Skincare essentials
Whether you’re living with incontinence or caring for someone who is, it’s important to make sure the skin is healthy and cared for. Using incontinence pads doesn’t mean that you can’t take normal care of the skin, but it’s important to remember to use them correctly, ensuring they are always closely fitted to the skin.
Caring for the skin
Use mild soap or cleanser, ideally with a pH of 5.5, to minimise the risk of irritation. Gently pat the skin dry.
Only use creams prescribed by a doctor or nurse. Ensure the skin is dry and gently massage a small amount into the skin, in the direction of hair growth. Don’t ‘rub in’, and avoid using large amounts of cream - this may reduce the effectiveness of the incontinence pads.
Remember that as you get older, the skin takes longer to rehydrate, and some factors can increase the risk of skin breakdown, including overwashing with soap and water.
- DO tell your continence adviser if the skin is wet when you change your pad.
- DO tell you continence adviser if you have skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis.
- DO note the condition of your skin whilst using incontinence pads. Tell your continence adviser if there are any changes, including if your skin becomes red, sore or broken.
- DO tell your continence adviser if you are using any ointments or creams.
- DO wash your hands before and after changing a pad.
- DON’T apply ointments or creams unless prescribed by your doctor or advised by your continence adviser.
- DON’T use talcum powder in the area covered by the pad. This can result in friction, which may damage the skin and can also affect how well the pad works.
- DON’T wear more than one pad at a time.
Three simple skincare steps
1. Cleanse A proper cleanse is thorough but gentle enough that it doesn’t compromise the integrity of the skin barrier. Use a mild cleanser and avoid rubbing too hard.
2. Moisturise Skin elasticity is crucial to proper skin barrier function. Moisturising properly after each cleanse keeps the skin supple and strong.
3. Protect Using skin protectants maintains a healthy, happy skin, protecting against excessive moisture and exposure to irritants.
We can help, with a full range of products suitable for each step and which allow you to alternate cleansing with and without water.