This topic is about a change in the material of Hollister 8805 barrier rings, which has caused issues for some users, leading them to search for reliable alternatives. If you're experiencing similar problems, here are some helpful insights and advice from others who have been in the same situation:

1. Alternative Rings:
- Convatec/Eakin Cohesive Thin Seals and standard Eakin rings are popular choices.
- Coloplast Brava rings/seals are noted for being more durable than Eakin but can be harder to remove.
- Eakin Stomawrap is a larger, open-ended ring that works well for odd-shaped or larger stomas and requires less stretching.
- Salts barrier rings are described as "wonderful" and "completely reliable," though they may not be available in the U.S.
- Hollister 8815 (slim version) and 7805 rings are still providing good wear time for some, though it's unclear if these are from older or newer batches.

2. Product-Specific Experiences:
- Recent batches of Hollister 8805 are reportedly melting quickly, leaving sticky residue and causing leaks. Hollister has not confirmed any formulation changes.
- Users allergic to both Eakin and Coloplast Brava rings find changes in Hollister 8805 particularly problematic.

3. Importance of Correct Wafer Style:
- Switching to a Hollister convex wafer or a one-piece convex system has helped some users eliminate leaks and extend wear time to 7 days, reducing the need for barrier rings.
- Pre-cut convex wafers can prevent granulomas caused by the stoma rubbing on hand-cut edges.

4. Skin Protection and Application Tips:
- Barrier rings can protect peristomal skin when wafer holes aren’t cut perfectly and can add 2–3 extra days of wear.
- Ensure your skin is completely dry and warm the wafer before applying for the best adhesion.
- Some users find that a convex wafer alone is sufficient, while others rely on rings to prevent irritation during activities involving bending and twisting.

5. Trial and Sample Options:
- Convatec offers a free-trial program for Eakin Cohesive barrier rings, allowing you to try different varieties if the first type doesn’t work for you.

6. Wear-Time Comparisons:
- Recent Hollister 8805 batches last about 1–1.5 days before melting and leaking.
- Eakin seals last around 3 days for some users.
- A previous setup with a flat wafer and folded Convatec barrier strips lasted about 7 days but caused stoma granulomas.
- Hollister convex pre-cut wafers, without rings, can last 7 days between changes for several users.