Prevent Incontinence-Related Skin Irritation

If your loved one has incontinence, their skin is more prone to irritation, especially if they're older or have limited mobility. That’s why gentle but effective skincare is key. Exposure to urine and stool can lead to issues like incontinence-associated dermatitis (IAD), so keeping the skin clean and protected really matters. When you include intimate skincare as part of daily care, it helps maintain comfort, prevents infections, and supports a better quality of life overall.

IAD is a skin condition that happens when the skin’s natural protective barrier is damaged.¹ This can make the skin red, sore, and uncomfortable.¹

Unlike things like eczema or fungal rashes, this isn’t about allergies or infections, it’s about too much moisture causing irritation.¹ But with the right care, it can be managed.

IAD tends to affect older adults, people who aren’t very mobile,¹ or anyone using incontinence products regularly. If you're caring for someone, you might be the first to notice changes like redness or inflammation. Catching these signs early makes a huge difference, so trust your instincts and check the skin often.

There’s a bit of a mix going on here: too much moisture from urine or stool, not cleaning the area properly (or cleaning too much), rubbing or friction, and even using products that are too rich or heavy.¹ Bacteria and changes in skin pH can also tip things in the wrong direction.

Prevention is all about simple, consistent care. If you’re a caregiver, here’s a go-to checklist to keep in your back pocket:

• Maintain good hygiene. Always clean gently and regularly (no scrubbing!) with soft, non-abrasive cloths¹
• Use pH-balanced cleansers made for delicate skin¹
• Apply a protective barrier cream after each clean-up¹
• Choose breathable, high absorbency products¹
• Change products as soon as they’re soiled
• Keep the skin dry and check it often

Remember that you’re already doing a great job, and every little extra step counts.

If you catch it early, treating IAD at home is doable. Gently clean the area, apply a soothing moisturizing cream (look for hydrogel or petroleum-based products), and keep an eye on the skin so you can catch any changes early.¹ Avoid perfumed or harsh products. If things aren’t improving in a few days, don’t wait and check in with a doctor.

Bedsores, also called pressure ulcers, are different.¹ They show up when someone stays in one position too long, usually on bony areas like the tailbone or heels. Unlike IAD, they’re caused by pressure, not moisture, and can get pretty serious if left untreated. If you're not sure what you're seeing, it’s always okay to ask for help.

Here’s what helps keep bedsores at bay:

• Reposition your loved one often (every 2 hours is a good rule of thumb)
• Use cushions or pressure-relief mattresses
• Check the skin daily, especially around bony spots
• Keep the skin clean and dry
• Make sure they’re getting enough fluids and protein

Need product support? Explore our full range of caregiver incontinence products.

Bedsores can range from mild to severe, so treatment depends on what stage they’re at. For early-stage sores, gentle cleaning and protective dressings can help. But if the skin is broken or doesn’t seem to be healing, it’s best to get help from a healthcare professional.

What are the stages of IAD?

IAD (Incontinence-Associated Dermatitis) doesn’t usually show up all at once. It tends to build up in stages:

• Mild: You might notice some burning and itching. It’s a bit uncomfortable but manageable.¹
• Moderate: It gets more painful, but the skin remains unbroken.²
• Severe: At this point, the skin can break open, increasing the risk of infection.² Time to call a healthcare professional if it’s at this stage.

Catching it early makes a big difference!

What products help manage or treat IAD?

The right products can go a long way in keeping skin healthy and comfortable. Here are a few caregiver go-tos:

• Moisturizing creams (look for ones that are hydrogel or petroleum-based)¹
• No-rinse cleansers that are gentle on sensitive skin
• Super absorbent briefs for keeping skin dry¹
• Breathable pads and underpads to reduce moisture buildup
• Skin repair creams with calming ingredients like aloe or calendula

1. TENA global research on attitudes and awareness to family caregiving in the general population. July 2022 Poland, Canada, France, UK, USA. Each country Interviewed over 1,000 men and women (18+).