If you’re using a Freestyle Libre sensor to manage diabetes, you know the importance of keeping your sensor securely adhered to your skin for the full wear period. But did you know that using a skin barrier wipe before applying your adhesive patch cover can significantly improve comfort, durability, and skin protection? Here’s a deeper look at what skin barrier wipes are, how they work, and why they’re worth incorporating into your Freestyle Libre routine.
What Are Skin Barrier Wipes?
Skin barrier wipes are small, pre-moistened towelettes that create a thin, protective film on your skin. Originally designed to protect the skin from adhesive dressings and medical tapes, skin barrier wipes are popular among people who use continuous glucose monitors (CGMs), insulin pumps, and other adhesive medical devices. When applied to the skin, the wipe forms a gentle, transparent layer that acts as a buffer between the adhesive and your skin. This protective layer helps reduce the risk of skin irritation, inflammation, and allergic reactions caused by prolonged adhesive contact.
Why Use Skin Barrier Wipes with Your Freestyle Libre Adhesive Patch?
- Enhanced Sensor Adhesion: Skin barrier wipes can enhance the adhesive properties of your Freestyle Libre patch cover. By creating a clean, even surface for the patch to stick to, the barrier layer helps the adhesive bond more effectively with your skin. This added adhesion means that your patch cover—and, ultimately, your sensor—can stay secure longer, even through activities like swimming, showering, and exercising.
- Protection from Skin Irritation: Wearing any adhesive for days or weeks at a time can cause irritation, especially for people with sensitive skin. Skin barrier wipes form a hypoallergenic shield that minimizes direct contact between your skin and the adhesive. This helps prevent itching, redness, and peeling, making it easier and more comfortable to wear your Freestyle Libre patch cover for the full wear period.
- Improved Skin Health: A common concern with adhesive medical devices is skin damage, especially after multiple sensor changes. Skin barrier wipes help reduce the buildup of dead skin cells and adhesive residue, keeping your skin healthier between sensor applications. This is especially helpful if you regularly use adhesive patches with your Freestyle Libre sensor, as the barrier layer can reduce long-term skin damage and prevent sores from forming.
- Increased Durability During High-Activity Days: If you’re an active person who enjoys sports, swimming, or other physical activities, you know that sweat, friction, and water exposure can weaken adhesive bonds. Skin barrier wipes can reinforce the effectiveness of your patch cover in these situations. The barrier layer helps lock the adhesive in place, keeping your Freestyle Libre sensor secure and functional even through your most active days.
- Easier and Cleaner Removal: When it’s time to change your sensor or patch, removing an adhesive cover can sometimes leave residue or cause skin irritation. A skin barrier layer reduces the amount of adhesive residue left behind, making the patch easier and gentler to remove. This benefit is especially useful for people with sensitive skin, as it reduces the discomfort associated with adhesive removal.
Tips for Using Skin Barrier Wipes with Freestyle Libre Adhesive Patches
If you’re ready to incorporate skin barrier wipes into your Freestyle Libre routine, here are a few quick tips to get the best results:
- Apply to Clean, Dry Skin: Make sure the application area is clean and free from lotions, oils, or sweat before using the wipe. This helps the barrier layer adhere more effectively.
- Allow Time to Dry: After wiping the area, give it a few seconds to fully dry before applying the sensor or patch cover. This ensures a stronger bond between the barrier film and the adhesive.
- Use Hypoallergenic Wipes: Look for skin barrier wipes that are specifically designed for sensitive skin and free from fragrances or chemicals. Medical-grade wipes are ideal, as they’re formulated for frequent use and offer enhanced skin protection.
- Reapply as Needed: If you need to replace your adhesive patch before the end of the sensor’s wear period, it’s helpful to use a fresh barrier wipe each time you apply a new patch. This ensures maximum skin protection and patch adhesion throughout the sensor’s lifespan.
MirTouch Adhesive Patches: Barrier Wipes Included!
MirTouch Adhesive Patches go the extra mile by including skin barrier wipes with every patch pack. These wipes help create a gentle, protective layer on your skin before applying the adhesive patch, reducing the risk of irritation and helping your patch stay secure for longer. Designed with comfort in mind, the barrier wipes enhance adhesion, making the patches more durable even through activities like exercising, swimming, or showering. Including barrier wipes in each pack ensures you get the best performance and skin protection with every patch application—giving you peace of mind and lasting comfort with your Freestyle Libre sensors.
CGM Sensor Adhesive Patches
Final Thoughts
Adhesive patches can enhance your Freestyle Libre continuous glucose monitoring experience. Skin barrier wipes are a small but powerful addition to your Freestyle Libre sensor care routine. They not only enhance the durability of your adhesive patch covers but also provide significant protection against irritation and skin damage. By creating a buffer between your skin and adhesive, barrier wipes make it more comfortable and secure to wear your sensor, helping you make the most out of every sensor cycle.
Give skin barrier wipes a try to see how they can improve both your sensor experience and skin health—making Freestyle Libre management even more effective and comfortable!