This topic is about exploring different ostomy setups without using barrier rings. It discusses the pros and cons of going ringless and offers alternative products and tips for those considering this change. Here are some insights and advice shared by others:

1. After a change in the formula of a barrier ring, one person experienced leaks and reached out to various companies for samples. A representative suggested trying a convex pouch cut snugly to the stoma without a ring, as rings can swell, break down, and cause leaks. This person, who has used rings successfully for 10 years, plans to test Coloplast’s new black convex pouch both with and without a ring at home first.

2. Cutting the wafer closer to the stoma might help prevent leaks, so ordering bags with smaller openings could be beneficial.

3. For those with an active lifestyle, like fitness instructors, using a ring might still be necessary to prevent leaks during physical activities.

4. Hollister Adapt Convex Barrier Ring samples have been received and seem to work most of the time.

5. The Coloplast Brava Slim ring caused leaks and skin irritation, so the Hollister CeraPlus pouch is still in use.

6. There are mixed opinions about using adhesive remover on CeraPlus wafers.

7. Trials are ongoing with rings from Hollister, ConvaTec, and other brands to find a replacement for Safe n Simple.

Advice and insights from others include:

- Barrier rings are essential for many users:
- Hollister Adapt Cera Ring and Adapt Convex rings are effective in stopping leaks.
- Salts rings help with skin irritation and extend wear time but are not available in the U.S.
- Eakin Cohesive rings and Stomawraps are highly praised for preventing leaks.
- ConvaTec seals have been used leak-free for years.
- Perfect Choice barrier rings have kept some users completely leak-free.
- Coloplast Brava rings work well for urostomy users but may swell too much for others.

- Ringless or minimal systems can work:
- Convex wafers cut exactly to the stoma can be effective if there are no gaps.
- Some users irrigate daily and wear only the wafer without leaks.
- Going ringless requires perfect wafer cutting and may not be suitable for heavy activity or sweating.

- Alternatives to rings:
- Coloplast Brava Paste can fill gaps when the wafer hole is slightly larger.
- 3M Cavilon No-Sting Barrier Film protects the skin when sprayed before applying the wafer.
- Coloplast Brava Protective Sheets can cover irritated areas but are not designed to stop leaks.

- Skin protection and application tips:
- Clean, dry, and de-hair the area around the stoma; let skin-prep films dry fully.
- Fit the ring snugly to the stoma, then overlap the ends.
- Press the wafer over the ring for 20–30 seconds and use a belt for the first hour.
- Use either paste or rings, not both together.
- Sprinkling table sugar on the stoma can make it temporarily shrink, easing ring placement.

- Choosing products:
- Order free samples from different makers to find what suits your anatomy and activity level.
- Active lifestyles may benefit from using a ring or paste for added security, while less-active users might manage with wafer-only setups.

- Adhesive removal:
- Many users of Hollister CeraPlus use adhesive-remover wipes or sprays without losing adhesion, as long as the skin is washed and dried before applying a new wafer. Baby oil followed by thorough cleansing is another option.

- Miscellaneous products mentioned:
- Hollister: CeraPlus pouches, Red #11703 skin barrier, pouch #18193.
- Coloplast: Brava moldable rings, black convex pouch, Brava Protective Sheets, Prep protective barrier, ostomy bag extenders.
- Ilesorb packets help absorb liquid in the pouch, keeping the stoma drier.