When the skin around your stoma is uneven or has small crevices, a paste can help create a better seal and reduce leaks. Below is a clear how-to for applying the paste properly and effectively.
What is Ostomy Paste For?
The main ostomy paste use is primarily to fill naturally irregular skin surfaces so the ostomy wafer or pouch adheres cleanly.
SNS’s Skin Barrier Paste for ostomy is designed to protect the peri-stomal skin and reduce irritation by sealing gaps. It comes in an easy-to-squeeze tube and has enhanced adhesion for a quick and simple seal.
Ostomy Paste vs Ring
The decision on whether to use a ring or a paste depends on your skin topography. The paste molds more easily into crevices, whereas a ring is preformed. For most people, a barrier ring provides the main seal around the stoma, and paste is used to fill specific scars, folds or dips that remain. Our barrier ring vs ostomy paste guide compares the two in detail.
Ready to Try It Yourself?
Our Skin Barrier Paste seals gaps fast for lasting comfort.
Step-by-Step Ostomy Barrier Paste Application
Here’s a quick step-by-step guide on how to apply the paste:
- Prepare the area. Remove your old pouch or baseplate. Clean the skin around the stoma gently with a no-sting cleanser or prescribed wipes. Dry the skin completely so no moisture or residue remains.
- Open the tube and load paste. Squeeze a small amount of ostomy barrier paste onto a clean fingertip or spatula. You don’t need a thick layer – just enough to fill contour gaps.
- Apply to skin or wafer. You can apply paste directly onto the skin around the stoma or onto the hole in your wafer. Spread in a circular pattern around the stoma opening to fill dips and uneven spots.
- Smooth the paste. Use a clean finger or applicator to smooth the edges so there are no ridges. This is vital for both adhesion and comfort.
- Press the wafer/pouch in place. Press the wafer firmly onto the skin and hold for 30 seconds to one minute to get a strong bond.
- Monitor and adjust. Check for leaks. If you see paste squeezing out, you may need to trim the wafer opening or apply less paste next time.
Applying paste this way can help improve your seal and reduce the risk of leaks during your ostomy surgery recovery and beyond. Safe n’ Simple Skin Barrier Paste comes in classic pectin-based, fast-drying and alcohol-free formulas, so you can choose the one that suits your skin.
