Topic Explanation:
The forum discussion revolves around finding the best soap for stoma skin care. The original poster is seeking advice on whether there is a specific soap made for washing the skin around a stoma, acknowledging that while water is often recommended, some people use generic soaps. The discussion includes personal experiences and recommendations for soaps that are suitable for sensitive skin and do not interfere with the adhesion of ostomy appliances.
Advice and Insights:
1. General Soap Recommendations:
- Use soaps that are free of scents, creams, or additives. Ivory soap is frequently recommended for its simplicity and effectiveness.
- Dove soap is another option, but avoid those with oils like cocoa shea butter as they can affect adhesion.
- Dial soap is suggested for its antibacterial properties and lack of additives.
2. Sensitive Skin Considerations:
- Aveeno is recommended for those with sensitive skin.
- Sorbolene beauty bars are suggested for sensitive skin, being fragrance-free and dermatologically tested.
3. Specialty and Alternative Products:
- Enzymatic Rain is mentioned as an odor eliminator and skin cleanser.
- Hollister Skin Cleanser liquid spray soap is used by some, though availability may vary by region.
- Dr. Bronner's Pure Castile Soap Tea Tree is used by some for its adhesive removal properties.
4. Shampoo as an Alternative:
- Head & Shoulders shampoo is recommended by some for its zinc content, which helps maintain healthy skin.
- Some users also use plain or cleaning-type shampoos like Tresemme deep clean or Equate cleaning shampoo, ensuring they do not contain moisturizers.
5. Additional Tips:
- Rinse thoroughly after using soap to ensure no residue is left that could affect appliance adhesion.
- Some users have found success using antibacterial hand sanitizers like Dial Antibacterial Hand Sanitizer for additional cleanliness.
- For those who shave the area, using a small amount of shampoo can help with cleaning and shaving.
6. Personal Experiences:
- Some users have tried specialized ostomy soaps in the past but found them unnecessary or difficult to find.
- Personal preferences vary, with some users sticking to what works best for their skin type and lifestyle.
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