From incontinence care to protecting delicate skin, barrier creams can help reduce friction and create a layer that keeps moisture out.
But with many creams to choose from, knowing which is suitable for your parent’s skin type or situation can be difficult. We've looked at various widely used options with a mix of textures, ingredients and features that may be useful in different care settings.
Some links below may be affiliate links. If you buy through them, we may earn a small commission, helping to keep Carents free to use. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
If you’ve found a product that’s made a real difference to your parent, we’d love to hear about it. Please get in touch at hello@carents.co.uk and help us share with others in the Carents community.
1. Bepanthen Nappy Care Ointment – 100g
Originally developed for baby care, Bepanthen is also widely used by carers for elderly skin. It contains Provitamin B5, which supports natural skin recovery while providing a breathable, protective layer. Its gentle formulation makes it suitable for regular use on sensitive areas.
Pros:
✔️ Fragrance- and preservative-free – Suitable for sensitive or fragile skin
✔️ Supports natural healing – Contains Provitamin B5
✔️ Breathable layer – Protects without clogging skin
✔️ Non-sticky – Easy to spread, even in small amounts
Cons:
❌ Slightly greasy finish – May not be ideal under some clothing
❌ Smaller tube – Might not last long with daily use
🏆 Best for: Gentle daily protection for sensitive or sore skin
2. Cavilon No Sting Barrier Film Spray – 28ml
This hospital-grade spray by 3M is designed for skin that can’t tolerate much touching. It forms a clear, breathable barrier in seconds and is especially helpful in areas exposed to moisture or dressings. The no-sting formula makes it well suited for sore or broken skin.
Pros:
✔️ No-rub application – Great for tender or inflamed areas
✔️ Dries quickly – Leaves a waterproof, breathable film
✔️ Long-lasting – Can stay in place up to 72 hours
✔️ Alcohol-free – No sting during application
Cons:
❌ Spray nozzle may be difficult for those with limited hand strength
❌ More expensive than cream-based options
🏆 Best for: Severe sensitivity or broken skin where touch needs to be minimised
3. Sudocrem Antiseptic Healing Cream – 125g
A staple in many households, Sudocrem combines antiseptic healing with moisture protection. It’s commonly used to treat minor skin irritations, including pressure sores, incontinence rash, and grazes. The thick consistency means a little goes a long way.
Pros:
✔️ Multi-purpose – Offers protection and antiseptic healing
✔️ Long-lasting barrier – Thick texture helps it stay put
✔️ Trusted brand – Familiar and widely available
✔️ Effective on a range of minor skin issues
Cons:
❌ Contains lanolin and benzyl alcohol – May not suit all sensitivities
❌ Can be tricky to spread over large or delicate areas
🏆 Best for: Combination protection and healing of minor skin damage
4. Metanium Everyday Barrier Ointment – 40g
Metanium’s gentle formula is designed to prevent irritation caused by moisture. Although marketed for baby skin, it’s become a popular option for elderly care due to its simple, fragrance-free formulation and smooth texture.
Pros:
✔️ Fragrance- and lanolin-free – Low risk of reaction
✔️ Smooth and non-greasy – Easier to apply than heavier creams
✔️ Forms a light, protective layer – Doesn’t trap moisture
✔️ Good for preventative daily use
Cons:
❌ No antiseptic ingredients – Not for healing existing sores
❌ Smaller tube – May not last long if used regularly on larger areas
🏆 Best for: Preventing moisture-related irritation with minimal ingredients
5. Drapolene Cream – 350g
Drapolene is often used in care homes and hospitals for incontinence-related skin care. It provides both moisture protection and mild antiseptic properties, helping to reduce redness and discomfort. The cream is lightly scented but generally well tolerated.
Pros:
✔️ Antiseptic formula – Helps prevent bacterial irritation
✔️ Large tub – Good value for regular, large-area use
✔️ Easily absorbed – Not too thick or greasy
✔️ Subtle scent – Pleasant without being overpowering
Cons:
❌ Contains fragrance – May not suit extremely sensitive skin
❌ Not suitable for open wounds
🏆 Best for: Regular incontinence care with mild antiseptic benefits
Which Barrier Cream is Right for Your Parent?
Each product in this guide supports skin care in slightly different ways:
🧴 For Sensitive or Sore Skin: Bepanthen – Gentle and breathable, ideal for fragile skin
🧪 For Non-Contact Protection: Cavilon Spray – No-touch application for broken or painful areas
🩹 For Minor Wounds and Rashes: Sudocrem – Combines antiseptic with strong barrier protection
🧼 For Simple Daily Prevention: Metanium – Lightweight and suitable for regular use
🏥 For Incontinence-Related Care: Drapolene – Offers bulk protection with added antiseptic support
Choosing the right cream can help reduce discomfort and support healthier skin. The right option depends on whether you're preventing moisture damage or treating an existing issue.
Have you found a barrier cream that’s really worked for your elderly parent? We’d love to hear about it. Share your experience at hello@carents.co.uk – it could help other carers choose with more confidence.
Stay in touch with The Carents Room
Stay informed and supported on your carenting journey with our newsletter, designed to provide you with:
- Practical Tips: Get expert advice and useful tips to help you navigate the challenges of caring for your elderly relatives.
- Latest Updates: Stay up-to-date with the latest news, research, and developments in health and care services.
- Community Insights: Hear from fellow carents, sharing their experiences and stories to support you.
- Exclusive Resources: Access special content and resources designed to make your role as a carer easier and more effective.
Join our community today and make carenting a smoother, more informed experience. Simply enter your email below to start receiving our carefully curated content straight to your inbox.
This article may contain affiliate links. If you choose to make a purchase via these links, we may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. We may also receive compensation from partners for featuring their products, which supports the continued running of Carents.co.uk and our services at no cost to users. We only suggest products we genuinely believe may help. Carents accepts no responsibility for the quality, safety, or suitability of any third-party products. If you choose to make a purchase you do so at your own risk.Got a product to recommend? Email us at hello@carents.co.uk.