Intimate area skin irritation: adult nappy rash causes & relief

Skin irritation in the intimate area is often the result of several contributing factors – typically a combination of moisture, heat, pressure, and friction. Below are some common causes:

1. Moisture and prolonged wetness

Urine against the skin from poor quality incontinence products is one of the most common causes. When skin is in constant contact with urine, sweat or faeces, its natural protective barrier starts to break down. The longer the area stays damp, the more likely it is to become irritated and sore. Loose stools and diarrhoea can also speed up this process because faeces is more acidic and damaging than urine. We recommend MoliCare® pads which have SkinGuard® Absorbent Core Technology built in to keep skin feeling dry and neutralise urine to a balanced pH.

2. Chafing and friction

Friction from tight clothing, pads that don’t fit well, or the skin rubbing against itself can all contribute towards irritated skin. This kind of rubbing damages the top layer of skin, leaving it more vulnerable to moisture and bacteria. Chafing is particularly common in warmer weather or when sitting down for long periods. Always choose incontinence products that are a comfortable, close fit and are made from soft materials such as MoliCare®.

3. Lack of airflow to the skin

When the skin is constantly covered – whether by tight clothing, plastic-backed incontinence products, or absorbent pads – it may not get enough air. This warm, enclosed environment traps heat and moisture against the skin, increasing the risk of irritation, rashes and even infection. Choosing breathable, cotton-based clothing and air-permeable incontinence products can help improve ventilation and reduce irritation.

4. Poor hygiene or cleaning habits

Clean the skin thoroughly after every product change – not just once a day – to reduce the risk of irritation. Leaving behind even small traces of urine or stool can lead to skin irritation, including urinary tract infections. Avoid harsh soaps or scrubbing too hard, as this can make things worse. Instead, stick to lukewarm water and a mild, non-perfumed cleanser whenever possible. Use MoliCare® skin care products designed for use in intimate areas and gentle on skin.

People with limited mobility or difficulty managing their own hygiene may be more vulnerable to skin irritation, especially if regular cleaning is delayed or overlooked. In these cases, help from a carer or bathroom adaptations to make it easier for them to maintain a good level of hygiene can make a big difference.

5. Skin allergies and product sensitivities

Although less common, some incontinence pads and barrier creams can irritate the skin or block the pad from absorbing urine. If you’ve recently switched products and noticed a rash develop, it’s worth checking the ingredients and trying a different product. Hypoallergenic products and fragrance-free MoliCare® skin barrier creams are often the better choices for individuals with sensitive skin and won’t stop the pad from absorbing urine.

6. Infection

Warm and damp conditions are ideal for fungal and yeast infections to thrive. If your rash doesn’t clear up within a few days or starts to smell, crack or become shiny or swollen, it could be infected. These types of infections can happen even when hygiene is good, especially if the skin has already been compromised by irritation.

Most rashes will clear up within a few days with some gentle skincare and the use of MoliCare® barrier cream, but there are times when it’s best to get a professional opinion. Contact a healthcare professional if: 

• The rash doesn’t improve after a few days or becomes more widespread.

• It becomes more painful or swollen.

• The skin-level rash turns into a deeper, open sore.

• The area becomes hot to the touch.

• You notice pus, oozing or bleeding.

• You develop a fever or flu-like symptoms. 

These are signs of an infection (bacterial or fungal) which may need prescription treatment. In this case, basic skincare may not be enough. Your healthcare professional might prescribe creams or tablets to clear the infection and prevent it from spreading. 

For further information, you can also view the British Association of Dermatologist’s website.

Preventing skin irritation

Keeping the area clean, dry and well-ventilated is key to maintaining healthy skin. In addition to good hygiene and skincare directions mentioned above, consider the following tips to prevent a rash from returning: 

• Wear loose or breathable clothing to allow airflow to the area.

• Don’t remain seated in the same position for too long. If possible, get up and move around to allow air movement to the area.

• Change your absorbent pads and underwear once they are saturated or at least every 8 hours.

• Make sure your incontinence product fits well – too loose, and it won’t protect you; too tight and it may rub. Consider opting for our MoliCare® fixpants, designed to hold pads in the right place.

If you do develop an area of irritated skin, early treatment is key. Don’t wait for it to get worse – early action can make a big difference.