Topic Explanation:
The forum topic is about sharing tips for healing and preventing irritation around a stoma, particularly for individuals with colostomies. The initial post provides a detailed step-by-step guide for cleaning and protecting the skin around the stoma.

Advice and Insights:
- Use antibacterial soap (such as Dial) to clean the area when changing the stoma.
- While the area is soapy, use a Q-tip to clean the irritated skin and remove feces that may not come off with a towel.
- Thoroughly dry the area with a blow dryer or air dry, then apply Dr. Smith cream to the irritated broken skin with a Q-tip. This cream acts as a protective barrier and aids in healing the skin.
- Consider purchasing the recommended items from local pharmacies like CVS or Walgreens.
- Another user suggests using a plastic cup filled with warm water to clean the stoma area thoroughly before applying barrier sprays.
- Some users recommend using tincture of benzoin for skin irritation and to enhance wear time for the colostomy appliance.