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Side Effects of Wearing Incontinence Pads and How to Prevent Them
Incontinence pads make a huge difference to the lives of millions of women and men experiencing incontinence, giving people the confidence and security they need to get on with their usual daily activities.
However, with any product worn against the skin for extended periods of time, pads can sometimes cause unwanted side effects. They’re usually mild and manageable, but knowing what the side effects of wearing incontinence pads are and how to prevent them can help keep you comfortable and protect your skin.
What Are The Side Effects of Wearing Incontinence Pads?
The side effects of wearing incontinence pads typically stem from prolonged contact with moisture and friction against the skin, including skin irritation, redness, and incontinence-associated dermatitis (IAD).
Skin Irritation & Chafing
One of the most common side effects of wearing incontinence pads is soreness or chafing around the groin or thighs. The good news is that this issue is usually preventable. Skin irritation or chafing is typically caused by friction from wearing a pad that doesn’t fit quite right, or from wearing the same pad for too long.
So, by choosing incontinence products that fit you properly and changing them regularly, you can reduce the risk of redness, soreness, and chafing.
Incontinence-Associated Dermatitis (IAD)
Incontinence-associated dermatitis (IAD) is a form of skin inflammation caused by prolonged exposure to moisture trapped against the skin through urine or stools.
It appears as sore, red, inflamed skin in the genital or buttock area. Unlike regular skin irritation, IAD develops specifically from repeated exposure to bladder or bowel incontinence and will get worse if the cause - infrequent changes - isn’t resolved.
Odour & Bacterial Growth
Moisture trapped against the skin for long amounts of time creates prime conditions for bacteria to build up, leading to unwanted odour and, in some cases, infections. This is not only uncomfortable to experience, but is also a hygiene issue.
Allergic Reactions to Materials or Fragrances
Some pads contain fragrances or synthetic materials that can irritate the skin, particularly for those with sensitive skin or susceptible to skin irritation. Allergic reactions usually appear quickly and in the exact area the material touches. Once contact with the product is over, the irritation and redness tend to improve quickly.
How to Prevent Side Effects of Wearing Incontinence Pads
Most side effects can be avoided by following these good habits:
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Changing pads regularly
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Choosing the right size and absorbency
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Using products with breathable materials
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Keeping skin clean and dry between changes
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Using a barrier cream
Best Incontinence Pads for Sensitive Skin
If you’re prone to irritation, look for incontinence products designed for sensitive skin. These products will usually avoid fragrances and materials that can irritate the skin, while featuring breathable designs and a secure fit that minimises rubbing while you’re moving about. Here are some recommendations:
1. Vivactive Lady Discreet Maxi Plus Pads (1000ml)
Best for: Trusted protection for moderate to heavy leaks
Backed up with TRIPLE LAYER LOCK™ technology, the Lady Discreet Maxi pads from Vivactive offer up to 1000ml of absorbency and feature a breathable backsheet to keep air circulating during wear. Enriched with aloe vera to protect your skin and 65% thinner than comparable products from other leading brands, these are a great option for women wanting protection without compromise.
2. TENA Lights Sensitive Liners Long (100ml)
Best for: Light protection
Offering light protection for small leaks, TENA Lights Sensitive Liners are designed to absorb up to 100ml of urine. They're dermatologically tested and contain no fragrances or dyes. Plus, the breathable materials used help maintain the skin's natural moisture balance.
3. iD Sensitive Form Plus (1500ml)
Best for: Moderate daytime protection
For individuals with moderate incontinence and sensitive skin, the iD Sensitive Form Plus range is a reliable option. These pads offer speedy absorption, with multiple layers of super absorbent polymers. They're also designed with a close-to-body fit to avoid rubbing and chafing.
4. iD Sensitive Form Maxi Night (3135ml)
Best for: Heavy leaks, overnight protection
iD Sensitive Form Maxi Night incontinence pads offer complete protection for heavy leaks and overnight usage. They're latex-free, super absorbent and are made with a breathable cotton-feel material.
Best Wipes for Sensitive Skin
To avoid unwanted side effects of wearing incontinence pads, keeping your skin clean and dry is essential. These wipes are our top picks to help you cleanse and protect your skin, whether you’re at home or on the go.
1. Vivactive Cleanse and Protect Wet Wipes
Vivactive Cleanse and Protect Wet Wipes are everyday wipes that clean and help protect your skin at the same time. They’re expertly formulated to offer superior barrier protection, with 50% more of the protective ingredient than alternative wipes.
2. Vivactive Feminine Hygiene Wet Wipes
Vivactive Feminine Hygiene Wet Wipes offer gentle protection for intimate skin. They're pH-balanced and specifically formulated for feminine hygiene. Plus, they’re free from artificial fragrances and dyes.
3. Vivactive 2-in-1 Wet Wash Gloves with Barrier Cream
With Vivactive 2-in-1 Wet Wash Gloves with Barrier Cream, you can cleanse and protect your skin in one simple step. The smooth, curved shape of the glove helps get around all of your body contours, so you can easily cleanse those harder-to-reach places.
Best Creams for Incontinence-Associated Dermatitis
To help prevent IAD, we recommend using barrier creams and moisturisers when wearing disposable incontinence pants or pads. Here are several recommended options.
1. TENA Barrier Cream
TENA Barrier Cream is perfume-free and designed to protect fragile skin by creating a water-repellent protective layer. It is also dermatologically tested and Skin Health Alliance endorsed.
2. Serenity Care Barrier Cream with Zinc Oxide
Serenity Care Barrier Cream is kind to skin and helps you avoid irritation by creating a physical barrier against dampness and bacteria. With 0% alcohol and 0% perfume, this product is an essential item for those with sensitive skin.
3. Cytolax Barrier Cream
Cytolax Barrier Cream offers 24-hour protection with a hypoallergenic formulation designed specifically for sensitive skin. The unique composition reduces the risk of allergic reactions and maintains the skin's natural pH balance.
Shop Our Range of Skin-Friendly Incontinence Products
The best way to protect your skin and prevent side effects of wearing incontinence pads is to ensure you’re choosing skin-friendly pads and pants, along with barrier creams and other gentle skincare products.
At Incontinence Choice, we stock a wide range of skin-friendly products, from disposable incontinence pads & net fixation pants to personal care & cleaning products and bed & chair protection. Shop online today.
