A method can include extruding polyethylene about a lead (Pb) barrier layer disposed about a conductor to form an assembly; and armoring at least one of the assemblies with metallic armor to form a cable. A power cable can include a conductor; a lead (Pb) barrier layer disposed about the conductor; a cushion layer disposed about the lead (Pb) barrier layer where the cushion layer includes crosslinked polyethylene (XLPE); and metallic armor wrapped about the cushion layer.