Are you ready to experience the transformative power of our alginate-powered stoma bags?
Believe it or not, seaweed (a type of algae) has been known to be beneficial to your skin, for a long time now! It was first used to treat sunburn in the 4th century BC, used initially to relieve pain. But it was only two millenniums later, in the 1980’s that seaweed was taken seriously and both the elements and molecules within this weed, were examined in depth and found to have wound healing properties.
This discovery, eventually led to the development of the alginate dressing. It is the marine brown variety of seaweed, which is well known today for providing an anti-inflammatory action, leading to successful healing of damaged skin. Alginates are now widely used for both minor wounds through to more complex wounds, skin grafts and even burns. In more recent years, this alginate property has been introduced into stoma products and is effective in soothing sore and damaged skin surrounding a stoma. Many ostomates have found instant relief to their skin from using an alginate flange/baseplate and they are now using this long term to protect their skin and promote skin integrity.
So, what are the benefits of using our alginate stoma bags?
It all sounds very scientific, but the art behind it all is simple! The alginate flange is slightly thicker than other flanges, so it can absorb more effluent than the hydrocolloid flanges. This then in turn, draws the fluid away from your skin, reducing the potential for irritation and soreness. The anti-inflammatory properties will help reduce inflammation allowing your skin to settle quickly.
It’s hard to know when to consider trying the alginate flange, so if you are unsure here are some ideal scenarios to help guide ostomates in product choice:
Sensitive or allergic reactions
Stoma flanges usually contain hydrocolloids which are skin friendly and help protect the skin around the stoma. For some ostomates who experience sensitive skin or allergies, you may need an alginate product as it is hypo-allergenic to help prevent skin reactions.
Patients undergoing chemotherapy, radiotherapy, or steroid treatment
For those ostomates with vulnerable skin undergoing chemotherapy, using an alginate pouch is comfortable and prevents the skin from become irritated and sore.
Sore, excoriated peristomal skin
At some point most ostomates will experience a dreaded leak from their stoma! It doesn’t take long for the peristomal skin to become irritated, inflamed and feel uncomfortable. The alginate flange soothes this skin immediately without having to reach for barrier creams, sprays, and other accessories.
Moist, bleeding peristomal skin
If the skin around your stoma is bleeding and moist, then the absorbent properties of the alginates will absorb this whilst still maintaining a good adhesion.
Ulcerated peristomal skin, including skin affected by pyoderma gangrenosum
Alginates are documented and recommended for treatment for pyoderma.
Muco-cutaneous separation
The alginate will absorb any local exudate or bleeding and will help to actively heal the affected area.
Stomas which protrude excessive mucous
Mucous causes peristomal soreness. The alginate adhesive actively absorbs the mucus to prevent soreness occurring.
Infected peristomal suture sites
The alginate will absorb puss or serous fluid in the area and will help reduce irritation.
Patients using lots of accessories for problem skin
As all the skin healing properties are within the actual adhesive, this virtually eliminates the need for any accessories. This makes alginate a cost-effective and simpler solution to many skin issues.
Take the first step toward a new level of comfort and confidence, by requesting your FREE samples today.
