Ostomy Supplies: Buying Guide

Quick answer: an ostomy system has two parts: a skin barrier (wafer) that sticks around the stoma and a pouch that collects output. In a one-piece system they are joined; in a two-piece system the pouch snaps or sticks onto a separate barrier. The right choice depends on the stoma type, the shape of the skin around it, and how often you want to change the barrier. Your ostomy (WOC) nurse is the best person to confirm the fit.

Choose by stoma and output type

Stoma	Usual pouch	Why
Ileostomy (loose output)	Drainable	Emptied several times a day
Colostomy (formed output)	Drainable or closed-end	Closed-end pouches are thrown away when full
Urostomy (urine)	Urostomy pouch with tap	Tap drains urine; can connect to a night drainage bag

One-piece vs two-piece

One-piece (for example Esteem+ One-Piece Moldable Drainable or ActiveLife One-Piece Drainable): lower profile and simpler to apply. The whole unit is changed together.
Two-piece (for example Natura+ Two-Piece Drainable): the barrier stays on for days while the pouch can be changed separately. The flange size of the pouch must match the barrier.

Flat vs convex barriers

A flat barrier suits a stoma that sticks out above the skin on a fairly flat abdomen. A convex barrier presses gently on the skin around the stoma and is often used when the stoma is flush with or below the skin, or the area has creases. Products like the Esteem Body Soft Convex and Esteem+ Flex Convex use soft convexity. Ask your nurse before switching to convex.

Barrier materials and sensitive skin

Barriers differ in how long they hold up against output. ConvaTec's Durahesive barriers are designed for extended wear with liquid output and urine; Stomahesive barriers are a standard-wear option. Moldable barriers, such as Natura Durahesive Moldable, are shaped by hand to hug the stoma without cutting. For sore or leaking skin, accessories help seal and protect:

Barrier rings to fill gaps and uneven skin
Paste to caulk small gaps
Barrier powder for moist, irritated skin
Barrier strips to secure the edge of the wafer
Pouch deodorants for odor control

How to size the barrier opening

Measure the stoma with the measuring guide that comes in the box.
Cut the opening slightly larger than the stoma, commonly about 1/8 in (3 mm), so the barrier protects the skin without touching the stoma. Moldable barriers stretch to fit instead.
Re-measure in the first weeks after surgery; stomas usually shrink as swelling goes down.

Frequently asked questions

How often should an ostomy barrier be changed?

It varies by product, output and skin. Many people change every few days. Change sooner if you feel itching, burning or see leakage under the barrier, and follow your nurse's advice.

Which ostomy wafer is best for sensitive skin?

There is no single best wafer. A barrier that fits closely and does not leak usually protects skin better than switching brands. Rings, powder and correct sizing often fix irritation. Ask your WOC nurse to look at the skin.

Can I mix brands in a two-piece system?

Generally no. Pouches and barriers must be from the same system and flange size to seal.

Browse all ostomy supplies, ostomy skin care and urostomy pouches. Read our stoma care guide, or call 1-800-494-5750.

General information only. Always follow the instructions of your surgeon and ostomy nurse.

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Updated October 2026.