This topic is about using barrier rings with convex pouches for ostomy care, particularly for someone who has recently transitioned from a colostomy to an ileostomy and is experiencing red, irritated skin around the stoma. The person is seeking advice on whether using a barrier ring with a convex pouch is advisable and how to improve comfort and skin health. Here are some insights and advice shared by others:

- Barrier rings are designed to fill in dips and creases around the stoma, helping the wafer adhere better to the skin. They can be customized by cutting into smaller pieces, thinning with a rolling pin, or stacking for deeper filling. Some people modify oversized rings to fit better and use leftover pieces for extra support.

- Combining barrier rings with convex pouches is generally successful for many, especially for retracted or skin-level stomas. While one nurse advised caution, others have found this combination effective once the stoma has healed, typically about two weeks after surgery.

- If comfort is a concern, consider using thinner versions of barrier rings, which are available from various manufacturers. This can help reduce pressure and improve comfort.

- Assess whether a barrier ring or paste is necessary. If the stoma protrudes well and the skin is even, a ring might not be needed. Use ring pieces or paste only where the wafer shows signs of erosion.

- A proven routine for preventing leaks includes dusting karaya powder around the stoma, setting it with skin-prep wipes, molding an Eakin Seal around the stoma, applying a Convatec convex wafer, and reinforcing with a Coloplast Brava Elastic Barrier Strip. This method has provided up to five days of wear without leaks.

- For skin protection, karaya powder is available from suppliers like Parthenon in the US and is considered more soothing than standard stoma powder. The 3M Cavilon No-Sting Barrier Film is another option for a protective layer and is available online. Be cautious with creams and powders, as they can affect wafer adhesion if not used correctly.

- General skin-care tips include allowing the skin to breathe between appliance changes by showering without a pouch and drying thoroughly. Check the back of used wafers to see where output is affecting the seal and target those areas with ring pieces or paste.

These insights aim to help manage skin irritation and improve the comfort and effectiveness of ostomy appliances.