This topic is about managing barrier leaks for those living with an ostomy, specifically focusing on the use of rings versus Adapt paste. The person sharing their experience has been using an ostomy for five years and is exploring ways to extend the wear time of their barrier, which currently lasts 2-3 days before leaking. They are curious if applying the paste further from the stoma might help and are looking for reliable methods to prevent leaks.

Here are some helpful insights and advice from others:

1. Skin Preparation and Cleaning
- Ensure all soap, adhesive remover, and residue are completely removed. Let the skin air-dry before applying any products.
- Some people use a liquid skin protectant, like Nexcare Liquid Bandage, around the stoma to create a tacky surface for better adhesion.

2. Alternative Sealing Products
- Many have found success with Eakin Cohesive Seals from Convatec instead of paste.
- Convatec Natura Surfit Flexible wafers, cut precisely to the stoma size, can be used effectively without paste or rings.

3. Application Technique
- Warm the flange or wafer for 1–2 minutes using your hands, a hair dryer, or body heat to improve adhesion.
- If using paste, apply a very thin strip to the inner edge of the barrier near the stoma and wait until it becomes tacky before attaching the wafer. Less is often more.
- Lying down while applying the barrier can help flatten the abdomen and improve adhesion, especially over creases or rolls.

4. Convexity and Fit Issues
- If the stoma is flush, retracted, or surrounded by uneven skin, a convex flange might be necessary. Check for any gaps or indentations that could allow output to leak under the wafer.

5. Mechanical Support
- Using a rigid plastic Stoma-Guard during the day can prevent accidental pressure on the pouch and maintain even pressure on the barrier, which has helped some users avoid leaks entirely.

6. Wear-Time Expectations
- Many people change their barrier every 3 days, though some achieve 4–5 days. It might be normal for your skin and product combination to last only 3 days.

7. Paste vs. Ring vs. None
- Experiences vary widely:
- Some find that using Adapt paste alone, applied right at the stoma base, effectively stops leaks.
- Others find paste messy and prefer rings or no sealant at all if the wafer fits well.
- Combining small segments of a ring in deep skin creases can be helpful for those with irregular anatomy.