Sensor Adhesion information
How can I keep my Dexcom sensor adhered to my body?
Dexcom G6, Dexcom ONE, Dexcom ONE+ and Dexcom G7 are designed to be worn for up to 10 days. Follow the insertion instructions carefully. Extra care may help you keep your sensor on for the entire sensor session.
General tips for improving adhesion
- Do not insert a new sensor before or after a bath / shower or swimming. Allow 60 minutes either side to allow the skin to completely dry and be at room temperature.
- Do not insert a sensor when you are hot or sweaty.
- Avoid inserting sensor just before or just after exercise.
Site selection and preparation
- Remove all traces of old adhesive (see below for advice on removal).
- Choose a site without hair if possible. If needed cut the hair with scissors or lightly trim with electric clippers. Do not use a manual razor as this may increase irritation.
- Avoid scars, tattoos, skin folds and areas that could rub such as your waistband.
- Prior to insertion a gentle clean and exfoliation of the insertion area will remove dead skin cells and may prolong the life of the adhesive.
- Ensure there are no moisturiser or body oils put on the area that is going to be used.
- Sensor site should be flat, clean, and completely dry before you insert the sensor. There should be some fat under the skin at the sensor site.
What can I do if my sensor starts to peel off
There are several solutions for keeping your sensor adhered if it starts to peel. Choose the option that fits you best:
- Trim the peeled parts and put on an overpatch or medical tape for reinforcement.
- Use a medical adhesive to stick down the edges that have lifted.
How do I properly remove the sensor adhesive?
Below is a summary of a clinical article published by clinicians independent from Dexcom, based on their knowledge and experience.
Dexcom has not tested these approaches, nor do we endorse these specific approaches. For detailed step-by-step instructions on how to use your Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) System, please refer to the User Guide.
General Removal Techniques
- Loosen edge of adhesive with fingernail and if necessary, use medical adhesive products to help remove the adhesive from the skin.1
- While removing adhesive, use fingers of opposite hand to push skin down and away from adhesive. Continue to move fingers on skin toward adhesive as it is removed.2
- "Fold back" technique: Remove adhesive slowly, at low angle, folding back on itself.2
- "Stretch and relax" technique: Films that stretch (e.g., IV3000 or Tegaderm) may be stretched horizontally away from the centre (opposite of the fold back technique) while walking fingers under the dressing to continue stretching it. 2
- Use adhesive removal wipes to rub the skin under the tape toward the adhesive as it is removed. This helps loosen adhesive from skin and may help reduce pain with removal.2
- Some wipes are very wet. You can squeeze the fluid directly onto the adhesive first then use the wipe under the adhesive.
* Please refer to Dexcom G6, Dexcom G7, Dexcom ONE and Dexcom ONE+ User Guides which can be found here: https://www.dexcom.com/en-GB/downloadsandguides
1 Messer LH, et al. Preserving Skin Integrity with Chronic Device Use in Diabetes. Diabetes Technol Ther. 2018;20(S2):S254-S264.
2 McNichol L, et al. Medical adhesives and patient safety: state of the science: consensus statements for the assessment, prevention, and treatment of adhesive-related skin injuries. J Wound Ostomy Continence Nurs. 2013;40(4):365-E2.
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