INCONTINENCE SKIN CARE PRODUCTS: WHERE TO START

Skin care is a vital, yet often forgotten element of incontinence care. Clinical research specialist James B. Lutz states, “incontinence is associated with considerable morbidity as it predisposes individuals to perineal rashes, pressure sores, indwelling catheters, infections and urosepsis.” He continues, “to the patient it represents considerable embarrassment and frequently leads to self-isolation.”

Programmes such as the NHS Safety Thermometer now identify maintaining skin integrity as one of the key factors to reducing patient harm. The soap and water cleansing method has actually been proven to irritate the skin even more when you are affected by incontinence. It is therefore vital to use the right incontinence skin care products to protect and cleanse the skin.

Our Guide to Incontinence Skin Care Products

For an effective cleansing routine, you should look for the following products:

Barrier Creams

When the skin frequently comes in contact with urine or faeces, it can become irritated and lead to infection. Barrier creams form a protective layer to protect the skin against moisture and prevent infections such as incontinence associated dermatitis. The products often also contain Zinc Oxide, Glycerine and Panthenol to soothe and reduce any irritation.

Body Wash

Body wash products can be used in the shower and can be used daily for deodorising and good hygiene maintenance. They are an alternative to soaps and shower gel which often irritate the skin further. Many incontinence body wash products are multi-functional, which serves as a cost effective and time-saving option.

Clinisan Body Wash

Clinisan Bodywash

All-in-one shampoo, body wash and foam bath 250ml

Contains Chlorhexidine and Tea Tree Oil

PH Neutral

Ideal for Continence Care

£4.19

Buy Clinisan Bodywash 250ml

Incontinence Wipes

You can choose between incontinence wet wipes and dry wipes. You can use dry wipes alongside a cleansing product, whereas a wet wipe can be used on its own. Wet wipes save you time and energy as they are an alternative to buying creams or traditional cleansing. These wipes feature a moisturising composition that deodorises skin as well as fighting bacteria. Dry wipes on the other hand, are often preferred for their lack of chemicals. Dry wipes can provide comfort with the simple addition of warm water; however, it is recommended to use them alongside creams and foams for the best results.

Conti Dry Wipes are a popular range of incontinence wipes, offering wipes of various materials and thickness to suit your needs.

Shop the Conti Range

Cleansing Cream or Foam

Cleansing creams and foams are designed to cleanse, moisturise and nourish the skin. These products can be used alongside creams and foams. TENA Wash cream is a three-in-one formula, designed to maintain the skin’s natural PH and balance, leaving the skin feeling clean and free from odours.

TENA Wash Cream

TENA Wash Cream

  • Alcohol-free and soap-free
  • Eliminates the risk of cross contamination from wash cloths
  • Effective on sensitive skin
  • Cleanses, restores skin health

£4.92

Buy TENA Wash Cream

iD Care Moisturising Cleansing Milk

iD Care Moisturising Cleansing Milk

Hypoallergenic

Gently Fragranced

500ml

Perfect for those on a budget

£3.72

Buy iD Care Cleansing Milk

Choosing Skin Care Products

Are you on a Budget?

If you are on a budget, it can be useful to shop for cheaper brands of skin care. These include iD Care and Primacare Wipes.

Do you have Sensitive Skin?

iD Care is a range especially designed for individuals with sensitive skin. All of their products are gently fragranced and have no harsh chemicals that could irritate skin.

Do you have Poor Mobility?

Bed bath wipes are popular products for people who are at risk of falls and injury when bathing. They are a better alternative to showers and baths. Bed bath wipes are capable of delivering a full-body wash without the need for traditional soap and water methods. Most bed bath wipes use a gentle cleansing formula, allowing them to be used by those with sensitive or more delicate skin. Recent studies have been published highlighting the link between soap and water-based bed bathing and HCAIs, such as catheter-associated urinary tract infections.