When you have an ileostomy, choosing the right combination of skin barriers, rings, and pouches can be a bit of a puzzle, especially if you're considering mixing different brands. Here's a look at some helpful advice and insights from others who have been in your shoes:

- Interchangeability:
- Many people have found that mixing brands, like using a Hollister pouch with a Coloplast Brava or Eakin ring, works just fine. Some systems might be designed to work best with their own brand, but this can vary from person to person.

- Trial & Error / Record-Keeping:
- It's a good idea to keep a log of how long each product combination lasts for you. One user tracked different rings and found wear times ranging from 1 to 14 days, eventually deciding that Eakin worked best for them. Don't hesitate to request free samples from major manufacturers to try out new options.

- Barrier/Ring Options Mentioned:
- Some of the options people have tried include Coloplast Brava rings, Eakin Cohesive seals, Hollister Adapt rings, CeraPlus skin barrier, Siltac silicone rings, Perfect Choice barrier rings, and Sure Seal protective covers.

- Belt Use:
- Some users find wearing an ostomy belt helpful, especially when the pouch gets heavy. Others feel that certain lightweight barriers, like Hollister CeraPlus, are secure enough without a belt.

- Skin Sensitivities & Switches:
- It's not uncommon for skin sensitivities to develop over time. One person had a reaction to Eakin after a year and successfully switched to silicone rings.

- Professional Help:
- An ostomy nurse can be a great resource for matching compatible parts across different brands, which might save you some trial-and-error time.

- General Consensus:
- Mixing brands is generally considered safe. The best combination for you will depend on your individual skin, stoma shape, and output volume. Remember, finding the right setup is often an ongoing process, and it's perfectly normal to keep experimenting until you find what works best for you.