This topic is all about taking care of the skin between your stoma and the wafer to prevent any damage. Here are some helpful tips and insights shared by others:

- To protect the skin, apply a Cavilon liquid barrier film before attaching the wafer. Use Convatec Natura moldable wafers, leaving a small gap of about 1/8 inch (0.3 cm). The moldable edge will seal around the stoma base, preventing skin injury. It's important to check how well the wafer and stoma fit together, especially if the stoma is uneven.

- Using a lubricating deodorant can help stool slide down the pouch more easily. Be careful not to cut the opening too tight, as this can "choke" the stoma and cause discomfort.

- If you're experiencing persistent leaks, consider trying a barrier film. You might also want to see if Convatec offers moldable wafers with larger openings for bigger stomas.

- If you're dealing with leaks, try requesting free samples from different manufacturers like Convatec, Hollister, and others.

- For skin damage, use a combination of antifungal cream, stoma powder, and a skin-prep wipe to heal any weeping or red skin. It's important to distinguish between harmless darkening from wafer pressure and true irritation.

- Ensure a snug but not too tight seal by placing the barrier ring directly on the skin around the stoma before applying the wafer. Stretch the rings slightly smaller for a snug fit, but avoid over-tightening. For large stomas, cut the wafer larger and fill the edge with paste or an extra sliver of ring.

- Some products mentioned include Convatec Natura moldable flange and drainable pouch, Coloplast Sensura Mio Click wafer, Coloplast paste, and Hollister barriers and rings. Salts Dermacol stoma collar can help channel output away from the skin.

- If your stoma is flush, retracted, or angled, try using convex barriers or inserts. Stoma guards or sleeves can protect the mucosa from wafer pressure.

- To troubleshoot leaks, check for body creases at the belt-line or when bending. Stomas near the navel can leak more easily. Side-sleeping on the stoma can crease the wafer, so consider sleeping on the opposite side or using a custom-cut foam mattress to relieve pressure. Changing the wafer daily or every other day might help heal damaged skin until you find a longer-lasting system.

- For mechanical support, try using two-belt setups or a modified hernia belt to prevent rolling and provide adjustable tension.

- Adopt a sample-and-experiment approach. Keep notes of all products tried and order free samples from various manufacturers. Change only one element at a time to see what makes a difference.

These strategies, including proper skin preparation, choosing the right convexity, correctly sizing and placing rings or paste, relieving physical pressure, and testing different systems, have been reported to significantly reduce or eliminate wafer-edge leaks and skin injury.