Abstract: A skin preparation offering protection against a variety of irritants (including allergens) is prepared from an oil-in-water emulsion of the cationic type, with a fatty acid mono-ester or di-ester of triethanolamine, or a fatty acid amide of hydroxyethyl-ethylenediamine, as the cation and active barrier ingredient. The resulting emulsion binds strongly to the skin through electrostatic bonding and forms an invisible yet effective barrier that isolates the skin from adversely charged irritants, small organic compounds, irritants of high molecular weight, and irritants of alkaline pH. The skin preparation may incorporate additional active agents, such as sunscreens, antibiotics and other therapeutics, for application of these agents to the skin.