What Is a Skin-Prep Pad Used For?

Forms a protective barrier between skin and adhesives, tapes, or ostomy appliances Reduces skin stripping, irritation, and medical adhesive-related injuries Preps skin before applying wound dressings, catheters, IVs, or ostomy bags Creates a longer-lasting, hypoallergenic stick for secure dressing/stoma care

What Is the Purpose of Skin-Prep?

The main purpose is to protect fragile or sensitive skin from breakdown, irritation, moisture, and friction associated with repeated use of adhesives, dressings, and medical devices.

Are Skin-Prep and Skin Barrier the Same Thing?

Skin prep pads and skin barrier films are similar, often used interchangeably. Skin prep is a type of skin barrier—usually a liquid solution or wipe that dries to form a protective film (examples: Smith & Nephew Skin-Prep, 3M Cavilon).

Where to Apply Skin-Prep?

Directly to clean, dry skin where you’ll place adhesives, tapes, ostomy appliances, or dressings. Around stoma sites, under tapes, or on pressure-prone areas.

How to Use Prep Pads?

Clean and dry the skin. Open the pad and gently apply a thin, even layer to the area where medical adhesive will be placed. Allow to air dry (usually for 30 seconds to 1 minute) until skin feels smooth and non-tacky. After it’s dry, apply dressing, tape, or device as usual.

When Should You Not Use Skin-Prep?

Avoid use on open wounds, deep cuts, burns, or broken/infected skin (unless specifically indicated by a healthcare provider). Not suitable for patients with a known allergy to ingredients in the prep pad.

Can You Put Skin Prep on an Open Wound?

No—skin prep pads are for intact skin only, and should NOT be used directly on open wounds unless directed by a wound care specialist.

What Do Surgeons Put on Skin Before Cutting?

Surgical prep solutions (chlorhexidine, povidone-iodine) are used before incisions for infection control. Skin-prep pads are for barrier protection, not primary antimicrobial surgical prep.

What Is the Best Skin Prep?

Alcohol-based preps for general use (Smith & Nephew Skin-Prep, 3M Cavilon No Sting) Non-alcohol, sensitive skin preps for fragile skin or pediatrics The best prep matches the patient’s needs and the adhesive/device being used.

Why Does the Skin Around My Stoma Burn?

Skin irritation/“burn” happens when adhesives, leakage, or moisture damage skin. A quality skin prep can help prevent this by providing a protective barrier. Consult your stoma nurse for persistent burning or rash.

Why Is Skin Prep So Important?

Maintains skin integrity, prevents medical adhesive–related injuries (MARSI), increases dressing/device adherence, and reduces long-term skin complications during ongoing medical care.

What Can You Use Instead of Skin Prep?

Petroleum jelly/ointment (for non-adhesive needs) Silicone barrier sprays or wipes (for sensitive skin) Powder + protective barrier wipes (for moist or fragile skin, especially in ostomy care) Always consult with a wound/ostomy care nurse before substituting.

How to Remove Skin Prep from Skin?

Gently wipe with warm, soapy water or a medical adhesive remover wipe if the barrier is thick or sticky. Avoid scrubbing—soak and pat gently until residue lifts.

Key Features & Benefits

Long-lasting, waterproof, protective barrier Hypoallergenic for all skin types Reduces risk of skin breakdown, stripping, and irritation Ideal for wound, IV, ostomy, and dressing changes Individually sealed, sterile prep pads for convenience and hygiene

Skin Prep Pads

Shop top-rated Skin Prep Pads for superior pre-injection, wound care, and surgical site cleansing. Trusted by hospitals, clinics, and home health providers, these FDA-approved, sterile pads ensure infection prevention, optimal skin antisepsis, and patient safety. Ideal for blood draws, catheter insertions, and diabetes care, Skin Prep Pads offer fast-acting antibacterial protection and gentle, irritation-free use. Order Skin Prep Pads online for reliable quality, effective cleansing, and fast shipping.

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Skin Prep Pads Protective Wipes 50/Box
Smith & Nephew

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Skin Prep Wipes by Smith & Nephew are a must-have addition to any medical team's supplies in helping create a barrier between intact skin and a...
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Skin Prep Pads Protective Wipes 50/Box

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