The Use of Barrier Cream Cloths that Cleanse, Moisturize, and Protect for the Management of Neonatal Skin

Proper maintenance of normal moisture levels is vital to sustain the natural skin barrier and to prevent drying and inflammation. Unfortunately, this balance is often disrupted due to incontinence, and the patient suffers from skin breakdown. Neonatal patients have cleansing needs that require the repetitive use of bathing and cleansing products because the chemical irritant associated with incontinence can be very caustic to the skin and result in denudation, excoriation, pain and discomfort as perineal care is delivered. The perineal areas may be particularly prone to skin damage, usually presenting as erythema in various degrees. New nutrient containing dimethicone 3-in-1 barrier cream cloths cleanse, moisturize, nourish and protect the skin. These barrier cream cloths are pH balanced, non-sensitizing, dermatologist tested, and paraben free. The purpose of this case series was to evaluate the use of nutrient containing dimethicone 3-in-1 barrier cream cloths for the cleansing, moisturization, and protection of neonatal skin.

                In this case series, a convenience sample of 15 neonatal patients who required frequent cleansing were selected, at clinician discretion. The nutrient containing dimethicone 3-in-1 barrier cream cloths were utilized, per the instructions for use. The perineal skin was monitored for any signs of irritation, including erythema and dryness.

The nutrient containing dimethicone 3-in-1 barrier cream cloths provided an easy all in one tool for incontinence management. The barrier cream cloths effectively cleansed the skin to prevent breakdown associated with caustic fluids. They simultaneously moisturized and protected the skin with a dimethicone barrier.