Managing MASD Wound: Tips On How To Heal Macerated Skin

1. Incontinence-associated dermatitis  

IAD is an inflammation of the perineal skin that occurs when urine or stool touches the perineal or peri-genital skin. According to a research paper on the same subject, IAD is a common problem that affects half of the people dealing with incontinence and using absorbent products.   

2. Intertriginous dermatitis  

Also known as intertrigo refers to superficial skin inflammation that often aggravates due to heat, friction, moisture, and maceration. A study published by the National Library of Medicine states that Intertrigo commonly becomes secondarily infected, notably with Candida.  

3. Peri-wound moisture-associated dermatitis  

Also known as peri-wound dermatitis, it refers to skin maceration from a bandage or wound drainage. When the wound heals, a yellow scab starts to form and produces exudate called serous fluid, which offers the wound nourishment and moisture required for healing. It comprises protein, sugar, electrolytes, and white blood cells. However, as the wound starts to weep, it may cause a maceration, rash, or irritation around the peri-wound skin.   

4. Peristomal moisture-associated dermatitis  

Another type of MASD wound is peristomal moisture-associated dermatitis. This type of skin damage results from moisture oozing out of stoma skin in individuals with ostomy, overactive bowel, diarrhea, or fistulas. Peristomal skin damage is also related to ostomy problems such as loose pouch or ostomy pancaking.    

1. Maintain proper hygiene  

Use a mild, pH-balanced wound cleanser and water to clean the affected area. Pat the skin dry with a soft and clean cloth. Do not rub the peri-wound skin vigorously. It can damage the fragile skin more.    

Cure Nurse Assist USP Sterile Saline For Irrigation

Smith & Nephew Secura Moisturizing Antimicrobial Skin Cleanser

Anacapa Anasept Antimicrobial Skin And Wound Cleanser

2. Use moisture barrier cream  

Barrier cream for MASD wounds helps keep the moisture in control and protects the skin from exposure to fecal and urinary irritants while keeping the skin moisturized but not too wet. When buying a moisture barrier cream, look for ingredients such as petrolatum, zinc oxide, or polymer films. These thickened skin protectants offer protection from viral or bacterial growth. Petrolatum contains a mix of hydrocarbons that repel the water and leave a greasy residue that prevents skin irritation due to adhesive. Similarly, a zinc oxide-based barrier cream coats and shields the skin from moisture and irritants.  

Medline Remedy Phytoplex Z Guard Skin Protectant Paste

Calmoseptine Moisture Barrier Ointment

Dermarite Periguard Skin Protectant Antimicrobial Ointment

3. Use a wound dressing  

Choose a type of wound dressing that can handle the level of wound exudate. For instance, an injury with minimal exudate will require transparent films or hydrocolloid dressings. Similarly, a moderate to heavy exudate wound exudate will need foam or absorptive dressing. Moreover, change dressings to maintain a clean and dry wound environment.  

Molnlycke Mepilex Border Self-Adherent Foam Dressing

3M Tegaderm Transparent Film Dressing - Picture Frame Style

ConvaTec DuoDERM Extra Thin Dressing

4. Management Your Condition  

Treating a moisture wound is only possible if the underlying condition is managed. If incontinence is the cause of the macerated skin, use incontinence products such as absorbent pads or adult diapers to keep the skin dry and change them regularly to prevent prolonged exposure to moisture.     

Unique Wellness Pull-Up Absorbent Underwear

Torbot Skin-Tac Adhesive Barrier Wipes

TENA Night Super Maximum Absorbency Pads

5. Offload pressure  

People with limited mobility or bedridden are most prone to pressure ulcers that can lead to moisture-associated skin damage. Use coccyx cushions and pressure relief mattresses to minimize pressure on vulnerable areas of the skin.

Nova Medical Coccyx Gel Foam Wheelchair Cushion

Prius Healthcare Enhance DX Mattress System

6. Use NSAID and opioid analgesics  

Pain management is essential to heal skin dermatitis. People who deal with chronic wounds are more prone to dermatitis. Using topical steroids and pain relievers helps keep inflammation and pain in control.   

7. Maintain nutrition  

Proper nutrition plays a vital role in wound healing. Ensure you eat well-balanced and have nutrients such as protein, vitamins, and minerals. Adequate nutrition helps the body repair damaged skin and tissues. Subsequently, make necessary changes in care routines to minimize the chances of further complications.