Protective Barrier Cream—How Does It Work?
Barrier cream helps the healthy skin barrier maintain its function. The expected benefits are hydration and nourishment.
There are dozens of creams on the market whose main ingredient is glycerol, glycerin, or urea.
Protective barrier creams, on the other hand, work by forming a layer that separates the skin from the external environment. They prevent direct contact between the skin and irritants.
Types of Protective Barrier Creams by Effect
Zinc – for Irritated Skin
Zinc oxide has been used to protect the skin for more than two thousand years. It forms a slightly oily, light-colored film on the skin. Zinc-based creams are suitable for use on covered areas of the body, such as under diapers and bandages. Zinc creams available on the market include Sudocrem, Reha, Uriage, and many others. These creams are suitable for application to already damaged and irritated skin.
Petroleum jelly—for covering wounds
Petrolatum, also known as paraffin, is a petroleum product. It forms a waterproof and oily layer on the skin. Its effectiveness in accelerating wound healing lies in sealing the wound to prevent microbial penetration and drying out. Brands available on the market: Tena, Mediderm cream, Vitar.
Dimethicone—for preventing skin irritation
This silicon-oxygen compound has proven to be very stable and safe. It has also found applications in healthcare. It is used in the manufacture of implants, prostheses, catheters, teats, and creams. Silicone oil is absorbed, leaves no greasy residue, does not wash off, and gradually evaporates. It remains effective for several hours and blocks substances that would otherwise irritate the skin.
A product available on the market is Dermaguard.
