Yes, adults get diaper rash. Doctors call it incontinence-associated dermatitis. It shows up where skin stays damp under protective underwear, briefs, or pads, and it usually clears with three steps: clean, dry, protect.
Educational only, not medical advice.
What diaper rash in adults looks like
- Pink or red skin where the product touches
- Soreness, burning, or itching
- Raw or peeling patches
- Small raised bumps in worse cases
What causes it
- Wetness that sits. Urine or stool left on skin breaks it down. Stool is especially irritating.
- Rubbing. A product that is too tight, or a pad that shifts, chafes damp skin. Our size chart helps you check the fit.
- Yeast. Warm, damp folds let yeast grow. A bright red rash with small spots at the edges is a common sign.
Can adults get diaper rash from pads? Yes. A pad that stays wet or slides around can cause the same rash. Change it once it feels damp.
How to treat adult diaper rash
- Clean gently. Use warm water and mild soap, or a no-rinse cleanser. Skip rubbing.
- Dry fully. Pat dry and give the skin a few minutes of air before a fresh product goes on.
- Protect. Spread a thin layer of barrier cream with zinc oxide. It helps seal out moisture.
Can an adult use diaper rash cream? Yes. Look for zinc oxide on the label. Ours is made for skin under protective underwear all day.
Zinc oxide and vitamin E. Paraben-free, light lotion texture. 3 fl oz.
From $14.79
Choose pack
Aloe vera and lanolin. Alcohol-free, latex-free, pH balanced.
From $1.19
Choose pack
Cleans and soothes in one step. No rinsing. 6 fl oz.
From $11.39
Choose packHow to prevent it
- Change soon after a leak, and right away after a bowel accident.
- Make clean, dry, protect part of every change.
- Pick the right absorbency so a product is not worn full. At night, an overnight style holds more.
When to call a doctor
Call if the rash does not improve after a few days of care, if skin is open or bleeding, or if you see pus, a fever, or a rash that keeps coming back. Yeast and bacterial rashes may need a prescription cream.
Find a better fit
A product that fits well and holds enough is half of prevention. Browse women’s incontinence underwear or men’s incontinence underwear. For more, see our incontinence skin care routine.
Last updated: November 7, 2026.