Incontinence-Associated Dermatitis (IAD) remains a significant challenge across healthcare settings, affecting patient comfort, skin integrity and quality of life. The recently published Incontinence-Associated Dermatitis: Moving Prevention Forward. Best Practice Update 2026 highlights a clear and consistent message: prevention is key.

This article is brought to you by today's Wound Awareness Week partner, Solventum.

Taking a proactive approach to IAD

The updated guidelines emphasise the importance of early identification of at-risk patients, routine skin assessment and structured skin care protocols to help protect vulnerable skin before damage occurs. By taking a proactive approach, healthcare professionals can reduce the incidence of IAD, minimise complications and support better patient outcomes. 

IAD is caused by prolonged exposure of the skin to urine and/or faeces, leading to inflammation, discomfort and an increased risk of skin breakdown. If left unmanaged, IAD can contribute to secondary infection and may increase the risk of pressure injury development. The guidelines reinforce the role of comprehensive skin care regimens that focus on cleansing, moisturising and protecting the skin to maintain skin integrity and reduce the impact of moisture-associated skin damage (MASD). 

How Solventum supports clinicians

For more than 30 years, Solventum has partnered with clinicians to support skin health through evidence-based solutions designed to help prevent and manage skin damage. The Cavilon™ Skin Care portfolio includes products developed to cleanse, moisturise and protect vulnerable skin, helping clinicians implement preventative skin care strategies with confidence. 

Download the new IAD Best Practice Update 2026 today and learn how evidence-based prevention strategies can help improve patient outcomes. You can also explore how the Cavilon™ Skin Care Solutions range can support your skin care protocols and prevention programs. 

At Solventum, we believe everyone deserves healthy skin. By protecting skin today, we can help prevent wounds tomorrow. 

Sharing knowledge to improve wound care

Solventum is a proud partner of Wound Awareness Week and sponsor of Friday 2 October. Explore more from Solventum on their partner page. Read more about the week.