Skincare and Hygiene
The following explains the basics of skin care:
It is important to know how to care for your skin if you have a bladder or bowel problem. Urine and faeces can be damaging to the skin causing sores and irritation. By following a simple routine you can have clean, healthy skin.
Why I am likely to have skin problems?
How can I reduce skin problems?
About skin care products
Travel
A Final Note
The words we use
- Constant dampness can damage the skin.
- Faeces contain bacteria which can cause infection and skin damage.
- Repeated wiping of the anus can cause soreness and skin damage.
- Urine and faeces can react together causing skin irritation.
- Frequent washing can cause dryness and irritation.
- There is a higher risk of having thrush, which causes rashes/itchiness.
- Some continence products can irritate skin e.g. latex sheaths.
- Mobility problems and general ill health can make skin problems worse.
- Remove dirty clothing and pads as soon as possible after an accident.
- Wash regularly.
- Gently pat skin dry.
- Moisturise if your skin if feeling dry.
- Using a barrier cream can help protect the skin.
- Put on clean, dry underwear, pads etc.
About skin care products
What cleansing products should I use?
Use products that have been specially made to cleanse the skin without causing dryness; they are available as non-aerosol sprays, foams and disposable wipes.
I have heard I should not use soap and baby wipes, why?
Soap can be very drying and can upset the natural pH balance (acidity) of your skin. If you must use soap, use an unscented, vegetable or glycerine variety. Baby wipes often contain alcohol, which can irritate and dry the skin.
Why do I need to moisturise, I thought my skin should be dry?
Your skin needs moisture to remain supple and healthy. But constant dampness caused by wet or soiled pants and pads can lead to problems. Repeated washing can cause dryness and using a moisturiser can prevent this.
Why do I need to use a barrier cream?
Barrier products form a protective layer which blocks out unwanted moisture.
What should I use to wash with?
Cotton cloths or disposable wipes are best, flannels and sponges can be too harsh for sore skin. Keep cloths thoroughly clean using a non-biological washing powder and store in a separate wash bag.
I have sore skin around my anus, I am finding it difficult to clean what should I do?
Consult your doctor or nurse as you may have an infection. Never scratch this delicate area. Use good quality, moisturising toilet paper and/or unscented wipes. Wipe gently and use each piece of toilet tissue once only, women should always wipe front to back to avoid infection. It is hard to clean this area properly, so after wiping wash in plain warm water and pat dry very gently or use a hairdryer on a low heat setting.
Travel
I am going on holiday: any advice on how to keep my skin clean and dry?
When travelling it is always a good idea to carry:
- Spare underwear and pads.
- A non-rinse cleanser and a plastic spray (like the one you use for house plants or ironing) for times when you cannot use washing facilities.
- Towels and soft cloths in a separate wash bag.
- Mattress, pillow, duvet protectors.
- Deodorising spray, which unlike a normal air freshener will remove odours, not simply mask them.
- Airtight bags for dirty clothing, you could even use scented refuse bags.
- A rinse free anti-bacterial cleanser for your hands - very useful in public toilets when using catheters.
- Try to carry as many of the above in your hand luggage in case of delays or lost baggage.
- In hot weather it is important to wear loose cotton clothing and allow the skin on your bottom to breathe at least part of the day.
- Women should try to wear stockings or crotch-less tights.
A Final Note
- You should be aware that some continence appliances and skincare products might cause skin problems and allergies.
- Always consult your doctor or nurse if you develop a severe skin irritation.
- Ask your continence advisor to recommend skincare products; many are available on prescription.
The Words We Use
Anus - the
opening of the bowel where faeces pass out of the body. Some people say
bottom, bum, rear end, back side.
Continence Advisor - specialist nurse for people with continence problems.
Continence
Problem (incontinence) - when a person cannot control the bladder or bowel so that urine or faeces leaks out. A continence problem can be either a small leak or a large leak. Some people say - problems down below, trouble with the water works, have a leak, wet yourself, have an accident, bladder problems.
Faeces - bodily wastes that passes out of the anus/bottom. Some people say - bowel motions or movement, stool, poo.
Urine
- liquid waste from the body that is stored in the bladder. Some people say - wee, pee.
Thrush-
fungal infection, most commonly affecting the vagina.
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