Here are 5 of the most frequently asked questions (FAQs) compiled from user queries for the 3M Cavilon No Sting Barrier Film 28ml Pump Spray Bottle (3346E).

1. Can Cavilon No Sting Barrier Film be applied to broken or raw skin?

Yes. Because it is completely alcohol-free, it will not sting or burn even when applied to excoriated (scraped/raw) or damaged skin. It is also non-cytotoxic, meaning it will not damage healthy tissue or interfere with natural wound healing. However, note that if the skin is actively bleeding or heavily "weeping" (fluid draining), the film may struggle to adhere properly.

2. How long does the protection last, and how often should I reapply it?

Under normal conditions (such as routine incontinence care or friction protection), it provides clinically proven protection for up to 72 hours (3 days).

• For regular skin protection: Reapply every 2 to 3 days.

• For adhesive/stoma care: If you are using it under medical tapes, wound dressings, or ostomy pouches, the barrier film is stripped away whenever the adhesive is removed. Therefore, you must reapply it after every dressing or appliance change.

3. Do I need to remove the film before applying a new layer?

No, removal is not necessary. The film naturally wears off over time. Trying to vigorously scrub it off can actually cause the skin damage you are trying to prevent. If you have an accumulation of layers (which might start to look like white, flaky scaling), it is entirely harmless. If you absolutely must remove it, use a dedicated gentle medical adhesive remover.

4. Can I use lotions, creams, or ointments under or over the film?

No. It is highly recommended to avoid mixing Cavilon Barrier Film with traditional moisturizing creams, lotions, or zinc-based pastes. Traditional ointments create a greasy barrier that prevents the Cavilon liquid from adhering to the skin, drastically reducing its effectiveness. Conversely, applying a cream over the film can dissolve or compromise the protective seal.

5. Are there any critical safety warnings regarding flammability?

Yes, this is highly important. While liquid in the bottle, the solvent used to disperse the film (hexamethyldisiloxane) is highly flammable.

• The Rule: You must allow the spray to dry completely on the skin for a minimum of 30 to 90 seconds before coming near any ignition sources.

• Clinical Caution: If used in medical procedures involving heat-producing devices or electrocautery, you must wait at least 90 full seconds to ensure all vapors have fully dissipated. If you can still smell the product, it is not dry.