“Dermatitis is not just a minor irritation. It can lead to skin breakdown, infections, and real pain if we don’t act early.” 

Did you know that skin problems are extremely common among people living with urinary incontinence? We spoke with Dr Claudio Pedone, geriatrician at the Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Campus Bio‑Medico in Rome, to understand why incontinence‑associated dermatitis is so often underestimated and what patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals can do to prevent it. Here, he shares practical, experience‑based advice. 

Understanding incontinence‑associated dermatitis 

Fiona Ecarnot: “How common is IAD , and why is it such an important issue?” 

Dr. Claudio Pedone: 
“Incontinence‑associated dermatitis is very common. Recent data show that about one out of two people with urinary incontinence also have dermatitis. 

The problem is that dermatitis adds an extra burden on top of incontinence itself. Patients report discomfort, irritation, and sometimes real pain. Beyond physical symptoms, it also affects self‑esteem and social interactions. So, it has a clear and significant impact on quality of life.” 

Why dermatitis is often underestimated 

Fiona Ecarnot: “Why do you think this condition is still not taken seriously enough?” 

Dr. Claudio Pedone: 
“Many people underestimate how severe dermatitis can become. It is often seen as ‘just redness,’ but it is not just erythema. Dermatitis can progress to skin breakdown and lead to infections, which can be very serious. 

Education is essential for patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals. We also need to address the stigma around urinary incontinence and the use of incontinence products, which often prevents people from speaking openly or seeking advice.” 

Choosing the right incontinence product to protect skin health 

Fiona Ecarnot: “What advice do you give patients when choosing an incontinence product to protect their skin?” 

Dr. Claudio Pedone:  
“The most important factor leading to dermatitis is maceration — prolonged exposure of the skin to moisture. That’s why effective absorption is key. 

Urine needs to be absorbed quickly and locked away so it does not remain in contact with the skin. The speed of absorption really matters, especially in people who cannot communicate incontinence episodes, such as those with cognitive decline. 

In those situations, having a highly effective absorbent product is essential for protecting skin integrity.” 

Daily care: what patients and caregivers should do 

Fiona Ecarnot: “What advice do you give to patients and untrained caregivers on maintaining skin integrity for someone with urinary incontinence?” 

Dr. Claudio Pedone: 
“Keeping the skin clean and dry is of the foremost importance. Good care should be consistent and preventive — not only reactive 

Many caregivers are informal caregivers, often family members, and they may not fully realise that dermatitis is a serious issue. It is not simply something that comes with wearing absorbent products.” 

Good care includes:
– Using an appropriate, effective incontinence product 
– Changing products regularly to minimise moisture exposure 
– Cleaning the skin gently after each episode 
– Using mild, pH‑balanced cleansers 
– Applying barrier products such as zinc oxide creams 

“Skin should be checked regularly,” Dr. Pedone adds. “Redness or irritation can be an early sign of dermatitis. Acting early can prevent progression to more serious skin damage.” 

When dermatitis is already present, professional medical advice is essential. Self-treatment without guidance can allow the problem to worsen. 

The role of caregivers and the need for education 

Fiona Ecarnot: “What challenges do you see when care is provided by family members?” 

Dr. Claudio Pedone: 
“Most caregivers are informal and untrained. They are doing their best, but they may not be aware that dermatitis is preventable and potentially serious. 

Caregivers need to understand that prevention is fundamental, and that the right products and routines can make a very big difference. With better education, many cases of skin damage could be avoided.

The bigger picture: quality of life and stigma

Fiona Ecarnot: “What do you wish more people understood about the link between incontinence and skin health?” 

Dr. Claudio Pedone: 
“Dermatitis adds additional discomfort and pain to an already difficult condition. But beyond that, stigma plays a huge role. Many people suffer in silence. 

Urinary incontinence does not define a person’s value or quality of life. When managed properly — with the right products, skincare, and support — people can continue living active lives, working, socialising, and maintaining their dignity.” 

When preventive skin care should begin 

Fiona Ecarnot: “When should skin care routines begin for people with urinary incontinence? Is it important to take preventive measures even before any visible irritation appears?” 

Dr. Claudio Pedone: 
“Preventive skincare should begin at the moment urinary incontinence is diagnosed. If there is a visible lesion, it’s already too late for prevention. 

Management of urinary incontinence and protection of skin integrity must happen in parallel. Prevention always comes first. Treatment comes later — when prevention has failed.” 

He also highlights the responsibility of healthcare professionals: 
“Patients rarely disclose incontinence on their own. Active questioning is recommended by all guidelines. Making the diagnosis is the first preventive step in avoiding complications such as dermatitis.”