When removing the pouch lift a corner and push the skin away from the pouch instead of pulling the pouch away from the skin. Less pain and less skin irritation.
I find that OTC cortisone cream works on itching.
I'm also fair haired, light skinned of Irish descent.

Thank you for your reply. I'll buy the cortisone cream tomorrow. Re removing the pouch - I use an adhesive remover wipe. I lift up top tab and put the wipe under it to loosen the pouch from the skin- very carefully! Then continue all around until the pouch is free to discard. This procedure was from the Ostomy clinic - BUT I still get OUCH. The glue is so strong (thankfully) I don't see any other way to remove it.

If you use a cream doesnt it stop the pouch from adhering I was told that area had to be dry before application In fact I use a blow dryer on it after I clean area

I only use the adhesive remover when I use barrier strips as extra precaution when I go out since they really adhere But I also do not use a barrier skin prep I find when I do I have to use the adhesive to remove it completely

I use Brava spray adhesive remover on my flange to lift it away from my skin, once removed I use the Brava adhesive wipes remover to remove any remaing adhesive then clean with a wet warm paper towel. Let dry then I sprinkle on Stomahesive protective powder along with Brava barrier wipe for better adhesive. few seconds to dry then I put my flange on then bag. Since my skin is very sensitive this is what Stanford Ostomy nurse recommended for me to do. Been doing this for over a year after the home care nurse let my rash develope into a yeast infection. Medicare will not pay for the two Brava wipes but will pay for the spray and powder. Hope this helps.