Living with incontinence can be challenging, and one of the most common issues related to incontinence is skin irritation - also known as Incontinence Associated Dermatitis (IAD). Constant exposure to moisture, friction, and bacteria can cause the skin to break down, leading to redness, rashes, and even infections.
With the right care, you can protect your skin, stay comfortable, and feel confident every day.
In this article, we will talk about why skin irritation happens with incontinence, how to prevent it, and how to care for the skin irritation when it occurs.
Why Does Incontinence Cause Skin Irritation?
When skin is exposed to urine or faeces for extended periods of time, it can become moist, fragile, and vulnerable. Moisture weakens the skin’s natural barrier, while bacteria and waste products can inflame and damage the skin.
Common types of skin issues caused by incontinence include:
Incontinence-Associated Dermatitis (IAD): redness, tenderness, and inflammation in areas exposed to moisture
Skin infections: fungal or bacterial infections that thrive in warm, moist environments
Pressure sores: in cases where skin stays damp and is exposed to friction
How to Prevent Skin Irritation
Preventing skin irritation starts with a good daily routine. Taking a few simple steps can make a big difference in keeping your skin healthy, comfortable, and protected.
1. Keep the skin clean and dry
Cleaning the skin regularly is one of the most important steps. After every episode of incontinence, gently wipe the area to remove any urine or faeces. It’s best to use alcohol-free, ph-balanced body wipes or wash wipes that won’t dry out or irritate the skin.
After cleansing, pat the skin dry, don’t rub. You can also use a soft towel or allow the area to air dry before applying any creams or changing products.
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2. Use a protective barrier cream
Barrier creams are specially designed to act like a second skin. They create a protective shield against skin irritation, protecting against friction, and soothing irritated areas.
Apply a layer of barrier cream to clean, dry skin after every change. Focus on risk and more affected areas. This will help to prevent redness, soreness, and breakdown of the skin.
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3. Choose gentle cleansing products
Many regular soaps and wipes contain alcohol, perfumes, or harsh chemicals that can dry out or damage sensitive skin.
Look for products that are fragrance-free, alcohol-free, and specially formulated for delicate skin. Gentle wash wipes or cleansers made for incontinence care are the safest option to avoid further irritation.
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4. Change continence products regularly
Leaving wet pads or clothing on for too long keeps the skin exposed to moisture and bacteria. Changing pads, briefs, or other continence products frequently — even before they feel completely full — can help keep skin healthier.
Choosing the right product for your needs, whether it's high-absorbency briefs or specialty pads , also reduces the amount of time skin stays wet.
5. Wear Breathable Clothing and Products
Tight clothing can trap moisture against the skin, making irritation worse. Choose loose-fitting clothes and breathable continence products to let air circulate and help keep skin dry.
Look for products that wick moisture away from the skin and clothing made from natural fibres like cotton, where possible.
6. Check the Skin Daily
Catching early signs of irritation, like redness, soreness, or tiny breaks in the skin, can prevent bigger problems later.
Do a quick daily skin check, especially in areas that are often wet or in contact with pads or clothing. If you notice any changes, adjust your care routine or seek advice from a healthcare professional.
What to Do When Skin Irritation Happens
Even with the best care, skin irritation can sometimes still happen. If you notice redness, soreness, or small rashes, taking action early can stop it from becoming more serious.
1. Clean the Skin GentlyApply a Barrier Cream
Use warm water and a soft cloth or gentle, fragrance-free wipes to clean the area. Avoid scrubbing or rubbing, which can make irritation worse.
Pat the skin dry carefully, or allow it to air dry if possible.
2. Apply a Barrier Cream
After cleaning and drying, apply a thick, soothing barrier cream to the irritated area. This will protect the skin from further moisture damage and help it heal faster.
Reapply the cream with every change to maintain protection throughout the day.
3. Reduce Further Moisture Exposure
Try to change continence products more often to limit how long the skin stays wet. Using highly absorbent pads or briefs designed for sensitive skin can also help keep the area drier for longer.
4. Give the Skin Time to Breathe
Where possible, allow the affected skin to be exposed to fresh air for short periods throughout the day. Fresh air helps dry out the skin naturally and promotes healing.
Lying on a clean towel or protective bed pads without clothing or pads (for short times) can help the skin recover.
5. Watch for Signs of Infection
If irritation gets worse instead of better, for example, if you see increased redness, swelling, heat or pain, it could be a sign of an infection.
In that case, it's important to see a doctor or nurse for advice and treatment.
Your Skin Matters
Taking care of your skin is more than just about comfort, it’s an essential part of managing incontinence.
At IncontinenceProducts.com.au, we offer a full range of skin care products, including body wipes, barrier creams, gentle wash wipes, and more, carefully selected to support you at every step.
Browse our skin care essentials today and give your skin the gentle care it deserves.
Need Help Choosing the Right Skin Care Products?
If you have any questions about which product is best for you, how to use it, or what ingredients it contains, our friendly team is here to help .
Contact us today — we’re always happy to support you with advice, product recommendations, and answers to any questions you may have.