Avoiding Common Mistakes with Dexcom G6 Patches

Struggling with Dexcom G6 patches? Here's how to ensure they stick, avoid irritation, and last the full 10-day wear period. Proper application and care are key to reliable glucose monitoring. Here's a quick guide:

• Prepare Your Skin Properly: Wash with oil-free soap, dry completely, and avoid lotions or oils before applying the patch.
• Choose the Right Spot: Flat areas like the abdomen or back of the upper arm work best. Avoid spots with scars, folds, or frequent movement.
• Apply Carefully: Press the patch firmly for 30–60 seconds, smoothing out wrinkles or air bubbles.
• Fix Adhesive Problems: Use products like SkinTac or medical tape for reinforcement. Keep the patch dry for the first 12 hours.
• Reduce Skin Irritation: Rotate application sites, use barrier solutions, and moisturize between uses.

Quick Tip:

For extra security and style, try Pump Peelz patches - they provide better coverage and protection while being gentle on sensitive skin.

By following these steps, you can avoid common patch issues and focus on managing your diabetes effectively.

How to Apply the Dexcom G6 Patch 

How to Apply Patches Correctly

Getting a secure and lasting adhesion is essential for effective glucose monitoring. Follow these steps to ensure your Dexcom G6 patch stays in place.

Skin Preparation Steps

Preparing your skin properly is the first step to making the patch stick well. Start by washing the area with an oil-free, antimicrobial soap to remove any oils, lotions, or skincare products. After washing, pat the area dry and gently exfoliate to get rid of dead skin cells. If there's hair in the application area, trim it carefully with a dry razor. This helps avoid irritation and improves contact between your skin and the adhesive.

After prepping your skin, pick the right spot for the sensor to ensure it works properly.

Best Placement Spots

Dexcom recommends specific areas for sensor placement. For most users, the abdomen and the back of the upper arm are ideal. For children aged 2–17, the upper buttocks are also an approved option.

When selecting a spot, go for a flat area that avoids waistbands and regions with scar tissue. Choose a place that's less likely to get bumped during daily activities. Also, consider your sleeping position to ensure comfort.

Patch Application Tips

To make sure the patch stays in place, follow these steps:

1. Clean the chosen spot twice - first with soap and water, then with an alcohol wipe.
2. Let the skin dry completely before moving to the next step.
3. After removing the label, press the applicator firmly onto the skin for 30–60 seconds.
4. Smooth the patch outward from the center three times to remove any wrinkles or air bubbles.

If your skin tends to be oily or prone to moisture, apply the patch in the morning after showering. This is when your skin is least oily. Keep the area dry and avoid activities that cause sweating until the adhesive has fully set.

Different skin types may require varying drying times, so give the adhesive enough time to bond before engaging in physical activities or exposing the patch to water.

Fixing Adhesive Problems

Ensuring your sensor stays securely in place requires proper patch application and addressing adhesive issues effectively.

Why Patches Come Loose

Several factors can cause patches to lose their grip:

• Excess moisture: Sweat or water can weaken the adhesive.
• Improper skin preparation: Oils, lotions, or leftover adhesive from previous patches may interfere with sticking.
• Poor placement: Applying patches on areas with folds or frequent movement can lead to lifting.
• Environmental factors: Humidity and temperature changes can affect adhesion.

Making Patches Stick Better

Follow these steps to improve adhesion and keep your patch secure:

1. Pre-application preparation
   Clean the area thoroughly and remove any leftover adhesive using products like Uni-solve or Detachol. Make sure your skin is completely dry before applying the patch.
2. Improving adhesion
   Use a medical adhesive like SkinTac or Mastisol around (but not on) the insertion site. Allow it to dry fully before placing the sensor.
3. Ongoing care
   If the patch gets wet, gently pat it dry. For active users, reinforce the edges with medical tape to prevent lifting.

Using Pump Peelz Patches

Pump Peelz patches are a great option for secure adhesion and added style, especially for Dexcom G6 users. These patches:

• Use medical-grade adhesive suitable for sensitive skin.
• Extend beyond the sensor edges for better coverage and protection.
• Come in customizable designs without compromising functionality.

For best results, apply the Pump Peelz patch immediately after inserting your sensor. Smooth it outward from the center to eliminate air bubbles and ensure full contact with your skin. Make sure the patch covers the sensor area without interfering with the transmitter connection.

Making Patches Last Longer

Protecting During Exercise and Activity

Keeping your patch secure during physical activities is crucial. Sweat and movement can loosen the adhesive, so take steps to reinforce it. After inserting the sensor, firmly press around the edges to ensure a solid grip. Adding medical tape right away can help keep the patch in place during workouts or other activities.

Guarding Against Water and Weather

Water and weather can weaken the adhesive, so it's important to take precautions. The Dexcom G6 system is designed to handle submersion up to 8 ft (2.4 m) for 24 hours. To keep your sensor safe:

• Double-check that the transmitter is secured before swimming or showering.
• Keep your display device close by while in water.
• Replace performance covers as needed to maintain protection.

Adding Protective Covers

Protective covers can give your patch extra staying power. Products like Pump Peelz covers are designed to work with your adhesive strategy. These covers:

• Extend past the sensor edges to shield against moisture, weather, and other external factors.
• Help regulate sensor temperature for more reliable readings.

"Peelz patches keep your CGM and pump secure so you can focus on what you love - without the worry." – Pump Peelz Website

Solving Common Issues

Reducing Skin Irritation

Some people experience skin irritation from the Dexcom G6 patches. This is often due to the medical-grade, acrylic-based adhesive used in the patches. Here are a few ways to reduce irritation:

• Rotate application sites: Avoid reusing the same spot back-to-back. This gives your skin time to recover.
• Moisturize between uses: Keep your skin hydrated, but avoid applying any products on the insertion site on the day of application.
• Try a barrier solution: Products like No-Sting Skin Prep can create a protective layer between your skin and the adhesive.

Fixing Loose Patches

If your patch starts peeling or loses adhesion, here’s how you can fix it:

1. If the patch begins to peel, apply a small amount of Skin Tac to the loose area. Let it dry before pressing the patch back into place.
2. For patches that need extra reinforcement, use medical tapes like:
   • Hypafix: Works well in wet conditions, even during swimming.
   • Blenderm or Transpore Surgical Tape: Great for securing edges.
   • IV3000: A gentler option for those with sensitive skin.

Fixing Connection Problems

Connectivity issues can disrupt your readings, but these steps can help:

• Check the transmitter placement: Make sure the transmitter is fully clicked into the sensor cradle. You should hear one or two clicks when it’s secure.
• Adjust device settings: Keep Bluetooth and location services turned on, and ensure the Dexcom app is running in the background.
• Stay within range: Keep your phone within 20 feet of the sensor and avoid physical barriers.

The transmitter can store up to 3 hours of data, so brief signal losses aren’t a major issue. For ongoing problems, try toggling Bluetooth, waiting 10 minutes, restarting your phone, and removing old sensor pairings.

These solutions can help ensure consistent readings, making it easier to manage your diabetes effectively.

Conclusion

Using the Dexcom G6 effectively starts with proper skin preparation and consistent care for the adhesive patch. Studies reveal that 85% of CGM users have faced issues with adhesives, making the right techniques essential.

Here are some tips to help your patch stay secure:

• Clean and dry the skin using soap, water, and an alcohol wipe before application.
• Apply the sensor at night to let the adhesive set while you rest.
• Press firmly for 30–60 seconds, smoothing the edges to ensure it stays in place.

"We have received testimonies from countless customers about how our products have saved their skin from painful reactions"

The longevity of your patch depends on how well it's applied and maintained. Following these steps can improve sensor reliability and make managing diabetes a little easier.