This topic is about dealing with skin irritation that occurs under an Eakin ostomy seal. The irritation appears as tiny, circular spots where the skin's outer layer is peeling away. Here are some helpful tips and insights to address this issue:

- The spots are small, about the size of a hat-pin head, and are located on the side and bottom of the wafer area, not near the stoma.
- The user is considering using hydrocortisone cream or fresh aloe to alleviate the irritation but is unsure how to get a suitable prescription due to their ostomy nurse's lack of up-to-date knowledge.

Here are some suggestions to help manage the irritation:

1. Identify whether the irritation is due to a contact allergy or moisture. One approach is to trace the irritated areas on the clear plastic backing of the wafer and then punch holes in the barrier to allow those spots to breathe. This method works until too many holes are needed.

2. Consider using an anti-allergy nasal spray, such as generic Flonase (fluticasone propionate), applied directly to the irritated skin. It dries quickly and does not affect the adhesion of the wafer.

3. If the irritation is severe, consult a dermatologist about using a stronger topical steroid like Betamethasone foam, which controls inflammation while keeping the skin relatively dry.

4. Hydrocortisone cream may help, but its greasiness can prevent the barrier from sticking. If you try it, apply the cream during a change, leave it on for about 30 minutes, and then wash it off completely before reapplying the seal.

5. An asthma inhaler containing a corticosteroid can be sprayed onto the affected area. It dries instantly, provides a mild steroid dose, and maintains wafer adhesion.

6. Fresh aloe gel can feel soothing, but it may not resolve the lesions effectively, as experienced by one member.