About Skin and Personal Care Products
Skin and personal care products are the everyday items used for bathing, hygiene and skin protection, especially for people who spend long hours in bed or in a chair. This category includes four collections: antiseptics and sanitizers, cleansers and perineal care, barrier creams and skin protectants, and skin therapy and personal care.
The products in each collection are distinguished mainly by form and use. Cleansers come as no-rinse sprays, foams, washcloths and liquid soaps, and are designed for use when a full shower is not practical. Barrier creams and ointments are applied after cleansing and are listed by their protectant ingredient, such as zinc oxide, dimethicone or petrolatum. Antiseptics and sanitizers vary by active ingredient and format, from wipes and swabsticks to gels and pump bottles. Personal care covers lotions, moisturizers, shampoos and oral care items.
When comparing, look at the volume, the form, and the active ingredient on the label, and check whether it is fragrance-free if that matters to the user. Recording the item number from your current bottle or package makes reordering straightforward.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between perineal cleansers and barrier creams?
Perineal cleansers are used first to wash the skin, often without rinsing, after an incontinence episode or during bathing. Barrier creams and skin protectants are applied afterward to leave a layer over the skin that repels moisture. Many care routines use both, and some products combine the two steps in a single cloth.
Are skin care products covered by insurance, and do they have HCPCS codes?
A few skin care items have HCPCS codes, and any code shown on a product page is for reference only. Most cleansers, creams and personal care products are not billed to insurance. Coverage depends on your payer and plan, so check with your plan if you expect reimbursement.
How do I reorder the same cleanser or cream?
Look for the item or REF number on the bottle or tube, and note the volume and form, such as spray, foam or wipe. Search that number here. Many products are sold individually and by the case of 12 or more, so check which one the listing represents before ordering.