Why Flat FlexWear Barrier for 2-Piece Systems

The Flat FlexWear skin barrier provides the foundation for Hollister's 2-piece ostomy system, adhering directly to peristomal skin and worn for 3–5 days while pouches are changed as needed. The flat profile offers comfortable adhesion for regular or protruding stomas without applying additional pressure, ideal for stomas that sit at or above skin level. FlexWear hydrocolloid formulation balances secure, long-lasting adhesion with gentle removal to protect delicate peristomal skin. The larger 1¾" (44 mm) cut-to-fit opening accommodates medium to larger stomas, while the 2¼" (57 mm) flange provides secure coupling with compatible New Image pouches. The 2-piece system allows multiple pouch changes without removing the barrier, reducing skin trauma from repeated adhesive application.

Key Features & Benefits

• Flat (non-convex) design provides comfortable seal for regular or protruding stomas
• FlexWear hydrocolloid adhesive delivers dependable 3–5 day wear time
• Cut-to-fit opening up to 1¾" (44 mm) accommodates medium to larger stomas
• 2¼" (57 mm) flange compatible with Hollister New Image 2-piece pouches
• Skin-friendly formulation protects peristomal skin from output exposure
• Flexible design conforms naturally to body contours and movements
• Gentle removal reduces trauma to delicate peristomal skin
• Secure mechanical coupling provides confident pouch attachment
• 2-piece system allows pouch changes without barrier removal
• Box of 5 barriers supports 2–4 weeks of management

Clinical Applications

Appropriate for:

✓ Colostomy or ileostomy users with regular or protruding stomas ✓ Medium to larger stomas requiring up to 1¾" (44 mm) opening ✓ Patients requiring reliable 3–5 day barrier wear time ✓ Users preferring 2-piece systems over 1-piece ✓ Patients with sensitive peristomal skin needing gentle adhesive ✓ Active individuals needing flexible, body-conforming barriers ✓ Users requiring frequent pouch changes without barrier removal ✓ Daily ostomy management at home or work

Important: Flat barriers are designed for regular or protruding stomas. Flush or retracted stomas may require convex barriers for proper sealing. Consult with ostomy nurse for proper product selection and flange size compatibility.

Usage & Application - Patient Guidance

For 2-Piece Ostomy System Under Healthcare Provider Direction: This skin barrier is designed to adhere to peristomal skin and serve as the base for Hollister New Image pouches as instructed by your healthcare provider or ostomy nurse. Proper training ensures safe, effective use.

Understanding the 2-Piece System:

• Skin barrier (baseplate): Adheres to peristomal skin, worn 3–5 days
• Pouch: Attaches to barrier flange, changed as needed (daily or multiple times)
• Benefit: Change pouches without removing barrier, protecting skin

Preparation:

• Gather supplies: new barrier, scissors, measuring guide, skin cleanser if prescribed
• Remove old barrier and pouch carefully
• Clean stoma and peristomal skin gently with warm water
• Pat skin completely dry before applying new barrier
• Measure stoma size using measuring guide (stomas can change size over time)
• Inspect skin for redness, irritation, or breakdown

Cutting & Sizing:

• This barrier accommodates stomas up to 1¾" (44 mm) diameter
• Trace stoma measurement onto white cutting guide on barrier backing
• Cut opening approximately 1/8" (2–3 mm) larger than stoma size
• Cutting too small can damage stoma; too large risks skin exposure to output
• Ensure smooth, clean cuts with no jagged edges
• Start with smaller opening if uncertain—can always enlarge if needed
• Re-measure stoma monthly or if body weight changes significantly

Application Technique:

• Remove protective paper backing from adhesive
• Warm barrier between hands for 30–60 seconds to improve adherence
• Center opening over stoma while standing or in preferred position
• Apply from bottom up to avoid air pockets
• Press adhesive firmly, starting at stoma and working outward in circular motion
• The flat barrier should conform smoothly to skin without creating pressure
• Hold firm pressure for 2–3 minutes to ensure secure seal
• Check that entire adhesive edge is well-sealed
• Run finger around entire barrier perimeter to verify adhesion
• Wait 30–60 seconds before attaching pouch to allow adhesive to set

Attaching the Pouch:

• Ensure barrier flange is clean, dry, and free from output
• Align pouch flange (2¼"/57 mm) with barrier flange carefully
• Press firmly until you hear/feel secure click or snap
• Gently tug to verify connection
• Refer to pouch-specific instructions for attachment details

Barrier Changing Schedule:

• Change barrier every 3–5 days or as recommended by ostomy nurse
• Change sooner if adhesive begins loosening or lifting
• Change immediately if leakage occurs under barrier
• Never wear barrier longer than recommended wear time
• Monitor skin condition at each change
• Some users achieve 5–7 days with proper technique and skin care

Removing the Barrier:

• Empty and remove pouch first
• Support skin with one hand while gently peeling barrier
• Remove slowly and carefully to minimize skin trauma
• Use barrier removal spray or wipes if recommended by nurse
• Remove in direction of hair growth when possible
• Never pull or tear barrier off quickly
• Clean any adhesive residue gently with warm water

Signs Barrier Needs Changing:

• Edges lifting or rolling
• Adhesive weakening or becoming sticky
• Output leaking under barrier edge
• Burning or itching sensation under barrier
• Barrier no longer conforming to body contours
• Visible skin exposure around stoma

Skin Care:

• Inspect peristomal skin at each barrier change
• Healthy skin should match surrounding skin color
• Report redness, irritation, breakdown, or changes to healthcare provider
• Allow skin to air dry completely before applying new barrier
• Use prescribed skin barriers, powders, or protective products as directed
• Avoid lotions, oils, or products not recommended by ostomy nurse
• Keep skin clean and dry between changes

Troubleshooting Common Issues:

• Barrier lifting early: May need different adhesive formulation or convex barrier
• Skin irritation: Output may be contacting skin; ensure proper sizing and fit
• Difficulty achieving seal: May need skin prep products or different barrier style
• Adhesive too aggressive: Use barrier removal products, apply moisturizer after removal
• Barrier melting or eroding: May indicate high output or need for barrier paste/rings

When to Contact Healthcare Provider or Ostomy Nurse:

• Persistent barrier adhesion problems or early lifting
• Skin redness, irritation, rash, or breakdown around stoma
• Stoma bleeding beyond slight spotting during cleaning
• Change in stoma appearance, size, or color
• Stoma becoming flush or retracted (may need convex barrier)
• Output leaking under barrier despite proper application
• Allergic reaction to barrier materials
• Pain or burning under barrier
• Difficulty cutting or applying barrier
• Questions about proper barrier selection or technique

Product Specifications

• Brand: Hollister
• Product Line: New Image
• System Type: 2-Piece Skin Barrier
• Barrier Style: Flat (Non-Convex)
• Adhesive Type: FlexWear hydrocolloid
• Opening: Cut-to-Fit up to 1¾" (44 mm)
• Flange Size: 2¼" (57 mm)
• Flange Type: Mechanical coupling for New Image pouches
• Wear Time: 3–5 days per barrier
• Materials: Skin-friendly hydrocolloid, latex-free
• Compatibility: Hollister New Image 2-piece pouches (2¼" flange)
• Quantity: Box of 5 skin barriers
• Stoma Types: Colostomy, ileostomy
• Best For: Regular or protruding stomas, medium to larger sizes
• Profile: Flat/non-convex

The Hollister New Image Flat FlexWear Skin Barrier combines dependable FlexWear hydrocolloid adhesion with larger cut-to-fit capacity up to 1¾"—providing users with medium to larger regular or protruding stomas secure, comfortable 3–5 day protection as the foundation for their 2-piece ostomy system with gentle removal for healthy peristomal skin.