Urine is irritating to the skin and can quickly damage it and the tissues underneath. The result may be redness, a rash or sores. These sores are called "bedsores," "pressure sores," or "skin ulcers" and are much, much easier to prevent than cure. If you notice redness or sores on the skin, seek immediate medical attention.

Once a sore is established it can produce a discharge, which may contain pus, become foul smelling, or even turn black indicating a serious infection or tissue death. Sores can quickly become serious, reaching down into muscles, tendons and the bone. At worst, surgery is needed to repair the affected area. It can take months for new tissue to grow and a deep sore to heal.

You can fight skin problems due to incontinence by following these tips:

Skin Care Tips:

• Examine the skin on a daily basis for signs of skin break down. Call your doctor or health care provider if the skin appears to be pink, bright red, burned, irritated or chafed. Often, if caught early, the treatment can be simple and quite effective. In women, a vaginal infection could be producing irritating secretions.

• Examine the skin on a daily basis for signs of skin break down.

• Call your doctor or health care provider if the skin appears to be pink, bright red, burned, irritated or chafed. Often, if caught early, the treatment can be simple and quite effective. In women, a vaginal infection could be producing irritating secretions.

• Change absorbent products as soon as they become wet to keep the skin as dry as possible.

• Wipe skin with a mild, non-irritating soap and rinse with warm water every time you change an absorbent product. Another option is a no-rinse perineal wash. Perineal washes are convenient, save time and work well to remove urine without discomfort. In addition, they are gentler to the skin than bar soap.

• After rinsing, air dry or gently pat skin dry using a soft cloth. Apply a thin layer of moisture barrier ointment according to package directions. Your doctor or pharmacist can recommend an effective ointment.

• A regular bathing routine is also helpful to assure delicate skin is clean and free from irritants.

• Avoid using powder. It traps moisture in skin folds.

• If the person you are caring for is confined to bed, turning them frequently helps avoid pressure sores caused from lying on one spot too long.

• Keep bedding clean, dry and free of wrinkles. Wrinkled sheets may cause skin friction and irritation.

• Use soft, padded mattresses or chairs. Consider using an egg-crate mattress to further cushion the bed. A softer surface spreads weight over a larger skin area and reduces pressure directly under the bones.

• If incontinence episodes occur in bed, protect the mattress with a plastic cloth placed underneath a fitted cotton sheet. You can purchase these at medical supply stores. Remember to keep the sheets as wrinkle-free as possible. Some people prefer Jersey Knit sheets made of cotton and cotton blends that feel similar to a t-shirt.

• If using an absorbent product, make sure it is not too tight or rubbing against the skin and irritating it. If you have any questions about applying DEPEND® and POISE® absorbent products, see our How to Use section for step-by-step directions and illustrations.

Learn More:

The First Step

Coping with Incontinence

The Importance of Healthy Skin

Handling Daily Needs