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Healthy Skin Secrets
10 Tips for Preventing and Relieving Irritation Due to Incontinence
By Lisa A. Goldstein
The skin and perineal area should be promptly cleaned after each incontinence occurrence, recommends the NIH. "Avoid using soap and water on a washcloth because this may change the pH of the skin and be a cause of friction," says Dr. Novi. He recommends using a perineal cleaner, which contains water, and a surfactant such as lauryl sulfate.
Unfortunately, frequent cleansing of the skin may cause drying and irritation, so moisturizing creams may be applied to keep the skin moist. "The use of moisturizers helps replace skin oils and promotes an effective water barrier," Dr. Novi says. "Most products [that are recommended] contain glycerin, lanolin, mineral oil or methyl glucose esters. Consideration should be given to using a skin sealant or moisture barrier. Creams and ointments that contain lanolin or petrolatum create a film over the skin, protecting it from urine and feces."
The NIH emphasizes that use of these products does not replace the need to cleanse the skin after each incontinence occurrence. Re-apply the cream or ointment after thoroughly cleansing and drying the skin.
If a yeast infection develops there are several products that can be used for treatment. The NIH says if the skin is constantly moist, a medicated antifungal powder may be used. A moisture barrier or skin sealant may be applied over the powder. Antifungal creams also are available for people who have a yeast infection on dry, cracked skin.
Always seek the help of a health care provider if severe skin irritation develops.
