What is the effect of maceration on skin?

Maceration refers to the softening and breaking down of skin tissue as a result of continuous exposure to moisture. This condition occurs when the skin is kept too wet for an extended period, leading to increased permeability and potential damage to the skin barrier. When the skin becomes macerated, it loses its structural integrity and can appear white, wrinkled, and swollen.

Maceration makes the skin more vulnerable to injury and infection because the moisture disrupts the skin’s natural protective barrier. This is particularly relevant in wound care, as overly moist environments can hinder healing and promote complications. Understanding the effects of maceration is critical for effective wound management and prevention strategies in nursing practice, particularly for patients with incontinence or those with wounds in moist areas.