Improving diaper design to address incontinence associated dermatitis.

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Materials Science
• Gerontology

Background:

• Incontinence-associated dermatitis (IAD) is an inflammatory skin condition often caused by prolonged exposure to moisture and irritants.
• Aged skin has a weaker acid mantle, making it more susceptible to damage from alkaline conditions.
• Optimized adult incontinence briefs were developed to minimize skin barrier disruption.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate an optimized adult diaper design aimed at reducing incontinence-associated dermatitis (IAD).
• To assess the impact of improved diaper design features on skin surface pH, hydration, and occlusion.

Main Methods:

• Surface pH was measured on diaper top sheets after repeated wetting with a urine substitute.
• Stratum corneum hydration and occlusion were assessed using corneometry on human volunteers with different side panel materials.
• Skin condition was monitored in patients with pre-existing IAD after switching to the optimized diaper design.

Main Results:

• The optimized diaper design maintained an acidic surface pH (4.6) even after repeated wetting, unlike standard briefs (pH 7.1).
• Air-permeable side panels prevented excessive stratum corneum hydration compared to impermeable plastic films.
• Eight out of 12 patients with pre-existing IAD showed resolution of skin lesions after using the optimized briefs.

Conclusions:

• The improved adult brief design effectively creates an acidic skin surface environment.
• Breathable side panels mitigate over-hydration and occlusion, supporting epidermal barrier function.
• This optimized diaper design shows potential in reducing the incidence and severity of IAD.