Perineal Cleanser / Peri Wash

What Is Perineal Cleansing?

Perineal washing is an integral part of personal hygiene and involves cleaning the area between the anus and genitals (the perineum). This area can become irritated due to incontinence, perspiration, or other factors. Regularly cleansing this area helps reduce irritation and discomfort while also helping to prevent infection.

While perineal cleansing is crucial throughout life, it can lead to a vast array of problems for elderly patients and those with a handicap. The main concern that arises from a lack of perineal cleaning is a dermatitis condition that can cause infections and other severe health problems. These concerns increase exponentially for these individuals because they often suffer from compromised immune systems as well.

What Is Peri Wash Used For?

Incontinence can cause distress for those facing the harsh realities of this condition daily. This is especially true since it can lead to inflammation and incontinent-associated dermatitis (IAD). It is worth noting that contrary to popular belief, IAD isn’t only caused by exposure to urine and fecal matter; there are also heightened concerns about the build-up of sweat, debris, dirt, and oils.

Although IAD is prevalent in the medical field, especially in long-term care facilities, it doesn’t have to be. Using a peri cleanser to wash the perineum can significantly help reduce the symptoms associated with this form of dermatitis in existing cases and help keep the skin clean so it doesn’t occur in the future.

Where Do IAD and Other Perineal Concerns Occur the Most?

Any skin that is exposed to urine, fecal matter, excessive sweat, or the associated fumes runs the risk of being affected. Therefore, to avoid IAD and other related concerns, the most prominent places where an effective perineal wash or perineum spray should be used is, as the name would suggest, on the perineum.

The perineum is the area of the skin between the anus and the scrotum in men or the anus and the vagina in women. A perineal cleaner can be effectively used in the following areas of the body:

• Labial folds
• The groin area, testicular skin folds
• The penile area (especially if the male is uncircumcised)
• A person’s buttocks and upper thighs
• Any skin folds in the areas mentioned above

Perineal wash for incontinence cleansing is proven effective in cleaning the female perineal area and the male penile area as well.

Benefits of Using Perineal Cleansers

As mentioned, using a perineal and skin cleanser regularly can help keep skin healthy by removing dirt, sweat, bacteria, and other irritants from the area between your anus and genitals (the perineum). Regularly cleansing this area helps reduce irritation and discomfort while also helping to prevent infection. 

Additionally, using a peri wash spray or another alcohol-free product helps keep your skin hydrated while providing adequate cleansing power. Some of the benefits of using peri cleansers include:

• It can be used to help treat and prevent diaper rash
• It can help to clean things such as smegma, bacteria, and fungi
• It can be used for treating and preventing moisture lesions
• It can be used for cleaning bedsores (don’t forget to get a bedsore mattress topper if you don’t have one yet!) and helping to maintain skincare for prevention
• It can help to treat incontinence-associated dermatitis (IAD)

Types of Perineal Cleansers

There are several types of perineal cleansers available on the market today. Each different type can be used in different scenarios and settings, and many of them are commonly used in both home and medical applications.

Liquid Perineal Wash

The most common type of perineal cleanser is liquid or foam, applied directly to the skin with a cloth or sponge. These products are typically alcohol-free and contain ingredients such as aloe vera, chamomile, and other natural ingredients that help soothe and protect the skin.

Perineum Sprays

Another commonly used cleanser is a peri spray or aerosol product that can be used without water. Much like the more traditional peri wash liquid cleanser, these products are often alcohol-free and contain ingredients to help soothe and protect the skin, including aloe vera, chamomile, and other natural ingredients. 

The Convatec Aloe Vesta Perineal Skin Cleanser is an excellent example of these no-rinse spray formulas that contain natural botanicals to help provide a pH-balancing solution. A perineum spray offers users convenience as it does not require access to running water for usage.

Peri Wash Wipes

Lastly, peri wash wipes are also available that are designed explicitly for perineal cleansing. These perineal wipes are pre-moistened with a gentle cleansing solution that helps remove dirt, sweat, and bacteria from the skin without irritation. The wipes are easy to use and, much like a perineal cleanser spray, can be used in any location without access to running water.

Choosing a Perineal Cleanser

When choosing a perineal cleanser for yourself or someone else, it’s essential to consider several factors, including skin type, lifestyle needs, and budget constraints.

Skin Type

If your skin is easily irritated, you may opt for an alcohol-free product containing aloe vera and natural ingredients like those explicitly designed for sensitive skin. Or, you may opt for a no-rinse spray foam that won’t irritate your skin further. 

Lifestyle Needs

Athletes, campers, military members, and those who travel frequently can benefit from using perineal care products because they may find that they lack the time necessary to shower as often as needed to maintain optimal health. 

Products that provide ease of use, including a perineal cleanser spray or wipe, may be an ideal option for those who find themselves constantly on the go. No-rinse spray formulas are available that are gentle enough for all ages.

Another consideration is whether the patient is bedridden; if they are, a spray or no-rinse option would help avoid the need for running water or difficult position changes.

Budget Constraints

If you don’t have concerns about sensitive skin or usability and you are looking for a more cost-effective solution, you may want to opt for a bulk peri wash option. Check to see what type of large-volume products are available.

Frequently Asked Questions

When it comes to choosing the right product for your needs, there are many questions that come up along the way. Here are some of the most commonly asked questions about using a perineal cleanser.

What is the best way to cleanse my female perineum?

The best way to cleanse your female perineum is with an alcohol-free product such as a no-rinse peri wash spray that won’t irritate your skin further. Additionally, using wipes specifically designed for this purpose can also be helpful in carefully removing dirt, sweat, and bacteria from this sensitive area.

Are the elderly and handicapped the only people who need to use perineal care products?

No. Our perineal care products aren’t just for those suffering from incontinence or other related health concerns. While washing and showering can help to reduce many of the concerns associated with IAD, people of all ages may have perineal skin problems that occur at any time in their lives. Perineal skin care products can be purchased and used by anyone.

How often should I use a peri wash?

You should use a peri wash at least once daily to keep your skin healthy by removing dirt, sweat, and bacteria from this area. Additionally, if you suffer from incontinence, it is recommended that you use these products more frequently in order to keep this sensitive area clean and free from infection-causing bacteria.

Are there any special considerations when using a perineal skin cleanser?

Yes. When using any type of perineal product, it’s important to follow all instructions carefully in order to ensure optimal results with minimal irritation or discomfort. Overuse of these products on sensitive areas, such as around the anus or genitals, may have counterintuitive results.

Additionally, it’s equally important to avoid using too much pressure when applying these products, as this could cause further irritation or discomfort in these areas and potentially damage delicate tissue if done incorrectly.

Where to Find the Best Perineal Cleanser Options 

Browse AvaCare Medical’s huge selection of perineal skin care for some of the most advanced perineal cleanser options on the market. Choose from peri cleansers, sprays, and all other types of medical washes and supplies. Choosing the right products is easy when shopping at AvaCare Medical.

Give us a call today so we can assist you with your order. Our friendly and knowledgeable customer care representatives can aid you in purchasing the perineal cleanser you need – whether you’re in the medical field, a home caregiver, or a family member.

Simply dial our customer care team at 1.877.813.7799, contact us on our website, or chat with a representative during business hours.