This topic is about whether the skin around an ostomy, known as peristomal skin, becomes less sensitive over time, allowing people to skip using adhesive remover when changing their ostomy barrier. Here are some helpful insights and advice on this topic:

1. Reasons to Use Adhesive Remover:
- It helps make barrier removal painless by stopping the barrier from pulling on the skin.
- It quickly dissolves any build-up from skin-prep products.
- It's essential for those with fragile peristomal skin, liver-related skin changes, or peristomal varices to prevent bleeding.

2. When You Might Skip Adhesive Remover:
- If your skin is healthy and not fragile, you might tolerate barrier removal using a gentle technique, like a warm soapy washcloth and pushing the skin away rather than pulling the wafer.
- The main downside to using adhesive remover is the cost, as it does not actually "toughen" the skin.

3. Gentle Removal Techniques:
- Hold the edge of the wafer and push the skin inward instead of yanking the wafer off to avoid stretching the skin.
- A warm, soapy washcloth can be slid between the wafer and skin to loosen most barriers without chemicals.
- Exfoliate before shaving peristomal hair and thoroughly dry the skin (using a hair-dryer on cool) to reduce the risk of rashes.

4. Recommended Products:
- Hollister Adapt No-Sting Adhesive Remover Spray (TSA travel size).
- ConvaTec Adhesive Remover Spray and AllKare Protective Barrier Wipes.
- ConvaTec DuoDerm Extra Thin Spots for sore areas.
- 3M medical waterproof tape, which requires remover to release.

5. Barrier Adhesion Variables:
- Hollister offers four barrier formulas with different levels of "stickiness;" choose the least aggressive one that still provides reliable wear.
- Using stoma powder or skin-prep/border wipes can reduce adhesion; they are meant for weepy or broken skin. Skipping unnecessary powder or barrier film can often extend wear time by 1-2 days.

6. Long-term Skin Considerations:
- Over time, repeatedly removing barriers without adhesive remover can leave peristomal skin thin and delicate. Newer users are encouraged to protect their skin now to avoid future problems.

7. Overall Takeaway:
- Peristomal skin does not really "toughen." Whether to use adhesive remover depends on your skin condition, the type of barrier you use, and your personal comfort. Many ostomates find sprays and wipes indispensable, while others succeed with soap and water plus careful technique.