Protectants stops irritation of the perianal area poses a physical barrier on the skin that prevents contact with the irritated skin with aggravating liquid or stool from the rectum. This barrier reduces irritation, itching, pain and burning to a great degree. There are many products that are themselves protectants, or contain a protectants in addition to other medicines.

Protectants include:

Aluminum hydroxide gel

Cocoa Butter

Glycerin

Kaolin

Lanolin

Mineral Oil (Balneol)

White petrolatum

Starch solution

Zinc oxide and Calamine (containing zinc oxide) in concentrations of up to 25%

Cod liver oil or shark liver oil on the amount of vitamin A is 10,000 USP units / day.