About Barrier Creams and Skin Protectants
Barrier creams and skin protectants form a layer on the skin's surface that is designed to shield it from moisture, friction and irritants. They are commonly used in incontinence care, around ostomy and tube sites, under adhesives, and on skin exposed to repeated washing. This collection is part of Skin & Personal Care and includes products from Medline, Dynarex and 3M.
Form is the main choice, and each form behaves differently:
- Creams and ointments are spread by hand and range from light, breathable creams to thick zinc oxide or petrolatum pastes.
- Barrier films come as sprays, wands or wipes and dry to a thin, clear coating that adhesive tapes and dressings can stick to.
- Powders and sprays suit areas that are hard to reach or where a no-touch application is preferred.
Size is the tube, jar, bottle or packet volume. Single-use packets suit care facilities and travel, while larger tubes and jars suit daily home use. When restocking, compare the REF number on your current tube or box, the form and the container size, since the same product line often comes in several sizes.
Frequently asked questions
Should I use a barrier cream or a barrier film?
Creams and ointments leave a visible protective layer and are commonly used in incontinence care. Barrier films dry to a thin, clear coating that tapes and dressings can adhere over, which makes them common under adhesives and around ostomy or tube sites. If you have a care plan, follow what your clinician specifies.
Are barrier creams covered by insurance?
Some skin protectants have HCPCS codes, and where one applies it is shown on the product page for reference. Many barrier creams are paid for directly. Coverage depends on your payer and plan, and ArmadaMeds is a retailer that does not bill insurance or promise reimbursement, so check with your plan if needed.
How do I reorder the same barrier product?
Find the REF or item number on your tube, jar or box and search for it here. Each container size is a separate listing, and many products are sold individually, by the box and by the case. Confirm the form and size on the listing before ordering.