The topic at hand is about whether it's safe to use exfoliating sponges on the skin around a stoma. This is a common concern for those with a stoma, as maintaining healthy skin in that area is crucial. Here are some insights and advice from the discussion:

- Most people advise against using anything abrasive on the skin around the stoma. Even mildly abrasive sponges can damage the delicate skin, leading to irritation, skin breakdown, or problems with the wafer sticking properly.

- If you are considering using an exfoliator, opt for an extremely soft one and apply it with a very gentle touch. Be sure to stop immediately if you notice any redness or irritation.

- Recommended methods for cleaning the area include:
1. Using warm water, mild soap, and a very soft cloth.
2. Using adhesive remover wipes or sprays to gently lift any leftover barrier residue instead of scrubbing.
3. Using a plastic "cup" provided by the manufacturer or a similar-sized food container, half-filled with warm water, placed over the stoma and gently shaken for a few minutes, followed by a gentle pat-dry.

- One person with a long-term urostomy has had success using a soft synthetic loofah from a "Dove For Men" gift pack. They use it well-lathered, making four or five very light circular passes after using an adhesive remover, which has improved the baseplate bond. However, results may vary, especially for those with a colostomy or more sensitive skin.

- General cautions include:
1. Recognizing that skin around the stoma can vary greatly from person to person; what works for one individual might not be suitable for another.
2. Avoiding unnecessary problems; once the peristomal skin is damaged, it can be challenging to heal.
3. Monitoring the skin closely and using common sense. Discontinue any method that causes a negative skin reaction.