The topic is about finding the best tapes and extenders to keep the edges of an ostomy wafer secure, especially when sweating or swimming. The person who started the discussion has a Hollister CeraPlus wafer with a cloth border that tends to lift when they perspire or swim. They are looking for a reliable solution to keep the wafer edges flat during outdoor activities. Here are some suggestions and insights shared by others:
1. Nexcare waterproof tape (pink version, 3M) is recommended by several people. It seals wafer edges well, stays on during swimming, and is affordable at around $3 at Walmart.
2. Brava flange extenders from Coloplast are effective for several days. Coloplast "Y" elastic strips are another option to consider.
3. AquaSeal or Sure Seal rings by Costa Medical are clear overlays that fit over the flange and bond to the skin beyond the wafer, remaining waterproof for 7-8 days.
4. OPSITE products from Smith & Nephew, such as OPSITE FlexiFix transparent film tape and OPSITE roll tape, are flexible, waterproof, and durable. They cost about $50 per roll and are often covered by insurance.
5. Leukotape from BSN Medical is a strong sports/medical tape that withstands showers, sweat, and swimming. It is available on Amazon.
6. Scanpore 2" tape adheres like a second skin and remains secure after baths, pool, and ocean use, though it may fail in prolonged hot-tub use.
7. In the 3M tape family:
- Micropore (paper) is gentle and breathable but may lift after several days.
- Durapore (white fabric) offers a stronger hold.
- Transpore (clear plastic) is the strongest but less conforming.
8. Hy-Tape "pink" waterproof tape and Nu-Hope C-shaped barrier-edge strips provide ready-made waterproof extensions and can be covered by insurance.
9. Supplemental liquid adhesives like Torbot Skin-Tac and Osto-Bond are latex-based brush-on adhesives that reinforce tape/wafer adhesion. Be sure to check for latex allergies.
10. To control sweat, consider applying once-weekly antiperspirant wipes around the wafer area to reduce moisture under the tape. Several brands are available on Amazon.
11. For skin safety, remember that high-tack tapes can strip the skin. Use adhesive remover to loosen the tape and peel gently, avoiding the "rip it off" technique.
12. Heavy-duty hardware tapes like Gorilla Tape or Flex Seal were mentioned jokingly and are not suitable for use on the skin.
See full discusison