Barrier creams are used to inhibit contact with which substances?

Barrier creams are used to inhibit contact with which substances?

• A. Solvents
• B. Acids
• C. Oils
• D. Dusts

Answer: (A)

Barrier creams work by forming a protective film on the skin that slows or reduces the penetration of chemicals. They are particularly useful for preventing skin contact with liquids that readily dissolve skin lipids and absorb quickly, such as solvents. This makes solvents the best answer here because barrier creams are specifically aimed at reducing dermal absorption of these liquid, penetrative chemicals. In practice, you apply the cream to clean, dry skin and let it dry so it forms that barrier; it should be used in conjunction with proper PPE like gloves, not as a sole defense. Barrier creams aren’t a reliable shield against all types of exposure—for example, powders or dusts, strong acids, or highly abrasive solids—so other controls (engineering controls, personal protective equipment, and safe work practices) are still essential.

Barrier creams work by forming a protective film on the skin that slows or reduces the penetration of chemicals. They are particularly useful for preventing skin contact with liquids that readily dissolve skin lipids and absorb quickly, such as solvents. This makes solvents the best answer here because barrier creams are specifically aimed at reducing dermal absorption of these liquid, penetrative chemicals.

In practice, you apply the cream to clean, dry skin and let it dry so it forms that barrier; it should be used in conjunction with proper PPE like gloves, not as a sole defense. Barrier creams aren’t a reliable shield against all types of exposure—for example, powders or dusts, strong acids, or highly abrasive solids—so other controls (engineering controls, personal protective equipment, and safe work practices) are still essential.