This topic is about dealing with red, itchy skin that can occur after removing an ostomy adhesive. The person experiencing this issue finds that their skin becomes irritated despite using an adhesive remover. They are considering whether taking Benadryl might help and have also experienced a minor injury to their stoma. Here are some helpful insights and advice for managing this situation:

1. Identify the Cause:
- Press the red area: if the color doesn’t fade, it might be an adhesive allergy. Consider stopping the use of barrier-extender strips or trying a different brand.
- It could be a chemical burn from skin prep or cleaners. Try avoiding alcohol-based products.
- Consider the possibility of a fungal rash. If so, treat with Nystatin or over-the-counter miconazole products.

2. Product Changes & Alternatives:
- Experiment with different adhesive removers like ConvaTec Niltac (silicone) or just use warm water and Dove soap.
- Consider switching or eliminating barrier extenders. Some people only use them during activities like golf.
- Test other wafers designed for sensitive skin or moldable options, such as Coloplast Easiflex or Eakin rings without extenders.
- If extenders are necessary, try Coloplast Brava Strip Paste or Brava Elastic Tapes, which are often better tolerated.

3. Medications & Topicals for Inflammation:
- Oral or gel Benadryl, Caladryl Clear, or aloe can help soothe itching. Gels are preferable as they don’t affect adhesion.
- Lightly spray OTC Flonase (fluticasone) on the skin, let it dry, and then apply stoma powder and barrier film to manage redness.
- Prescription options include a short course of topical steroids, followed by Elidel 1% (pimecrolimus) for maintenance.
- Lotrimin AF powder spray (miconazole) under a no-sting barrier wipe can provide cooling relief and prevent fungal rashes.
- Use Dombero powder/soak, calamine lotion (let it dry), Stomahesive powder, zinc cream, Bactine, or witch-hazel for spot treatment.

4. Application Techniques:
- "Crusting": Dust irritated skin with stoma powder, blot off excess, and seal with alcohol-free 3M Cavilon No-Sting Barrier Film. Repeat 2–3 times.
- Remove appliances with adhesive spray while it is still wet to avoid irritation from barrier-removal wipes.
- Shower without adhesive products to let cool water soothe and cleanse the skin.
- Use pre-cut or moldable wafers to prevent accidental nicks and ensure a smoother edge.

5. General Tips:
- Do not keep or reuse supplies that cause reactions. If extenders are the issue, consider giving them away.
- Change appliances only as needed. Many people find that changing every 5–7 days allows the skin to recover.
- Apply good pressure on the wafer after application using clothing or hand heat to improve the seal without extenders.
- Monitor diet and avoid excess sugar, as well as heat and sweat, which can promote candida growth.