How to manage Moisture-Associated Skin Damage (MASD) with Barrier Cream and Barrier Film

It’s important for healthcare professionals and patients alike to be aware of moisture-associated skin damage (MASD). This can occur when the skin is exposed to moisture for long periods of time. That moisture can be from a great many sources (sweat, urine, saliva, wounds, etc) and can lead to a variety of problems like skin irritation, breakdown and infection. 

Below, we discuss how MASD can be managed and prevented with barrier cream and barrier film, specifically Medi Derma-S range.

How to help patients prevent MASD

There are a few ways to prevent and manage MASD. One is by using barrier cream or film. 

Barrier cream helps to protect the skin from moisture and other irritants, suitable for prevention and for mild MASD. Barrier film on the other hand is indicated for moderate levels of MASD, to protect the skin from moisture and other irritants, and it is available in various application formats.

Barrier Cream for MASD

Medi Derma-S Barrier Cream provides gentle barrier protection on intact skin or for mildly damaged skin. By creating a resilient and protective waterproof barrier, the cream works to prevent irritation from bodily fluids, adhesive products and friction. The cream is suitable for use underneath incontinence pads, as it does not block absorption. It is also suitable for use in paediatric patients.

When using barrier cream to treat MASD, it is important to apply the cream to the affected area and then cover the area with a bandage or other type of dressing. The barrier cream will create a barrier between the skin and the moisture, which will help to prevent irritation and breakdown.

Barrier Film for MASD

Medi Derma-S Barrier Film is also an effective way to manage and treat moderate MASD. This resilient and hydrophobic protective barrier provides protection from moisture-associated skin damage for up to 72 hours. With its non-sting formula, it is suitable for both damaged and intact skin; it does not impede the adhesion of dressings, pouches or adhesive devices, and prevents and minimises associated pain.

Quick and easy to use, the film is available in various formats ie applicators (1ml & 3ml) pump spray, aerosol and wipes.

Whether you are using barrier cream or barrier film, it is important to make sure that the product covers the affected area completely. In addition, it is important to change the dressing or film regularly to prevent irritation and infection.

What is the difference between barrier cream and barrier film?

Barrier cream is such that it has a smooth, thick consistency, and is used for prevention and for mild moisture-associated skin damage. The barrier film is a thin, translucent layer that is indicated for moderate moisture-associated skin damage in wound care, continence care and in stoma care.

Assessing the severity of your patient’s MASD using the S.M.A.R.T. (Skin Moisture Alert Reporting Tool) resource will support you to diagnose the level of skin damage, so that you can decide whether a barrier cream or a barrier film is more suitable.

What is the difference between barrier cream and barrier film?

Barrier cream is such that it has a smooth, thick consistency, and is used for prevention and for mild moisture-associated skin damage. The barrier film is a thin, translucent layer that is indicated for moderate moisture-associated skin damage in wound care, continence care and in stoma care.

Assessing the severity of your patient’s MASD using the S.M.A.R.T. (Skin Moisture Alert Reporting Tool) resource will support you to diagnose the level of skin damage, so that you can decide whether a barrier cream or a barrier film is more suitable.

Protecting patients from MASD

Of course, keeping a patient’s skin dry is important to prevent MASD. If advising them on the best homecare practices, it’s recommended that patients with MASD avoid harsh soaps and detergents. 

If you are a healthcare professional, a community nurse, or a care home staff, it is important to be aware of moisture-associated skin damage and how it can be managed and prevented. By using barrier cream or film, you can help to protect your patients’ skin from MASD.

Do you have any questions about MASD or how to manage it? Leave a comment below or contact us today! We would be happy to help you get the information you need.

At Medicareplus International, we are committed to helping you protect your patient’s skin. Visit our website or contact us today to learn more about our products and how we can support you in preventing MASD.