How to make the sensor stick better? 7 tips to avoid losing your CGM.
Applying a sensor for the first time is very exciting. You are so close to seeing what happens inside your body and exploring our programs in the Hello Inside App. However, sometimes the sensor comes off just a few hours or days after application and you were definitely not ready to say goodbye to it. You were just getting started. Well, there can be many reasons for that but we collected some tips for you to make sure your sensor sticks well and you can enjoy the full 14 days of exploration.
Which CGM sensor is Hello Inside using?
We use an Abbott FreeStyle Libre 2 sensor with our Hello Inside App. Each of these sensors lasts for 14 days. You can easily and quickly apply the sensor to the back of your upper arm. The sensor is water resistant, and you can do sports with it. You can find more information on the sensor in our help center.
Especially, if you move a lot, do lots of sports and if it’s hot outside (you sweat a lot), it’s important to ensure the sensor sticks well on your arm after applying it. We collected some tips for you to make your sensor stick better and prevent it from falling off before the 14 days are over.
1) Clean the application area
Clean the part of your upper arm where you want to place the sensor. Use some regular soap to remove oil on your skin and dead skin. After you wash off the soap, let the part of your arm dry completely.
2) Find the right spot
Place the sensor on a squishy part of your upper arm. You should avoid muscle tissue. You can do a “touch test” before application. Feel different parts of your upper arm and choose a place which feels soft.
3) Make the move test
Place the sensor somewhere that doesn’t impair you when exercising or moving your arm. This way, you can avoid rubbing it off accidentally. You can do a couple of steps (with arm swings) or a typical exercise you do often (e.g.: push-ups, squats or a yoga pose) to see your range of motion and where a sensor could be placed without being in the way.
4) Choose the right side
Unless you sleep on your belly or back your probably have a preferred side you sleep on. We recommend placing the sensor on the arm you usually don’t sleep on. So if you usually sleep on the right side of your body, place the sensor on your left upper arm.
5) Double check the adhesive
After placing your sensor, ensure the edges of the sticker stick firmly to your skin. Just press them down all around the sensor or draw a couple of circles around the sensor with a small spoon.
6) A bit of patience
After applying the sensor, avoid doing sports, taking a shower or swimming for about 1-2 hours. This way, the adhesive can warm up a bit and sticks better to your skin. This makes the sensor also less likely to come off later.
7) Use additional protection
We would recommend placing a patch on your sensor for additional protection, especially if you move a lot and do sports regularly. If you don’t have a patch, you can also use a physio tape to protect the sensor.
Enjoy your exploration journey!
Related Posts:
