When living with incontinence, a good quality of life is important to uphold. “Diaper rash” can happen as a result of prolonged exposure to urine or stool. This can cause severe discomfort to individuals living with incontinence. 

What are symptoms of Incontinence Associated Dermatitis (IAD)?

Incontinence associated dermatitis (IAD) is a skin related condition that involves redness, itching, rashes, and bed sores. It occurs when a person living with urinary or fecal incontinence develops irritation due to skin damage, which can lead to infection. 

Common signs of IAD include redness or pink hues around the affected area. This portion of the skin will feel warmer to the touch due to inflammation. If you or someone you are caring for are experiencing pain, a burning sensation, itching, or tingling, it is important to seek treatment as soon as possible. 

What causes skin damage from urinary or fecal incontinence? 

Skin irritation associated with incontinence is a known risk factor for developing pressure ulcers, also known as bedsores. Prolonged exposure to urine or stool increases moisture and harnesses harmful bacteria. Moisture surrounding the affected areas can lead to secondary skin infections such as candidiasis – a fungal infection. 

IAD can result from immobility, improper hygiene, and lack of care. A person living with incontinence may have a medical condition that leads to frequent soiling, thus increasing their risk for skin infections. Early detection is important in IAD prevention.

How does incontinence cause IAD?

In order to regulate bacteria, a healthy skin barrier is slightly acidic (pH 4-6). When moisture builds up due incontinence, the skin is overhydrated and pH changes from normal conditions. This breaks down the skin barrier and triggers inflammation.

How to treat IAD?

Treating incontinence rashes require keeping the affected areas clean and dry. Maintaining proper hygiene involves removing the source of irritants (urine and/or feces) in a timely manner. Changing diapers or bed underpads when soiled can help prevent further skin damage.

Skin cleansers are preferred over soap to clean affected areas. This is because soap can increase pH, further damaging the skin barrier. Using medications and incontinence products can help treat IAD. Protect affected areas with topical skin care products such as petroleum jelly, creams, ointments and lotion.

SPC Super Absorbent Incontinence Products 

Purchasing higher quality incontinence products is important! Friction can cause a skin rash, especially when a brief or diaper is tight fitting. It is important to find incontinence supplies that fit properly with maximum absorbency to draw moisture away from the skin. In some cases, allowing the skin to breathe by not wearing a diaper can help reduce further skin damage. Using bed underpads can help catch leaks or fecal spills, especially during the night,.

SPC super absorbent incontinence products: 

• Reusable protective cotton underwear
• Bladder control liners
• Disposable adult diapers
• Sanitary pads
• Absorbent disposable bed pads (also available on Amazon)

San Pablo Commercial has undergone extensive product testing and only partners with leading manufacturers to ensure high quality, absorbent incontinence medical products. We source out premium materials and have designed a maximum fluid locking technology to make our products more absorbent than competitor brands. We want our customers to be satisfied with our products so they can worry less about incontinence, spend more time with family, and improve their quality of life.