Sore Skin From Incontinence Pads – What Your Skin Needs

That sore skin under pads just comes with incontinence. Many people don't talk about it out of embarrassment – and many relatives only notice late how much the skin is suffering. Yet much of it can be prevented.

Why the skin gets sore. Urine and stool soften the skin and alter its protective barrier. Softened skin handles friction poorly – from the pad, from movement, from wiping. Add the warmth under the pad, where germs and fungi thrive.

Change often. Not only when the pad is full. A pad with the right absorbency keeps skin drier than an oversized one that rarely gets changed.

Clean gently. Lukewarm water and, if needed, a mild, pH-balanced cleanser without fragrance. Regular soap dries skin out; wet wipes with alcohol or perfume irritate further.

Don't rub. Pat instead of wiping, even with stool. Water loosens residue so there's no need to scrub.

Dry and protect. Let the skin dry well before the next pad, including in skin folds. A barrier product that forms a thin protective layer can help – a nursing advisor or pharmacist will know which one suits.

When to get help: for open or weeping areas, for very red, shiny skin with small dots at the edges – which can be a fungal infection – for pain, or if the skin doesn't improve despite good care.

“Washing thoroughly with soap is what matters most.”
Thoroughly, yes; soap, no. It attacks skin that's already under stress.

“Powder keeps the skin dry.”
Powder can clump and rub. Letting the skin air-dry is better.

“Thicker pads protect the skin better.”
Not necessarily. What matters is how often they're changed and how well they fit.

“Sore skin is part of incontinence.”
No. It's common, but often preventable.

Skin under a pad doesn't need more care, it needs gentler care. Less soap, less rubbing, more water, more air – unspectacular, and that's exactly why it works so well day to day.