Updated: May 2026 · by Sonja Spörlein
Help, it's itching! Do you know that feeling? The adhesive from FreeStyle Libre, Dexcom, Medtronic Enlite/Guardian, Eversense or insulin pump catheters suddenly causes skin irritation or contact allergies. The skin itches and burns after a few days or is red after removing the glucose sensors and catheters. I am Sonja from Zuckerschmuck and was affected myself. In cooperation with other people with diabetes, we looked for solutions that helped us to use the great diabetes aids again without problems. Adhesive reactions around CGM sensors are documented in the professional literature [1,2], so you are not alone with the problem.
We are happy to pass on these tips and tricks and have therefore included the skin protection section in our product range.
🛡️ Skin protection wipes and spray as a transparent barrier
In short: Skin protection films form a transparent protective layer between the skin and the sensor/catheter adhesive.
Skin protection wipes (e.g. SKIN PREP, Skin Tac Adhesive Wipes, Sensi Care) or skin protection spray (e.g. SECURA, Sensi Care) as well as spray plasters (e.g. Hansaplast) are applied to the cleaned and disinfected skin. After approx. 20 seconds of drying time, a transparent protective film forms. Then you apply the glucose sensor or insulin pump catheter as usual and can cover it with decorative tapes if necessary. Many users report that this protective film reduces itching and redness.
🩹 Tape as an additional barrier between skin and sensor patch
In short: Some members of the community apply a tape with a small hole under the sensor to separate the sensor adhesive from the skin.
The following trick has worked well for some of our customers: A small hole is cut in the middle of a tape (overpatch without cutout) that has not yet been applied, where the sensor filament emerges. The tape is then attached to the adhesive surface of the sensor, serving as a barrier between the sensor patch adhesive and the skin. The sensor filament can be inserted into the skin through the hole. Subsequently, the sensor is applied to the disinfected skin as usual, and the sensor filament is inserted into the skin.
This is then covered with the usual Dexcom G6 Tape, Dexcom G7 Tape or FreeStyle Libre Tape for camouflage.
🧴 How do I gently remove adhesive residue?
In short: Special adhesive removers are gentler on the skin than dry rubbing.
When changing a catheter or CGM sensor, adhesive residue often remains on the skin. For some, baby oil or olive oil helps to gently remove the residue. Professional adhesive removers are even gentler.
- REMOVE adhesive remover wipe for gentle removal of plaster residue from catheters and glucose sensors
- Sensi Care plaster adhesive remover wipe as a wipe variant
- Sensi Care plaster adhesive remover spray as a spray variant
💊 What to do about slight skin redness?
In short: For slight redness, a zinc ointment can support skin regeneration according to the manufacturer's indications.
If, despite all precautions, slight skin irritations occur after a catheter or sensor change, a zinc ointment according to the manufacturer's instructions can help. Zinc ointment is an established wound healing preparation and is also used for minor skin irritations outside the diabetes context.
For longer-lasting or more severe skin reactions, we recommend consulting a diabetology or dermatology practice [3]. A contact allergy to a specific adhesive component (e.g. isobornyl acrylate in some CGM sensors) is possible and should be professionally clarified [2].
❓ Frequently asked questions about plaster allergy and skin protection
What can trigger a sudden plaster allergy?
Adhesives in CGM sensors and catheter patches contain various components. In recent years, isobornyl acrylate (IBOA) in particular has been identified as a possible allergen trigger in some CGM models [2]. In case of recurring skin reactions, a dermatological clarification with a patch test should be considered.
What is an underpatch?
An underpatch is a thin patch that is applied to the skin before inserting the sensor. The sensor is then inserted into the skin through the underpatch. This prevents the direct sensor adhesive from coming into contact with the skin, which helps with adhesive sensitivity. In the community, some use self-cut tapes (see tape trick above), while others use ready-made products with a pre-cut sensor opening.
Do skin protection films change sensor accuracy?
Skin protection films form a very thin protective layer after 20 seconds of drying time. Most users report unchanged sensor function. We recommend performing a comparative blood glucose measurement in the first few days after application to check sensor accuracy. In case of systematic deviation, consult your diabetology practice.
Do olive oil or baby oil help remove adhesive residue?
For many, olive oil or baby oil works well, especially in areas where the adhesive adheres only slightly. For stubborn residue or sensitive skin, professional adhesive removers are gentler because they require less rubbing.
What to do in case of an acute allergic reaction?
In case of acute skin reaction (severe burning, rapid spread of redness, blisters, hives), remove the sensor or catheter, carefully clean the affected skin area and seek medical attention as soon as possible. In case of shortness of breath or swelling in the face/neck, immediately call emergency services 112.
Which sensor models are considered more skin-friendly?
This varies greatly from person to person. Some users tolerate Dexcom better, others FreeStyle Libre, and still others Eversense. There is no general "best choice" because adhesive sensitivities are very personal. Talk to your diabetology practice about a possible sensor change if your current solution causes persistent problems.
📚 Sources and notes
- Heinemann L, Kamann S. Adhesives Used for Diabetes Medical Devices: A Neglected Risk With Serious Consequences? J Diabetes Sci Technol. 2016;10(6):1211–1215. Available at: pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27562857 [Accessed: 08.05.2026].
- Kamann S, Aerts O, Heinemann L. Further Evidence of Severe Allergic Contact Dermatitis from Isobornyl Acrylate while Using a Continuous Glucose Monitoring System. J Diabetes Sci Technol. 2018;12(3):630–633. Available at: pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29575930 [Accessed: 08.05.2026].
- Deutsche Diabetes Gesellschaft (DDG), Bundesärztekammer, AWMF. S3 Guideline Therapy of Type 1 Diabetes. AWMF Register No. 057-013. 2nd edition; 2023. Available at: awmf.org [Accessed: 08.05.2026].
Note: This article is an experience report from the diabetes community and does not replace medical or dermatological advice. In case of recurring skin reactions, suspected contact allergy or unusual symptoms, please consult your diabetology or dermatology practice. The products mentioned are skin protection and care aids, not medicines.
We hope our tips help you and that you have a carefree diabetes everyday life. If you have more tips and tricks that you would like to share with the community, please write to us at info@zuckerschmuck.com. We will share them on our Instagram and Facebook pages. Together we are strong 🌈
Your Sonja with the Zuckerschmuck team
