Wound Care Certification Practice Exam 2026 – Complete Prep Guide

The perineal area is particularly sensitive, and excoriation, which refers to the rubbing or scraping off of the skin, can occur for several reasons. In this case, scratching is indeed a common cause of excoriation in this region.

When an individual experiences irritation, discomfort, or itching in the perineal area, they may instinctively scratch the area. This friction from scratching can strip away the delicate layers of skin, leading to excoriation. Moreover, scratching often occurs in response to conditions like rashes, infections, or irritations, which can exacerbate the cycle of damage.

Other factors can contribute to skin breakdown in the perineal area, such as infection, friction from clothing or movement, and moisture from sweat or incontinence. However, the act of scratching directly results in skin damage and is frequently seen as a primary cause of excoriation in this sensitive area.