This topic is about finding the right soaps and shampoos that won't interfere with the adhesion of ostomy wafers. The poster noticed that their current soap might be causing their wafers to detach early and is seeking advice on suitable alternatives. Here are some helpful insights and advice shared by others:
1. Avoid soaps or body washes with moisturizers, oils, fragrances, or heavy conditioners, as these can leave a film that affects wafer adhesion.
- Recommended bar soaps include Ivory bar, yellow Dial bar, Zest, Dove for Sensitive Skin, and unscented baby bars.
- Liquid soaps often contain moisturizers, so only use them if they are clearly free of additives, like yellow Dial liquid.
2. Many people find success using just warm or cool water with a soft cloth or Q-tips, followed by thorough drying. Adding a skin-prep or barrier wipe afterward can enhance adhesion and protect the skin.
3. Johnson’s Baby Shampoo and Walmart’s Parent’s Choice Baby Shampoo are gentle options that work for some, but many still prefer the reliability of the Ivory bar around the stoma.
4. An extra cleansing routine that can improve adhesion involves using a diluted Dial soap and water mix, rinsing, and then wiping the wafer area 3–4 times with alcohol prep pads, allowing each pass to air-dry. This may sting if the skin is raw but helps remove residue and promotes healing.
5. Other gentle cleansers mentioned include:
- Soothe & Cool (Medline) body wash & shampoo.
- MicroKlenz spray cleanser, which costs around $10 per bottle and is available without a prescription at many medical-supply stores. It's useful for "water-free" emergency changes.
6. Accessory products and routines that can help extend wear time include:
- Using Coloplast SenSura 1-piece pouch #15531 with Adapt Barrier Rings #7805, Coloplast elastic barrier strips, and occasionally shaving peristomal hair.
- Daily flange extensions for added security when going out.
- Natural options some find soothing include plain homemade "no-oil" soaps, natural beeswax soap, and fresh aloe-vera gel allowed to dry before applying the appliance.
7. The general consensus is to stick to simple, additive-free cleansers or even just water, and maintain a consistent routine. This approach minimizes residue and maximizes wafer adhesion and wear time.
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