Hi everyone. Many ostomates tried their fair share of supplies in the quest for the perfect fit. Recently, some of our customers decided to give Coloplast Brava Barrier Strips a go, and I have some thoughts to share. Let's explore what they are, their pros and cons, and ultimately why many patients are adding them to their regular supply rotation.
What Are Coloplast Brava Barrier Strips?
These flexible strips are designed to go around the edge of your ostomy wafer. They're made of a soft, moldable material that conforms to your skin, providing extra protection and helping prevent leaks.
What customers had to say :
- Security Upgrade: The biggest win for them was increased security. The strips acted like a gasket, making the whole setup feel more robust.
- Skin Protection: If you're prone to skin irritation like some ostomates, the strips create an extra barrier, minimizing issues caused by the adhesive.
- Extended Wear Time: You can get an extra day or two out of each wafer change – a bonus considering these are "low cost" and last longer
- Drawbacks: The downside was application took a bit longer, and sometimes getting the strips to mold perfectly required patience.
Should You Try Them?
- Leak Prone: If leaks are a frustrating issue, these are worth trying.
- Skin Sensitivity: If your skin reacts to adhesives, the strips could be a lifesaver.
- Active Lifestyle: For extra security during sports or swimming, these offer additional peace of mind.
Tips
- Warm Them Up: Slightly warming the strips makes them more pliable and easier to shape.
- Start Slow: Test them with a single strip at first and work up to more if needed.
Coloplast Brava Barrier Strips aren't a magic bullet for every ostomate. However, their potential to improve comfort and prevent leaks makes them a valuable tool in your ostomy care arsenal. If you've been curious, I encourage you to give them a try – they could be the missing piece for a more secure and irritation-free experience.
Have you used Coloplast Brava Barrier Strips? Share your experience in the comments – let's help each other find the best ostomy care solutions!