In the UK, a reported 165,000 to 200,000 people are living with a stoma. One of the many challenges of stoma use is protecting against moisture-associated skin damage (MASD) and skin maceration. 

Since it’s always better to prevent damage before it occurs rather than treating it after the fact, those with stomas should use Medicareplus Barrier Film as part of their daily stoma care routine. But finding the right application method is key to providing the right care for you in every possible situation. 

So, what barrier film application options are out there?  Let’s take a closer look at what barrier film is and the different methods for applying it. 

What is a Barrier Film?

Barrier film is a silicone-based medical-grade liquid that forms a uniform, protective layer when evenly applied to the skin. 

Thanks to the resilient, hydrophobic protective barrier that it offers, barrier film prevents irritation from bodily fluids to offer long-lasting protection from mild to moderate skin damage. Even if there is already some skin damage around the stoma site, the Medi Derma-S barrier film non-sting formulation means that it protects both damaged and intact skin without pain or discomfort during application. 

Barrier film also contains no alcohol, fragrance, latex, parabens, or phthalates, making it suitable for everyone, including paediatric patients. And, since it dries in seconds, barrier film is quick and easy to use both at home and away. 

Different Barrier Film Application Methods

The complete Medi Derma-S barrier film range includes four different application methods — aerosol, pump, wipes, and sterile applicators. Here’s a little information about each to help you decide on the right choice for you.

Barrier Film Aerosol 

The total barrier film aerosol is a popular choice for home stoma use. Some features and benefits of the aerosol spray are:

• Comes in a 50 ml size aerosol spray
• Quick and simple to apply
• Allows for instant, full coverage
• Easy to spray from any angle, making it ideal if you’re out and about

Barrier Film Pump Spray

The total barrier film pump spray offers an alternative dispenser method with the following features and benefits:

• Comes in a 30 ml size pump bottle
• Allows for greater control over the amount of product used
• Precise application area
• Easy and gentle to apply with clean hands

Barrier Film Sterile Applicators

• These total barrier film sterile applicators offer the following features and benefits: 
•  
• Individual sachets come in two sizes — 1 ml and 3 ml
• Available as single or five-packs for each size
• Individually-packaged applicators are completely sterile 
• Allow for precise application of the film, making them ideal for smaller sites
• Disposable and easy to use wherever you are 

Comparing Barrier Film Applicators and Wipes in Stoma Care

As this quick guide shows, barrier film is a must for protecting the skin and preventing MASD. But, when choosing between barrier film wipes, applicators, aerosols, and pump spray, it’s important to consider the specific advantages of each option. 

For example, while the pump spray is more suitable for home stoma care, wipes or sterile applicators are more convenient for use on the go. Or, while the aerosol offers quick and maximum coverage, you can achieve greater precision with the pump spray or sterile applicators. With this in mind, you’d likely need several different options to cover all bases for optimal stoma care in every situation. 

For more information on stoma care and choosing the right barrier film for you, feel free to contact us here at Medicareplus today.