Stoma powder is a specialized, non-medicated powder designed to protect the skin surrounding a stoma, known as peristomal skin. This product helps maintain skin health and prevent irritation, which can arise from moisture or leakage from the stoma. By creating a protective layer, stoma powder helps to support the skin’s integrity. It is distinct from other powders like baby powder or body talc and should not be used interchangeably.
Understanding Stoma Powder’s Purpose
Stoma powder serves to absorb excess moisture from raw or broken skin around the stoma. This is particularly beneficial when the skin is weeping or irritated due to exposure to stoma output. The powder’s ability to absorb moisture helps to dry the skin, which in turn promotes healing and prevents further skin breakdown. It also creates a more suitable surface for the ostomy appliance’s adhesive, improving its ability to stick and reducing the likelihood of leaks.
Essential Supplies for Application
Applying stoma powder effectively requires specific items. You will need the stoma powder itself, often in a puff bottle. A clean, soft cloth or gauze is necessary for gently cleaning and drying the peristomal skin before application and for dusting off excess powder. A mirror can also be helpful for better visibility. Finally, ensure you have your ostomy appliance components readily available for reapplication after the powder is applied.
Step-by-Step Stoma Powder Application
Begin by thoroughly cleaning the peristomal skin with mild soap and water, then pat the area completely dry with a soft cloth. It is important that the skin is dry before applying the powder to ensure proper adhesion of your ostomy appliance. Once the skin is dry, gently shake a small amount of stoma powder directly onto any raw, irritated, or moist areas of the skin around the stoma. The powder is designed to stick to these moist, compromised areas.
Use a clean, dry finger or a soft tissue to gently pat or spread the powder evenly over the affected skin. The goal is to create a thin, even layer that covers the irritated areas without leaving excessive amounts on healthy skin. After patting, carefully brush or dust off any excess powder. This step is important because too much powder can interfere with the adhesive of your ostomy barrier, potentially leading to poor adhesion and leaks.
Tips for Optimal Stoma Powder Use
Applying a light dusting of stoma powder is generally more effective. After applying and dusting off the excess powder, some individuals find it beneficial to apply a skin barrier wipe or spray over the powdered area. This technique, sometimes called “crusting,” can help to seal the powder onto the skin and create a smoother surface, potentially improving the adhesion of the ostomy barrier. It is important to allow any barrier wipe or spray to dry completely before applying the ostomy wafer.
Stoma powder is meant for acute irritation and should be discontinued once the skin has healed and is no longer moist. If skin irritation persists, worsens, or does not improve with the use of stoma powder, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional, such as an ostomy nurse.