The topic is about dealing with skin irritation around a stoma, which can be red, peeling, and difficult to protect. This is a common concern for those with an ileostomy, especially when the stoma is an unusual shape, making it hard to fit the wafer properly and leading to leaks. Here are some helpful tips and advice to manage and protect the skin:

1. Seek out a certified ostomy nurse for a hands-on assessment. They can help with fitting templates, choosing the right wafer, and evaluating the stoma's profile, whether it's protruding, flush, or recessed.

2. Avoid using Desitin or zinc-oxide pastes under the wafer. While they may soothe the skin, they can prevent the wafer from sticking properly and might make leaks worse.

3. Measure your stoma every time you change the appliance, as its size can vary. Use a cut-to-fit wafer, and if the stoma is flush or recessed, consider switching to a convex barrier.

4. Use a sealing aid like an Eakin Cohesive Seal or another sealing washer before applying the base plate to fill any gaps and prevent leaks.

5. Try the "crusting" technique for broken skin:
- Clean the area with an adhesive remover wipe.
- Lightly dust the irritated area with ostomy powder.
- Gently blow off any excess powder.
- Spray 3M Cavilon No-Sting Barrier Film over the powder and let it dry.
- Repeat the powder and film layers up to three times, then apply the wafer.

6. Marathon Skin Protectant is noted as highly effective for raw skin around the stoma.

7. Other products that might help with sore skin before applying the wafer include:
- Boudreaux’s Butt Paste, Max Strength.
- 1% Hydrocortisone cream for short-term inflammation relief.
- Compound Tincture of Benzoin, which creates a tacky protective layer.

8. Allow the skin to take short "breaks" during appliance changes by letting the area air-dry thoroughly before applying any product.

9. If you have sensitive skin or an adhesive allergy, try different manufacturers’ wafers and barrier rings until you find a system that works for you.