- Bacteria from stool may become lodged in the folds around the rectum. Cleanse the area at least once daily with a mild soap and warm water. Clean the area after every bowel movement with water on a cloth, toilet paper, cotton balls or use an unscented baby wipe. Be sure to dry the area thoroughly after cleaning.
- Natural oils protect the skin around the anus. Strong soap removes the oils and the resulting dryness may cause rectal itching. Moisturize the area with an unscented lotion, cream or oil to reduce dryness and the associated itch.
- Dry the area thoroughly after bathing. Use unscented powder to absorb dampness. Wear absorbent cotton underwear. Avoid tight-fitting, synthetic clothing such as panty hose.
- Avoid scented soaps, lotions, and creams. Avoid toilet paper with dyes and fragrances. Avoid bubble baths and genital deodorants. The chemicals used in the dyes and fragrances can irritate the skin. When using pre-moistened towelettes to cleanse the area, use unscented products.
- Take a warm sitz bath two to three times a day and dry the area thoroughly after each one. Avoid acidic foods such as coffee, tea, spicy foods and excessive amounts of vitamin C. Take a bath with a colloidal oatmeal treatment. Make the colloidal oatmeal by pouring one cup of dry oatmeal into a blender and blend until it becomes a fine powder. Pour this powder into warm bath water and stir until it dissolves.
