Why use skin barriers

Skin barriers are used when skin is vulnerable, exposed to bodily fluids, or repeatedly stressed by dressings and device changes. By creating a transparent, breathable layer, they help protect against moisture associated skin damage and reduce irritation linked to friction or adhesive trauma.

In routine wound, ostomy, and continence care, skin barriers can function as a protective sacrificial layer that helps limit skin stripping during dressing changes or pouch removals.

Adhesives

Typical applications

Skin barriers support healthcare routines where protecting skin and maintaining reliable adhesion are both required:

  • Wound care, including peri wound protection for leg ulcers

  • Stoma and ostomy care, to protect peristomal skin during pouching routines

  • Incontinence care, helping protect skin from exposure to urine and feces

  • Skin contact medical devices, where adhesives are applied and removed repeatedly



Performance benefits

Breathable protection with high MVTR

Skin barriers support microclimate control through breathable protection with high moisture vapor transmission rates. This allows moisture vapor to pass while maintaining a continuous protective film, helping reduce the risk of maceration in wear conditions where moisture, drainage, or friction may compromise skin integrity.

Fast drying, transparent finish

Skin barriers are designed for practical use and consistent site visibility. The film dries quickly to a transparent finish, supporting timely device application and enabling clinicians to maintain visibility of the skin or wound site during routine assessment.

Waterproof, irritant blocking layer

Skin barriers provide waterproof protection against common irritants. The barrier film helps block urine, feces, digestive enzymes, wound exudate, and other external substances, supporting prevention of moisture related skin damage and reducing the impact of chemical irritation in ongoing exposure scenarios.

Long wear protection for 48 to 72 hours

Skin barriers are formulated for extended wear and are designed to provide protection for 48 to 72 hours. This supports consistent care routines and may help reduce the impact of frequent dressing or device changes where repeated adhesive use is necessary.

Reduced adhesive and friction related irritation

By forming a protective base layer, skin barriers help reduce irritation associated with adhesives and mechanical friction. Absorbing part of the stress from repeated application and removal can help limit skin stripping during dressing changes or device removal.

Gentle, protocol aligned options

Skin barriers are available in gentle formulations suitable for structured care protocols. Alcohol free, no sting options help reduce discomfort on application, and CHG compatibility supports use alongside common infection control practices.

Available formats

Film formats

Skin barriers are offered in multiple formats to align with different clinical workflows and anatomical areas. Spray, swab or foam applicator, and wipe formats support efficient application and consistent coverage.

Barrier cream

Barrier cream provides a concentrated alternative, often selected in incontinence care where film application may be less suitable.




Let’s review your care protocol requirements

If you are developing a wound, ostomy, continence, or device securement protocol and aim to protect skin without compromising adhesion, contact us to discuss the appropriate skin barrier format and intended wear time.