Skincare Tips for Plus-Size Incontinence
Bariatric and Plus-Size
Incontinence
Information and Education
Product Recommendation
Unique Needs

Skincare Tips for Plus-Size Incontinence

Many people across the world experience continence issues, and individual situations and circumstances often determine how best to manage the problem.

Those who are are plus-size and managing incontinence are often referred to as those with "bariatric incontinence". Individuals who manage bariatric incontinence face unique challenges when it comes to choosing a suitable product and maintaining skin health.

What is Bariatric Incontinence?

The term bariatric is a branch of medicine that focuses on the study of obesity. Medical professionals who specialize in this area of medicine are concerned with determining the causes, prevention and treatment of obesity. 

Bariatric incontinence describes continence issues in those who are obese. In many cases, obesity can cause incontinence because the extra weight puts increased pressure on the bladder. This causes the muscles around the bladder to weaken, allowing urine to leak out.

The Importance of Bariatric Skincare

Maintaining proper skincare is essential when managing incontinence, and it's even more important if you're managing bariatric incontinence.

Bariatric patients have larger skin folds, which can be difficult to clean regularly and dry entirely after cleaning. When wearing absorbent products, skin comes into frequent, and sometimes prolonged, contact with urine and/or feces. This can cause a condition called Incontinence Associated Dermatitis (IAD), which is an inflammation or the perineal skin. If left untreated, the condition can worsen and affect surrounding areas. Those who are plus-size and managing incontinence are also at a higher risk for pressure sores. This is because urine can degrade the condition of their skin faster without them realizing.

These are just a few common skin issues that bariatric patients face due to their incontinence. To ensure your skin is healthy and safe, it's important to take precautions and ensure proper hygiene. 

Skincare Tips for Bariatric Incontinence

Tip #1:  Check skin often. People who manage bariatric incontinence will need to have their skin checked frequently and thoroughly, especially if they are bedridden or spend a lot of time in a wheelchair. Check for any signs of skin irritation or breakdown, and quickly address any issues. Be sure to check skin folds and areas that are often in contact with urine or feces.

Tip #2: Clean and dry skin thoroughly. Incontinence cleansers, washes and wipes are great for ensuring proper skincare. As they are designed for incontinence, they are formulated to help maintain skin health and proper pH. Be sure to fully cleanse skin folds/creases and anywhere that is in contact with an absorbent product and urine/feces. It's also important to ensure that these areas are also dried properly after cleaning, as moisture can irritate the skin and cause damage.  

Tip #3: Ensure that you are using a well-fitting absorbent product designed for bariatric patients. Like all incontinence products, finding an absorbent product that fits correctly is important. As bariatric patients have special sizing needs, many bestselling brands offer absorbent products specifically designed for bariatric incontinence. Make sure that the product fits properly, as a product that us too tight will cause skin irritation and a product that is too large will likely leak.

Tip #4: Address any skincare issues quickly. At the first sign of any skin conditions or breakdown, such as IAD, seek treatment immediately. Your healthcare professional will be able to guide you in regards to remedies and preventing skin damage associated with bariatric incontinence.

Choosing a Bariatric Incontinence Product

Choosing the right incontinence product is important. With a variety of bariatric products available, you have plenty of options to choose from. If you're not sure what product is right for you, we recommend you take advantage of our free sample program to try out a variety of different products.

Below are a few of our bestselling bariatric incontinence and skincare products (in no particular order). Always remember that if you have any questions or need some help, our team is always available to assist you. Please don't hesitate to get in touch with us Toll Free at 1-877-775-6656 or email help@healthwick.ca.

Attends Bariatric Overnight Underwear

Bariatric Incontinence Skin Care

New from Attends, these premium underwear offer exceptional overnight protection. Available in size 3XL, these pull-up underwear are highly-absorbent and feature strong leg elastics to prevent leaks. If you're looking for an absorbent underwear that has a breathable waistband, is comfortable and controls odours, Attends Bariatric Overnight Underwear are a great option. 

Fits 74" - 92" waist/hip, 300+ lbs. 10 per package, 4 packages per case.

TENA Protective Cream 

Bariatric Incontinence Skin Care

This protective cream from TENA is perfect for soothing perineal skin. It contains oils and vitamin E which help to keep skin healthy and balanced. As this is a specially formulated incontinence cream, this product will help to keep your skin dry while moisturizing by creating a barrier layer. This cream is scent-free, making it a great skincare option for those who experience sensitivity.

100mL/3.4 fl oz per tube.

Tranquility Hi-Rise Bariatric Briefs

Bariatric Incontinence Skin Care

This bariatric brief from Tranquility offers a high-rise design with stretchy side panels. The extended rise helps to ensure a better fit and offers more coverage. The outer layer is made of a soft, cloth-like material that is gentle for sensitive skin. As with all Tranquility products, the patented Peach Mat design is very absorbent, delicate on sensitive skin and controls bacteria and odour. 

Fits 64" - 96" waist/hip. 8 per package, 4 packages per case.

3M Cavilon Skin Cleanser

Bariatric Incontinence Skin Care

This skin cleanser from 3M is very popular with Healthwick customers. It is designed specifically for continence skin care and is gentle, effective and no-rise. This skin cleanser can also be used on both intact or irritated skin, as it contains ingredients to help condition skin and maintain a healthy skin pH.

236mL per bottle. Spray nozzle top for easy application.

TENA Bariatric Underpads

Bariatric Incontinence Skin Care

Underpads are a great way to protect bedding and furniture from unexpected leaks. These bariatric underpads feature a soft tops with a waterproof backing to stop fluids from passing through. Like all TENA products, these underpads are Latex-free, hypoallergenic and scent-free. They also work to reduce odours associated with incontinence. 

36" x 36". 10 per package, 10 packages per case.

Prevail Bariatric Briefs

Bariatric Incontinence Skin Care

Prevail Bariatric Briefs are available in 2 sizing options to ensure a better fit. These briefs feature a comfortable, stretch waistband. They are breathable and feature odour reducing technology. These bariatric briefs can be used day or night and offer great absorbency. Prevail products are always Latex-free, scent free and hypoallergenic to accommodate for sensitive skin. 

Size A fits 62" - 73" waist/hip. Size B fits up to 100" waist/hip. 10-12 per package, 4 packages per case. 

TENA Bariatric Comfort Pants

Bariatric Incontinence Skin Care

If you prefer to use incontinence pads over adult diapers or absorbent underwear, these comfort pants are a great way to secure pads in place. This bariatric pad holder is made of a lightweight and breathable fabric to allow air to come into contact with the skin. These comfort pants are washable and reusable and feature a body-close fit.

Fits 48" - 72" waist/hip. 1 per package, 25 per case.

 

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