Welcome back to our series about ostomy items available here on TotalHomeCareSupplies.com. Today we’re going to take a look an ostomy accessory item, paste. Paste is used by those with ostomies to fill in (or caulk) the uneven skin that may exist in the stoma area, in order to create a better seal for the bag. A flat skin surface is ideal for a great flange seal, and the paste can be used to prevent any output drainage from getting under the pouch seal.

On Total Home Care Supplies, we sell a two ounce tube of Adapt paste, which should last most ostomates at least a couple of months (depending on how much paste they use during each bag change and how often they change their bag).

The paste can be used on the skin barrier or on the skin itself, or both. It’s up to the individual to determine how best the paste can be utilized. Some people find that the paste works best when it’s been allowed to “set” for a few minutes, so you can either apply it to your new skin barrier piece before you remove your old pouch, or, if applying to your skin, you can put it on first thing after cleaning your skin and have it on while allowing your skin some drying time. Make sure you clean and dry your skin well before applying the paste or other ostomy products.

Please keep in mind that the paste does not have any adhesive properties to it, and too much paste may affect the seal. Also, the paste does contain alcohol, which may sting to irritated skin. Please alert your health care professional to any irritated skin you may have, as it is not normal to have that skin issue.

What are the best uses you’ve found for the Hollister Adapt Paste? Tell us in the comments!