ConvaTec vs. Hollister: Which brand should you buy? [2026]

ConvaTec is known for its high-tech, premium medical solutions with advanced features designed for complex needs, while Hollister focuses on providing reliable, affordable, and user-friendly products for everyday use. ConvaTec commands a higher price for its innovation in skin protection and durability, whereas Hollister stands out for its accessibility and straightforward, practical designs.

Let's break down everything you need to know to choose the right ostomy, wound, and continence care brand for your needs.

ConvaTec: The Leader in Advanced Medical Solutions

ConvaTec is a global leader in medical products, trusted by healthcare professionals for its clinical excellence and patient-centered solutions. The brand is built on innovation, developing advanced wound dressings, ostomy systems, and continence products that enhance comfort, protect skin integrity, and improve the user's quality of life. Their target user often has complex or sensitive needs and is willing to invest in premium features for better performance and longer wear times.

• Product mix: Specializes in advanced ostomy systems, innovative hydrocolloid wound dressings, critical care items, and continence management supplies. Known for leading technology in skin barriers and adhesion.
• Price point: Positioned in the mid-to-high range. An advanced ostomy kit, for example, can range from $50 to $150, reflecting its premium materials and features.
• Quality: Renowned for superior, clinically researched materials. Products feature skin-friendly adhesives, effective odor control, moisture management, and durable construction for secure, long-lasting use.
• Design &, Fit: Designs are sleek, modern, and discreet, intended to be worn comfortably under clothing. ConvaTec offers many customizable options and detailed sizing guides to ensure a precise, secure fit for different body types and stoma sizes.

ConvaTec is the go-to for users who need a high-performance, technologically advanced product backed by clinical research and are prepared for a higher price point.

Shop ConvaTec: convatec.com

Hollister: The Accessible & Reliable Choice

Hollister is a globally recognized brand that makes ostomy, wound, and continence care accessible and affordable. Their philosophy focuses on empowering users with dependable, discreet, and comfortable products that support an active lifestyle without introducing complexity. From beginners to long-time users, Hollister's customer is often budget-conscious and values practical, easy-to-use solutions that consistently perform well.

• Product mix: Offers a comprehensive line of ostomy pouches, skin barriers, wound dressings, and urinary management supplies. Product design prioritizes ease of application and removal.
• Price point: Known for budget-friendly pricing. A pack of basic ostomy pouches typically costs between $20 and $40, making it an excellent option for long-term, cost-effective care.
• Quality: Provides reliable quality with materials that emphasize skin comfort and secure attachment. While less technologically complex than some premium alternatives, Hollister products meet all industry standards for safety and effectiveness.
• Design &, Fit: Product designs are straightforward, practical, and functional. Hollister offers a wide variety of standard sizes and shapes that fit most users well, though they have fewer of the highly customized options found in premium brands.

Hollister delivers dependable, easy-to-use products at an affordable price, making it ideal for users who prioritize value and simplicity.

Shop Hollister: hollister.com

ConvaTec vs. Hollister Comparison

Price Comparison

The most significant difference between the two brands is price. ConvaTec positions itself as a premium brand, with its innovative technology and advanced materials justifying a higher cost. An advanced ostomy kit might run from $50 to $150. This is geared toward users who require specialized features and are willing to pay for them, often with the help of insurance coverage.

Hollister is the clear winner on affordability. With basic ostomy pouches priced between $20-$40, the brand provides reliable solutions that significantly lower the financial burden of long-term care. For users who don't need highly advanced features, Hollister offers outstanding value without compromising on necessary quality.

Quality & Materials

ConvaTec has a reputation for superior quality, heavily investing in research to develop materials like its state-of-the-art hydrocolloid skin barriers that provide excellent adhesion while promoting skin health. Their pouches are durable, feature advanced odor-control filters, and are designed for longer wear times, which can be critical for users with sensitive skin or active lifestyles.

Hollister products are well-made and reliable, meeting all necessary industry performance standards. Their skin barriers and pouches are praised for their comfort and gentle adhesion, successfully minimizing irritation for most users. However, they may not incorporate the same cutting-edge technologies as ConvaTec, focusing instead on consistent performance with proven materials.

Design & Fit

ConvaTec emphasizes a sleek, modern aesthetic aimed at maximum discreetness. Their products are often slimmer and designed to fit closely to the body, making them nearly invisible under a variety of clothing. The brand provides a greater degree of customization, with highly specific sizing options and flexible flanges to ensure a perfect, comfortable fit for unique body contours.

Hollister opts for functional and practical designs. Their products are straightforward and easy to apply, which is a key advantage for new users or those with dexterity challenges. While their selection of sizes and shapes is broad enough to accommodate most people, it focuses on standard fits rather than the highly specialized and customizable options offered by ConvaTec.

Shopping Experience

ConvaTec products are typically distributed through healthcare providers, specialty pharmacies, and medical supply stores. Their website is a comprehensive resource for product education and clinical support, connecting users with professional guidance to find the right solution.

Hollister products are widely available through hospitals, commercial pharmacies, and numerous online retailers. Their website is designed for the end-user, with easy-to-navigate product catalogs and practical support resources that empower patients to manage their care confidently.

Which One Should You Choose?

Both brands are trusted leaders in medical care, but they serve different user priorities.

Choose ConvaTec if:

• You have sensitive skin or complex medical needs that require advanced skin barrier technology.
• You prioritize the most innovative features, such as enhanced durability and superior odor control.
• Your primary concern is finding a sleek, discreet product that is nearly invisible under clothes.
• Your budget (or insurance plan) accommodates a premium price for higher-end features.

Choose Hollister if:

• You are budget-conscious and need a cost-effective, long-term solution.
• You prefer simple, straightforward products that are practical and easy to apply.
• You are new to ostomy or wound care and want a reliable brand that isn't overwhelming.
• You value widespread availability at pharmacies and online retailers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is ConvaTec or Hollister more expensive?

ConvaTec is generally more expensive. Its products are positioned in the mid-to-high price range due to their advanced materials and innovative features. Hollister is known as the more budget-friendly option, offering dependable products at a lower cost.

Which brand is better for sensitive skin?

While both brands make skin-friendly products, ConvaTec is often recommended for users with highly sensitive skin. Their investment in hydrocolloid technology and advanced, gentle adhesives is specifically designed to minimize irritation and protect skin integrity over long wear times.

Are Hollister products good quality?

Yes, Hollister products are considered high-quality and reliable. While they may not include the same advanced technologies as more premium brands, they meet all industry safety and effectiveness standards and are trusted by healthcare professionals and users worldwide.

Which pouch system is more discreet under clothing?

ConvaTec products are typically designed to be more sleek and slim-fitting, which many users find more discreet under clothing. Hollister focuses more on functional design, which is still discreet but may not be as low-profile as some of ConvaTec's offerings.

Where can I buy ConvaTec and Hollister products?

Hollister is widely available in pharmacies, hospitals, and through numerous online medical supply retailers. ConvaTec is also available through these channels but is often distributed directly through healthcare providers and specialty medical suppliers.

Which brand is better for beginners?

Many find Hollister to be a great choice for beginners due to the simplicity and practical design of their products. The straightforward application process and lower cost make it easier to learn and experiment without a large financial commitment.

Are both brands covered by insurance?

Both ConvaTec and Hollister are major brands whose products are often covered by Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurance plans. However, coverage varies widely, so it's essential to check with your specific insurance provider to understand your benefits.

Can I get samples from either company?

Yes, both companies often provide samples of their products, usually through healthcare providers like an ostomy nurse or via requests on their official websites. Trying samples is the best way to determine which product fits your body and lifestyle best.