Barrier cream is a skin care product that forms a layer on the skin to protect against irritation. This layer also prevents water loss that can lead to dry skin. Barrier creams are also available in the form of pastes and ointments.
Barrier creams differ from normal lotions in that they shield the skin rather than simply moisturizing it. They often contain ingredients like dimethicone, zinc oxide, and petroleum. Barrier cream is an important part of skin care for a variety of situations. It is helpful for people with urinary or fecal incontinence whose skin frequently comes into contact with irritants. Barrier cream is also ideal to use in skin folds where moisture can accumulate. Patients who are confined to bed are at risk of pressure sores. Skin barrier cream helps prevent skin breakdown that can lead to pressure sores.