Abstract: An absorbent article includes a fluid permeable topsheet, a fluid impermeable backsheet, and a hygroscopic treatment. The hygroscopic treatment is protected from liquid contact under conditions of use and acts to reduce the water vapor present in the absorbent article environment, thereby reducing the relative humidity in the article. As a result, the article exhibits substantially reduced levels of hydration of the wearer's skin when in use which renders the skin less susceptible to the viability of microorganisms. The absorbent article may also include a ventilation layer between the absorbent body and the backsheet and/or a surge management layer between the absorbent body and the topsheet.