This topic is all about managing leaks for ostomy users, specifically comparing the use of barrier rings with just using a flange. The original poster found that adding barrier rings under the flange helped eliminate leaks caused by a belly-button crease. They noticed that many people don't use rings and are curious about how others prevent leaks without them. Here are some insights and advice shared by others:

1. Barrier rings as problem-solvers:
- Many long-term users find that barrier rings help stop leaks, protect against skin irritation from ileostomy output, fill in dips or valleys around the stoma, and reduce skin irritation.
- Thin rings can help if the pre-cut barrier is slightly misaligned and often extend wear time to 6–7 days.
- Rings are often essential if the stoma is in a dip, close to the navel, or if the skin has healed unevenly.

2. When rings may be unnecessary:
- Some people achieve 6–7 days of wear without rings by using a convex flange, as flat flanges tend to lift quickly for them.
- The "less is more" approach suggests using the fewest products necessary to maintain a reliable seal.

3. Cleaning and skin prep:
- Avoid soaps or wipes with oils, moisturizers, fragrances, or cleansing agents, as they can leave a residue that weakens adhesion. Ivory or Dial bar soaps, well rinsed, are recommended.
- Plain water is fine if the skin is thoroughly degreased; many prefer to shower without a pouch to ensure a full rinse.
- Baby wipes or wet wipes are discouraged unless the skin is completely rinsed afterward.

4. Additional leak-prevention accessories:
- Ostomy belts that clip to the flange provide extra security and allow users to wait longer before emptying a full pouch.
- Barrier paste combined with a ring can fill tiny gaps around challenging stomas.

5. Managing severe rashes and non-adherence:
- Avoid prolonged use of steroid creams as they can thin the skin.
- SALTS Aloe-infused products, like flange extenders or barrier rings, can be cut to size and placed over raw areas before applying the flange. Users report rapid healing within two changes, and free samples are available from Salts.
- Other products people have tried include 3M 5050 Cavilon skin-barrier wand, sprays, various barrier pastes, antifungal/yeast medications, and LED/laser skin-healing wands. Results vary, so it's worth trying different combinations.

6. Key products and brands mentioned:
- Barrier rings from various generic brands.
- Convex versus flat flanges (no specific brand mentioned).
- Salts Healthcare: Aloe-infused flange extenders and barrier rings.
- 3M Cavilon 5050 skin-barrier wand.
- Ivory and Dial bar soaps for cleaning.
- Ostomy belts that attach to flanges for added support.