EXPLAINED: Barrier Products

Barrier products, such as skin barrier films, are designed to protect the skin by minimising its exposure to excessive moisture and irritants. These may be topical preparations (available in a spray, foam applicator or wipe format) that can be applied to the skin without stinging, and dry quickly to create a breathable and transparent film. They provide a protective water-repellent barrier against irritants and harmful bodily substances, such as urine and faeces … Barrier films will not affect dressing application and are simple for both healthcare providers and patients/carers to use. Sterile products are particularly useful as they can be used on both intact and injured skin and are recommended for use in patients with a high risk of infection … read more