What Are Ostomy Barrier Wipes?

Ostomy barrier wipes are pre-treated, pre-dampened disposable cloths. When wiped on skin, these wipes generate a barrier or film, which coats the skin around a stoma. The coating protects the skin from irritants like bodily waste, adhesives, and friction.

Most ostomy barrier wipes incorporate cleansing ingredients. Antiseptic alcohol-based wipes and alcohol-free wipes are both available. Some wipes also include soothing ingredients like aloe.

This guide details the traits, features, and drawbacks of different barrier wipes, how they work, and how to choose the right wipes for you.

What Are Ostomy Barrier Wipes Used For?

An ostomy pouch is typically changed 2-3 times per week, though it can be required more frequently. Ostomy barrier wipes are applied every time an ostomy pouch is changed. They clean the skin around the stoma and create a protective barrier. 

The protective barrier should last until the next pouch change. The barrier, or film, helps prevent skin irritation and infection. It also makes it easier for the adhesive attaching the ostomy pouch to adhere effectively. 

Key Features of Ostomy Barrier Wipes

Cleansing or Sanitizing (Antiseptic) Ingredients 

Different wipes use different antiseptic ingredients, which kill and prevent the regrowth of microorganisms. 

Antiseptics are anti-microbial, but they do not damage living skin tissue. However, certain antiseptic ingredients can irritate skin or cause allergic reactions in certain individuals. 

Antiseptic ingredients often used in barrier wipes include:

• Povidone-iodine (PVP-1)
• Hexamethyldisiloxane (HMDSO)
• Chlorhexidine (CHG)
• Ethyl alcohol
• Isopropyl alcohol

Barrier-Generating Ingredients, Process

Ostomy barrier wipes and sprays use different ingredients to generate the protective barrier (or film) over the skin. Most barrier products use one or more of these types of ingredients:

• Polymers
• Polymerizing monomers
• Silicones
• Ceramide
• Hyaluronic acid 

Notably, ceramide is a naturally occurring lipid in skin cells. It enhances cell signaling and protects cells from pathogens. Ceramide-infused barrier products recreate these benefits in the generated film. 

Soothing and Analgesic Ingredients 

Ostomy barrier wipes may include ingredients that reduce inflammation, irritation, and skin pain. Soothing ingredients can include:

• Aloe vera
• Chamomile
• Vitamin E
• Hydrocortisone 

Note that barrier wipes typically do not incorporate numbing ingredients like lidocaine or benzocaine. Ongoing skin pain and irritation around a stoma can be a sign of a problem. It’s important to talk to your doctor if that happens. 

Quick Drying (Faster Than Barrier Sprays)

Individuals with ostomy bags may choose to use a barrier spray rather than a wipe. While sprays and wipes often have similar ingredients, and work in similar ways, barrier wipes dry faster.

Sprayed droplets take about 30 seconds to dry and solidify into a film barrier. In contrast, wipes dry in only a few seconds. 

Easy to Use

Ostomy barrier wipes are typically easy to use. They are ready to use right from the package, and they can be disposed of immediately after use. 

How Do Ostomy Barrier Wipes Work?

Ostomy barrier wipes work by cleaning the skin around a stoma by applying antiseptic agents. Then, the wipes generate a protective film, or barrier, which is watertight. 

The film protects the skin surrounding the stoma from the impact of stoma leaks. Without the protective barrier, the skin may become sore, irritated, or infected. 

How To Use Ostomy Barrier Wipes

To use ostomy barrier wipes while changing your pouch, follow six simple steps.

1. After removing the old ostomy pouch, gently wash the skin around the stoma with unscented soap and water. 
   1. Then, pat the skin dry with a clean or sterile towel. 
   2. This removes excess sweat or skin oil. 
2. Wash your hands. 
3. Open the barrier wipe package, and choose one wipe. 
4. Gently wipe the skin around the stomach, applying the barrier-generating ingredients.
5. Wait for the application to dry into a solid film. 
   1. This should take less than 30 seconds. 
6. Dispose of the barrier wipe and continue replacing your stomach pouch. 

Choosing The Right Ostomy Barrier Wipe Product For You

There is a wide range of ostomy barrier wipe products to meet diverse stoma care needs. Consider one of these popular options.

1. Adapt No-Sting Skin Protective Wipes

These barrier wipes use PVP antiseptic and moisturizing Hyaluronic acid to generate the protective film. Plus, soothing aloe reduces irritation. 

As a result, they’re a great choice for dry or dehydrated skin. But, they’re not ideal to protect skin from highly liquid stoma leaks.