When you’re managing incontinence, protecting your skin is just as important as managing leaks.

Incontinence & Skin Care

Urine and moisture left against the skin for too long can lead to redness, irritation, itching and a condition called incontinence-associated dermatitis (IAD). When the skin barrier becomes damaged, it can also become more vulnerable to bacterial or fungal infection.

The good news? A few simple habits can help keep skin cleaner, drier and more comfortable.

Simple Ways to Stay Clean and Dry

1. Change Wet Products Promptly

One of the most important things you can do is limit how long moisture stays against your skin.

Don't wait until a pad, booster, protective underwear or brief is completely saturated before changing it. Prolonged contact with urine or stool can weaken and irritate the skin.

Pay special attention to booster pads. Boosters add absorbency, but they still need to be changed appropriately. If a booster becomes saturated, replace it rather than relying on additional layers to extend wear.

Fresh protection helps keep moisture away from vulnerable skin.

2. Wash and Refresh Whenever You Can

If you're at home and have the opportunity, gently wash or cleanse the skin after an incontinence episode and during product changes as needed.

A shower or gentle wash can be especially helpful after heavier leakage or bowel incontinence. Use a mild, non-perfumed cleanser, rinse thoroughly and pat the skin dry rather than rubbing it. Frequent washing with harsh soaps or vigorous scrubbing can actually damage the skin barrier, so gentle cleansing is key.

Think clean and gentle, not scrubbed.

3. Keep Cleansing Wipes Close

Of course, a shower isn't always an option.

That's where TotalDry XL Premium Washcloths can make everyday incontinence care easier.

At 8" × 12", these extra-large wipes provide plenty of surface area for cleansing during changes. They're thick and soft, with enhanced lifting and wiping performance, and are enriched with aloe vera and chamomile.

Keep them beside your bed, in the bathroom, in a caregiver station or in your bag when you're away from home.

Clean. Refresh. Change.

4. Dry Skin Before Putting on Fresh Protection

After cleansing, make sure the area is gently and thoroughly dried before putting on a new pad, brief or protective underwear.

Pay particular attention to skin folds where moisture can remain trapped. Avoid aggressive rubbing; gently patting the area dry reduces unnecessary friction.

Starting with clean, dry skin gives your fresh incontinence product a better chance to do its job.

5. Choose Products That Pull Moisture Away

Absorbency isn't only about preventing leaks.

A quality incontinence product should absorb fluid and help keep it away from the skin. Staying in a wet product increases moisture and friction, both of which can contribute to skin irritation and breakdown.

Choose the right absorbency for your needs, and consider higher-absorbency protection for overnight or extended periods between changes.

6. Don't Ignore Skin Irritation

Check your skin regularly.

Watch for:

• Redness or rash
• Itching or burning
• Tender or painful skin
• Peeling or cracking
• Persistent dampness
• Open or broken skin

If irritation doesn't improve, becomes painful, spreads, or you notice signs of infection, contact a healthcare professional.

What About UTIs?

Good hygiene matters, but it's important not to imply that wearing an incontinence product itself directly causes a urinary tract infection.

UTIs have many possible causes. Still, keeping the genital and surrounding skin clean, changing soiled products promptly, and avoiding prolonged exposure to urine or stool are sensible parts of good personal hygiene.

If you develop burning with urination, fever, pelvic discomfort, blood in the urine, or a sudden change in urinary symptoms, talk with a healthcare professional.

A Simple Incontinence Skin-Care Routine

Keep it simple:

Clean → Dry → Change → Protect

Clean the skin gently. Dry it thoroughly. Change wet or soiled products promptly. Choose absorbent protection appropriate for your needs.

And when washing isn't convenient, keep TotalDry XL Premium Washcloths nearby for an easy, gentle refresh.

Better Protection Starts With Healthy Skin

Managing incontinence isn't only about staying dry. It's about keeping your skin comfortable and cared for, too.

With regular changes, gentle cleansing and the right absorbent products, you can create a simple routine that helps you feel clean, dry and confident every day.