This topic is about a product called Revel “It’s In The Bag” Lubricant/Deodorant, which is designed to make emptying ostomy pouches easier and reduce odors. Here’s a breakdown of the experiences and advice shared by users:
- **Positives**: The product works as advertised, making it easier to empty pouches and effectively reducing odors.
- **Negatives**: Some users found that the oil-based formula leaked through the pouch filter, causing oily stains on the pouch cover and clothing. The adhesive on filter covers also lost its stickiness quickly. However, the company provided a prompt refund, and the remaining product was donated.
Advice and insights from users include:
1. **General Verdict on Revel**:
- Many users experienced oil leakage and filter failure, with increased odor after a few days. Several received refunds.
- A few users reported success when using a small amount, about 5 ml or less than 8 drops, applied thinly.
2. **Dose Matters with Any Oil-Based Lube/Deodorant**:
- Using 4–8 drops (around 5 ml) can prevent leakage. Overusing can flood filters and damage adhesives, especially with Hollister and Coloplast products.
- It's recommended to try a sample first, as many companies offer free trial sachets or bottles.
3. **Alternatives That Work**:
- Hollister Adapt Lubricating Deodorant and Hollister M-9 Deodorizer (for odor only).
- Coloplast Brava Lubricating Deodorant (up to 8 drops recommended).
- Convatec ESENTA Lubricating Deodorant.
- Diamond Gelling & Odor-Control Sachets (add baby oil for lubrication).
- Smelleze pouch powder for thickening and odor control.
- Homemade or low-cost options include olive oil, baby oil, soybean oil, hair conditioner, hydrogen peroxide, aspirin, essential oils, peppermint Altoids or TicTac mints, and water rinse with a handheld bidet.
4. **Odor-Control Tips**:
- Rinse the pouch after each emptying, change the appliance every 3 days, and limit foods that cause strong odors like onions, garlic, fish, and spicy dishes.
- Some find that using hydrogen peroxide with water and a peppermint or tea-tree oil cotton ball helps eliminate gas smells.
5. **Filter Reality Check**:
- Once liquid reaches any integrated filter, it stops venting, leading to ballooning. Oils can speed up this failure.
- Users of certain pouch designs like the plate design but not the filter.
6. **High-Output/Busy Ileostomy Tactics**:
- If you need to empty your pouch more than six times a day, products like Brava or Adapt can help but need reapplication each time. Medicare might not cover enough bottles, so some users buy from Amazon or use DIY mixtures like olive oil.
7. **When Trying New Products**:
- Always get free samples, test them at home first, and keep spare clothes handy until you’re sure the product works well with your pouch system.
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