Question:
My stoma does not stay stuck on. I don’t use any soap except a bar of pure Ivory soap. Please advise on tips.
Answer:
Thank you for your question. A pouch that won’t stay adhered can be very frustrating, especially when you’re trying to do everything right. Even when using a simple soap like Ivory, adhesion issues can still happen — but there are several strategies you can try.
Common Reasons Your Appliance May Not Stay On
Even unscented or “pure” bar soaps can leave a residue on the skin that interferes with the adhesive. In ostomy care, it’s usually best to avoid bar soaps altogether, as many contain moisturizers or binders that reduce stickiness.
In addition to soap, adhesion problems can happen if the skin around the stoma is:
- Damp or not fully dry before applying the flange
- Irritated, oily, or broken down
- Uneven (e.g., dips, folds, or a hernia)
Tips for Improving Adhesion
1. Switch from Bar Soap to Water-Only or a Soap-Free Cleanser
Try using just warm water to clean the area around your stoma. If you feel you need something more, choose a soap-free, residue-free cleanser designed for ostomy care.
Avoid:
- Moisturizing soaps
- Lotions
- Oils
- Alcohol-based products
2. Make Sure the Skin Is Fully Dry
Adhesive doesn’t stick well to moist skin. You can try:
- Patting the skin dry with a soft cloth
- Using a hairdryer on a cool setting for 10–15 seconds
- Allowing the skin to air dry completely before applying your appliance
3. Be Cautious with Barrier Wipes
Barrier wipes can be helpful if your skin is irritated, but overuse or incomplete removal can actually reduce how well your appliance sticks.
- They create a thin protective layer that can build up with repeated use
- This can cause the skin to feel less “tacky”, which makes it harder for the adhesive to stay put
- If your skin is intact, you might try going without barrier wipes for a few days to see if adhesion improves
4. Consider an Assessment by a NSWOC
If you haven’t already, contact a Nurse Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence (NSWOC). They can assess your stoma and the surrounding skin to determine if:
- The skin needs special treatment
- A different product line might work better
- Accessories like barrier rings, powders, or pastes might improve your seal
You can find an NSWOC in your area through this link:
Final Thoughts
Even something as simple as changing your cleansing routine can make a big difference. Try eliminating bar soap for a few days, ensure your skin is fully dry, and reconsider your use of barrier wipes. If these steps don’t help, a NSWOC nurse can offer personalized support.
Answered by
Andrea Manson (BSN, NSWOC, NCA, Retired Nurse and Ostomy Specialist)
Medical and Lifestyle Advisory Team Lead,
Ostomy Canada Society
