Bowel health

Skin care and bowel hygiene

Preventing soreness and skin breakdown around the anal area.

Anyone who has frequent bowel movements, diarrhea, or bowel leakage (fecal incontinence) may experience soreness or skin irritation around the anal region. Occasionally the skin can become so inflamed that it breaks into open sores. You can prevent skin breakdown by following good skin care habits.

Cleaning and washing

After a bowel movement, men and women should tighten the anal sphincter before wiping. Women should always wipe from front to back to prevent fecal matter from getting into the urethra and vagina.

• Wipe from front to back, toward the anus.
• Always wipe gently with soft toilet paper, or ideally moist toilet paper.
• Wipe only once with each piece of toilet paper so you do not re-contaminate the area.
• Wash in warm water alone or with a minimal amount of mild, fragrance-free soap.
• Use non-biological washing powder.
• Gently pat the skin completely dry, avoiding rubbing.
• If drying is difficult or uncomfortable, try a hairdryer on a low setting, used very carefully.
• Allow air to reach the irritated area for some part of every day.
• Use protective skin creams containing zinc as recommended by your doctor.

What to avoid

• Baths with extra-hot water
• Soaking for long periods in the bathtub
• Disinfectants and antiseptics
• Bath oils, bath salts, and talcum powder
• Plastic pants, pads, and sheets, which cause sweating
• Scratching the irritated area

Additional tips

• Some people find that citrus and acidic foods cause or worsen skin irritation.
• Eat a healthy, balanced diet that is high in fiber.
• Drink plenty of fluids.
• Wear cotton underwear to allow the skin to breathe.
• Talk to your healthcare provider about further treatment options. Persistent problems need medical attention.