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Maintaining healthy peristomal skin

Stoma output can be harmful to the skin around your stoma (peristomal skin). When urine or feces come into contact with your skin, they can irritate your skin. The skin barrier (in the case of a two-piece ostomy system) or the adhesive (in the case of a one-piece ostomy system) is essential in preventing and managing peristomal skin damage. The skin barrier connects the pouch to your abdomen and protects sensitive peristomal skin from stoma output.

On our two-piece systems, ConvaTec offers two skin barrier options:

• Traditional Stomahesive^® skin barriers are gentle on peristomal skin and are designed for standard wear. Stomahesive^® barriers are best for managing a colostomy.
• Extended wear Durahesive^® skin barriers are very effective in protecting against highly irritating stoma output. Durahesive^® barriers are recommended for use with an ileostomy or urostomy.

ConvaTec one-piece systems feature a thin, flexible adhesive designed to protect your skin and allow for more frequent pouching system changes.

Proper fit of the skin barrier around the stoma is also critical in preventing peristomal skin problems.

Adhesive rebounds to gently hug stoma upon application	Adhesive's elastic materials allow the barrier to expand and contract during wear

To address this issue, ConvaTec offers a special moldable skin barrier designed to hug the contours of your stoma and eliminate gaps. ConvaTec Moldable Technology™ skin barriers provide a snug fit that may help minimize the likelihood of developing peristomal skin problems.

WHY IS IT IMPORTANT TO MAINTAIN HEALTHY SKIN?

The peristomal skin is where the pouching system is placed. If your skin is damaged, it becomes harder for the skin barrier to adhere to your skin. When you apply the skin barrier, it’s important to make sure your skin is intact and dry. This will ensure the pouching system stays in place between changes. It’s also important to remember that living with a peristomal skin complication can affect your daily comfort and quality of life. Remember, prevention is the key to maintaining healthy peristomal skin.

MAKE SURE YOU KNOW WHAT YOUR HEALTHY SKIN LOOKS LIKE

Skin should be intact and healthy. You should make note of how your skin looks when it’s healthy. Peristomal skin should look similar to the skin on the other side of the abdomen (i.e., intact, non-irritated). Once you know what your skin looks like normally, you can watch for signs of possible skin disorders.

YOU’RE NOT ALONE

Having a peristomal skin complication is one of the most common reasons people living with a stoma seek medical attention. If you are worried that you may have a peristomal skin complication, do not hesitate to contact your healthcare professional as soon as possible.

• Your best defense is preventative care