If you’ve ever struggled to get your CGM or insulin pump tape to last the full wear time, you’re not alone and we’re here to help. At ExpressionMed, we’ve spent the last 9 years listening to customer feedback from hundreds of thousands of users. If there’s a wear-time issue out there, we’ve heard about it and more importantly, we’ve worked to solve it.
While we’re confident we’ve developed the perfect material for device comfort and longevity, the truth is that perfect wear time is a balance of three key elements:
Material Quality
Skin Quality
External Environment
Let’s break each of these down so you can get the most out of every single wear. If you are a visual learner, watch the full breakdown we created on our YouTube below! https://youtu.be/by9BeRqBgfk?si=V6Oi27DypIpPaa3q
We wish we could say our tape always sticks flawlessly no matter what. But even the best adhesive can struggle under the wrong conditions. Here’s how to make sure the tape material itself isn’t the issue.
Open-Air Storage
Our tapes are breathable and thin, which makes them ultra-comfortable but also vulnerable to drying out if exposed to open air for too long.
Tip: Always store unused tapes in their original sealed polybags or an airtight container (even if you’re displaying them in a cute collection book!).
Extreme Heat or Cold
Tapes can withstand heat during wear, like in a sauna or on a sweaty hike. But long-term exposure to high or low temperatures during storage can degrade the adhesive.
Allergens Like Pet Hair or Pollen
You might not notice allergens day-to-day, but they can cause reactions when trapped under tape for days. Store tapes in airtight containers if you have pets or keep your windows open often.
Touching the Adhesive
Skin oils and dead cells interfere with stickiness. Once the adhesive touches skin and is lifted off, it's compromised.
Fix: If you accidentally touch the sticky side, apply Skin Tac to restore adhesion.
Stretching the Tape During Application
Stretching creates mechanical tension. Not only is it uncomfortable, but also reduces wear time.
Fix: Lay the tape down gently without pulling.
Pro Tip: Apply the tape with your body in its natural resting position (e.g., relaxed arm at your side).
Folds or Gaps During Application
Imperfect applications create openings where water can seep in, causing the tape to lift.
Fix: Use Skin Tac to press folds down or patch small lifts before they worsen.
Everyone’s skin is different. Some people struggle with tapes falling off early; others say it sticks too well. The key is knowing your skin type and prepping it properly.
Oily Skin: Use oil-blotting sheets from a beauty store. If the paper turns translucent on contact, you’re oily.
Dry Skin: Lightly scratch your skin with a comb. If it flakes like dandruff, it’s dry.
Perfect Base: If you don’t see flakes or oil, congrats!! You’ve got ideal skin for adhesion.
Oil breaks down adhesive fast. Here’s how to prep oily skin:
Wash with soap and water
Wipe with rubbing alcohol
(Optional) Finish with an oil-removing toner
You can do all of those steps, in that particular order if you have very oily skin
Avoid: Moisturizing soaps, alcohol with fragrance, or emollients. They add oils back to the skin.
💡 Important: Let your skin completely dry before applying tape. Moisture left behind can ruin adhesion instantly.
Dry skin can also reduce wear time due to dead skin buildup and irritation.
Fix:
Exfoliate before application to remove dead skin cells.
Skip alcohol wipes (they can worsen dryness).
Clean with a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser like Vanicream Gentle Cleanser.
Let skin dry for 10+ minutes before applying the tape.
Moisturize when not wearing a device with a hydrating product like La Roche-Posay Toleriane Hydrating Cleanser. But never right before applying tape.
Once your tape is fully adhered, it’s built to withstand almost anything!! From ocean dives to sand dunes to hot tubs. But the first 24 hours are crucial.
First 6 Hours:
The adhesive is still bonding. Avoid sweating, twisting, or water exposure.
6 to 24 Hours:
Adhesive sets and solidifies. Now it’s tough and secure.
After 24 Hours:
Skin begins its natural shedding process underneath the tape, gradually weakening the bond over time (especially near day 10-14).
🛑 Don’t remove tape too aggressively if you have a short wear time on your device. This is when people report it being “too strong.” The adhesive hasn’t softened naturally yet.
Avoid oils near your tape. Sunscreens, lotions, and massage oils can cause lifting especially if applied before or around your device.
Check for folds early. Fix them right away with Skin Tac before they lead to peeling or water/sweat seeping in.
Relax during application. Apply tape in a natural body position to avoid mechanical tension.
Be gentle when removing short device wear time. If you must remove before the full wear time or your device only requires a three day wear, use oil to ease the process without skin damage.
Getting your CGM or pump tape to stay on perfectly isn't just about the tape itself. It’s about how you store it, prep your skin, and treat it in the first 24 hours.
By understanding your skin type, storing your adhesives correctly, and respecting that crucial bonding window, you’ll set yourself up for success! You will get the most comfort and security out of every wear.
Do you have a tip or product that works for you that we didn't mention? Let us know! ExpressionMed was built on real feedback from real users. Your insights help us all stick together better 💪
