incontinence products often, even if you don't feel any leakage. Some products can still trap moisture, creating an environment where bacteria and fungi thrive. Change products immediately after they become soiled or every three to four hours. If you need overnight protection, choose specialized products designed for overnight wear.
Finally, proper fit is essential to skincare, as loose-fitting products can cause friction that further irritates the skin. Before ordering products, make sure you read the specifications and take measurements. Try some samples to find the best option for your needs.
7. Change Any Soiled Clothes as Soon as Possible
Wearing soiled clothes, even for short periods, can lead to irritation and infections. Always replace soiled garments quickly and ensure the skin is cleaned and dried before putting on fresh clothing. To help make this possible, have an extra outfit at work, in the car, or your bag for convenience. Soft, breathable fabrics can also help reduce friction and protect the skin over time.
A Note to Caregivers
Those caring for a loved one with incontinence or professional caregivers providing a service should take extra precautions to help encourage healthy skin. While good skin care is essential, it's also important to regularly inspect the area for any signs of damage. If you notice any signs of an infection or wounds that aren't healing, seek medical attention for the appropriate treatment.
To help you maintain optimal skin health, Byram Healthcare carries several high-quality incontinence products to help manage symptoms and improve your quality of life. Contact us today to learn more about how we help empower our customers with the knowledge and resources they need to manage their health effectively.
