This topic is about understanding the correct use of stoma powder, especially when there is conflicting advice from healthcare professionals. The main concern is how much powder to use and what its purpose is. Here are some helpful insights and advice:

- Purpose of Stoma Powder:
- Stoma powder is intended for use on broken, weeping, or irritated skin around the stoma.
- It helps absorb moisture so that a new barrier or wafer can adhere properly and the skin can heal. If your skin is healthy, you don't need to use the powder.

- How Much to Use and Application Technique:
- Apply a very light dusting of powder; just enough to cover the damp area.
- Hold the bottle upright and gently tap off any visible excess powder, as too much can weaken the adhesive.
- After applying the powder, many people use a skin-barrier spray or wipe, such as 3M Cavilon No-Sting Barrier or Hollister skin-barrier spray, and let it dry before attaching the pouch.

- "Less is Better" Consensus:
- Using too much powder can shorten the life of the wafer and cause leaks.
- It's important to address the underlying cause of skin damage so that you can eventually stop using the powder.

- Alternative or Additional Products and Techniques:
- Use Cavilon barrier wipes or wands instead of powder when the skin is intact.
- Cleanse the area with non-moisturizing soaps like Ivory or white Dial, rinse thoroughly, dry, and then apply the pouch without using powder or barrier wipes.
- For irritated spots, dab on calamine lotion, dry it with a hair dryer, and cover with a skin-barrier wipe before placing the wafer. This can help heal rashes and pimples.

- Referenced Brands and Products:
- Hollister Adapt Stoma Powder
- 3M Cavilon No-Sting Barrier spray, wipes, or wands
- Ivory soap, Dial white soap
- Calamine lotion, available at most pharmacies