September/October 2006
Page 9
Is It Always Necessary to Use Sealant on My Skin?
You should try applying your pouch without this product a few times to see if you really need it. Some people get excellent wear time without using sealant. Others may find it improves skin health and pouch adhesion. Skin sealants such as Skin-Prep by Smith & Nephew, Skin Gel Wipes by Hollister, Allkare by ConvaTec and Bard Skincare Protective Film are available in different forms, such as small wipes, sprays or applicator bottles. These products contain a plastering agent as their main ingredient and are used to provide a thin protective film on the skin surface. This film helps prevent injury to the surface layer of the skin during appliance removal. It also acts as a moisture barrier. For people with dry skin, the film actually improves appliance adhesion. Skin sealants also contain variable amounts of isopropyl alcohol. Because of the alcohol content of the sealant, burning and stinging often occur when the sealant is applied to damaged skin. Therefore, skin barrier powder should be used rather than a skin sealant on irritated skin. It is also important to know that skin sealants may not be recommended for use under certain skin barriers. The protective film may reduce the adherence of the barrier.
SOURCE: The Right Connection & Southern Nevada's Town Karaya; Kawartha District Newsletter, Nov. 2005; Halton-Peel Ostomy News June 2006: Vancouver Ostomy Highlife, July August, 2006, via Inside Out On-line Sep/Oct 2006.
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