Stick With Less Mess: Choosing Barrier Rings Over Paste
Learn about the key differences between ostomy paste and ostomy barrier rings, and why many nurses and ostomates are increasingly choosing rings.
Find out how barrier rings can simplify your ostomy care routine and improve your skin health.
For those living with an ostomy, maintaining a secure and comfortable seal around the stoma is essential for preventing leaks and protecting the skin. Two common products used to achieve this seal are ostomy skin barrier rings and ostomy paste. While both serve similar purposes, they differ significantly in form, application, and user experience.
In this article, we’ll explore the key differences between these two products and explain why many ostomates and clinicians are increasingly choosing rings over paste.
Understanding the basics
Ostomy paste is a pliable, toothpaste-like substance designed to fill in uneven skin surfaces around the stoma. It helps create a smoother surface for the ostomy skin barrier to adhere to, reducing the risk of leaks. Despite its name, ostomy paste is not an adhesive; rather, it acts as a caulking agent.
Ostomy barrier rings, also known as barrier rings or seals, are soft, moldable discs made from hydrocolloid material. Like paste, they are used to fill in skin creases and gaps, but they also provide a more structured and consistent seal. Rings are designed to be stretched, shaped, and/or stacked to fit individual needs.
Key differences between ostomy paste and barrier rings
1. Application and ease of use
Paste: Applying paste can be messy and time-consuming. It often requires squeezing the product from a tube, spreading it evenly, and waiting for it to set slightly before applying the skin barrier. Paste can also stick to fingers and be difficult to remove from skin or clothing.
Barrier rings: Rings are clean and easy to handle. Users can simply peel them from their packaging, mold them to the desired shape, and apply them directly to the skin or the back of the skin barrier. There’s no waiting time and no sticky residue left behind.
2. Skin protection
Paste: While paste can help prevent leaks, it may contain alcohol. Alcohol can sting or irritate sensitive skin around the stoma – especially if the skin is already damaged.
Barrier rings: Most barrier rings are alcohol-free and infused with skin-friendly ingredients. For example, the CeraRing™ barrier ring is infused with ceramide, which supports healthy skin. The rings provide a gentle seal that helps protect the skin from moisture and output, helping to reduce the risk of irritation and breakdown.
3. Seal integrity
Paste: Ostomy paste can be affected by moisture and skin conditions, which means the seal might not always stay the same. This could lead to leaks or needing to change the pouch more often.
Barrier rings: Rings maintain their shape and integrity for longer periods. They swell slightly when exposed to moisture, which helps reinforce the seal and prevent leaks. This can lead to longer wear times and greater confidence.
4. Convenience and portability
Paste: Tubes of paste can be bulky and prone to drying out if not sealed properly. They also require careful handling during travel or on-the-go pouch changes.
Barrier rings: Rings come in individually-sealed packets, making them easy to carry and use discreetly. They’re ideal for travel, work, or any situation where convenience matters.
When might paste still be useful?
While rings are often preferred, paste still has its place. In cases where the skin around the stoma is extremely uneven or deeply creased, paste can be used to fill in very specific gaps that rings might not reach. Some users also combine both products – using paste for fine-tuning and rings for the primary seal.
Final thoughts on paste vs. rings
Choosing between ostomy paste and barrier rings ultimately comes down to personal preference and individual needs. However, for many people with ostomies, the benefits of rings – less mess, easier application, better skin protection, and longer wear times – make them the clear winner.
If you’re looking to simplify your ostomy care routine and improve your skin health, it might be time to stick with less mess and give barrier rings a try.
Visit this page to request a free sample of CeraRing™ Barrier Rings or contact the Hollister Customer Service Team at 1.888.808.7456 or HollisterTeam@hollister.com.
