Diaper rash is a common skin issue occurring in people of all ages. In a nutshell, it occurs when your skin becomes irritated by the chemicals found in stool and urine, which can cause a range of inflammatory skin conditions. If you fail to change your diaper, your thighs, inner skin, buttocks, or genitals may become affected.
Additional factors that can cause diaper rash in adults include allergic reactions, fungal or yeast infections, warm and sensitive skin, and skin frictions.
To understand more about this condition, its causes, and how to prevent or treat it, we’ve listed everything you need to know in the article below. Read on to discover more.
Causes
Notably, diaper rash is caused by several factors, some of which can be treated instantly, while others take longer to heal.
Most common causes related to using adult diaper products include:
- Chafing and rubbing, which causes damage to the skin barrier
- Irritation from trapped moisture or heat
- Allergies, caused by perfumes, dyes, or materials used to create adult diapers.
- Ammonia-related irritation. This is caused by urine or the enzymes in stools. The combination of an alkaline pH and noxious chemical irritants can stimulate the skin to erode. Damage to the skin can occur within just 10–15 minutes after contact with moisture from urine or stools, causing slight swelling and overhydration.
- Bacterial and fungal infections. The most prevalent being Staphylococcus aureus and Candida albicans.
- Skin flare-ups, including psoriasis and eczema.
Prevention
As the age-old saying goes, prevention is better than cure. It’s better to catch and stop a problem early than treat it further down the line. Thankfully, there are numerous preventions available when it comes to how to relieve diaper rash pain fast. A holistic approach that involves using high-quality absorbent hygiene products alongside appropriate skin care will help maintain good skin health.
One of the easiest ways to prevent adult diaper rash is to ensure the correct levels of hygiene. Showering and bathing regularly and patting your skin dry afterward will help with this. It’s important to ensure your skin is bone dry before using incontinence products or putting on an adult diaper.
Other ways to prevent adult diaper rash include:
- Change diapers frequently: As soon as products become soiled, you must change them. This will prevent bacteria from forming and rashes from occurring.
- Opt for hypoallergenic products: This is especially the case if you have sensitive skin. Products to avoid? Highly perfumed items and those created out of synthetic materials.
- Use skin protectants: using ointments or barrier creams is a great way to avoid diaper rash and can prevent dry skin. These creams are readily available over the counter and can be applied regularly throughout the day. If unable to get to a chemist, petroleum-based products are a great substitute.
Treatments
If you are experiencing diaper rash, it’s time to look at the treatment options available to you. These will assist you in getting rid of extreme discomfort and itching, as speedily as possible.
Available treatments range from investing in super absorbent diapers to wet wipes. We’ve listed some of the most common treatment options below:
- Wet Wipes: Diaper rash in adults can be treated using medicated wet wipes, as unlike babies, adults have less delicate skin. These wet wipes keep bacteria at bay by ensuring that the area that encounters the diaper is clean. For best results, use these before and after applying and changing diapers, remembering to allow the skin to dry before putting the new diaper on.
- Invest in Super Absorbent Diapers: Choose quality products from a brand you know you can trust. Poor-quality diapers will likely boast materials that aren’t absorbent enough, which will leave your skin feeling wet all day. Try to choose diapers that promise to be super absorbent and comfy. Wetness is the most common cause of diaper rash.
- Use Anti-Rash Cream or Powder: Look for creams and ointments that contain zinc oxide as the main active ingredient. Zinc oxide helps create a protective barrier on the skin, provides soothing relief, and promotes healing. Consider using an ointment or paste instead of cream for severe rashes, as it provides thicker coverage.
- Avoid Using Highly Perfumed Soaps and Body Washes: Avoid scented body washes when treating diaper rash, as fragrances can irritate skin. Use a fragrance-free, sensitive skin cleanser instead. Look for medicated washes or mild options. If the rash persists or worsens, see a doctor. They can prescribe stronger creams to clear up severe or recurring diaper rash.
- Bathe Regularly: Aim for a bath at least once daily when dealing with diaper rash. A warm bath can help soothe inflamed skin and promote healing. Make sure the water is at a comfortable temperature – not too hot. You can add a couple of tablespoons of baking soda to the bathwater as a home remedy to help treat diaper rash. The baking soda will help neutralize the skin’s pH and has mild antiseptic properties to kill bacteria. Clean the diaper area gently with a soft washcloth. Avoid harsh scrubbing, which could further irritate the rash. Be sure to rinse away all traces of soap, as leftover suds can sting. Consistent bathing and good hygiene practices will help clear up diaper rash faster.
- Let Your Skin Breathe: Wearing diapers for lengthy periods will likely lead to skin irritation. Allow your skin a break from diapers and let it breathe or air out. Air exposure in between diaper changes helps to heal rashes quickly.
The Bottom Line
Although diaper rashes can be inconvenient and painful, there are several ways to prevent this skin condition from occurring. Many treatments are available for those suffering from this ailment.
When treated correctly, severe diaper rash can be easily cured. The longest this would take would be within 1 or 2 weeks. If you are struggling to treat a rash, speak to your Dermatologist. They will be able to suggest a personalized treatment plan. All treatments are different, the key is to catch it fast and find one that works for you! Allowing diaper rash to persist can lead to major skin and body problems.