v8 inlet manifold composite gasket

Spent this afternoon stripping the carbs and inlet manifold off the V8
and the manifold gasket put up a good fight on removal due to the liberal amount of sealant applied. Due to the makeup of the new composite gasket I presume no sealant need be applied around the water ports ? Manifold is now off to get powder coated so I have time to ponder the question.
Thanks and regards:)

I use a trace of hylomar on the head face only, to facilitate holding the gasket whilst the manifold is dropped into place. These never leak, so it's not really necessary. If you do it that way, the gasket will remain in position if you have to take it off again, and the gasket can be re-used