This topic is about dealing with itchy skin around the wafer or flange after ileostomy surgery. The person who shared their experience is four weeks post-surgery and is struggling with intense itching shortly after changing their appliance. This itching leads to redness, soreness, and sometimes bleeding, although the skin looks normal before scratching. They have tried different brands, including Convatec, but the problem persists. Here are some helpful tips and advice that might be useful:

1. Consider product reactions:
- Check all products used before applying the wafer, such as skin preps, soaps, and powders, as itching might be due to contact dermatitis or an adhesive allergy.
- Some people may react to specific brands differently.

2. Calm the skin before application:
- Lightly coat the peristomal area with calamine lotion, dry it with a hair-dryer on low, and then apply the wafer.

3. Treat possible fungal involvement:
- If the skin becomes red, weepy, or intensely itchy, use an over-the-counter athlete’s-foot powder on the area, dab with a skin-prep pad to make a paste, let it dry, and then apply the flange. Tape the edges if adhesion is reduced.
- Oral anti-fungal medication might be necessary if there was recent antibiotic use.

4. Use physical barriers:
- Place an Eakins seal beneath the flange to prevent leaks and reduce skin irritation.

5. Soothing and preventive measures:
- Use standard ostomy stoma powder and "no-sting" adhesive barrier spray or wipes when the skin is fragile.
- Clean with plain warm water only and avoid harsh soaps.
- Adding apple-cider vinegar to bathwater and wiping the skin with alcohol swabs before application can help reduce itching for some.
- Instead of scratching, gently rub the area with a knuckle to avoid breaking the skin.

6. Symptomatic relief:
- Oral antihistamines like diphenhydramine (Benadryl) can provide immediate relief.
- A 24-hour non-sedating allergy tablet, as recommended by a GP, resolved the issue for the person who shared their experience and might help others too.