Updated: May 2026 · by Sonja Spörlein
🩹 At a glance: TapeGuard for Dexcom G6
In short: A flexible application aid that enables you to apply cover tapes even at difficult insertion sites without help from someone else.
- Material: flexible plastic that can be worn directly on the skin
- Sensor compatibility: Dexcom G6 sensor
- Contents: 1 TapeGuard + 5 decorative tapes in concealing beige
- Application: Place TapeGuard around the sensor and cover it with the tape, or stick the tape to the frame first and put both over the sensor together
- Suitable for: adults and kids, many body areas such as the abdomen, arm, or leg, including hard-to-reach areas
- Care: single-use tape application; the TapeGuard frame remains on the sensor until the sensor is changed (Dexcom G6: up to 10 days [2]), after which you can reuse it
For sensitive skin or known adhesive reactions, we recommend testing a tape beforehand on a small area of skin [1].
❤️ My favorite insertion site: the side of the back
Dear Dexcom G6 friends,
I'm Sonja from Zuckerschmuck and a passionate Dexcom G6 user; you can read more in my Dexcom G6 experience report. My favorite spot is the side of the back, or the lower back. I don't feel the sensor at all there, and it leaves the skin and the space on my abdomen free for my insulin pump catheters. However, Dexcom has not officially approved this site; more about this below in the frequently asked questions.
The sensor can be inserted here yourself without much difficulty. The problem until now was applying the cover tapes: I always needed help from someone else. Our tape application aid TapeGuard has solved this problem.
🎯 How TapeGuard works in three steps
In short: TapeGuard around the sensor, tape over it, and you're done.
- Place the small flexible "frame" of the TapeGuard precisely around your sensor.
- Stick the cover tape over it.
- Press the adhesive surface onto your skin, and you're done.
The other way around works too: You stick the tape onto the frame first and place the taped TapeGuard over your sensor.
The TapeGuard is flexible and comfortable to wear. It fits many body sites and body sizes, including kids.
📦 Contents and material
The TapeGuard overlay aids are made of flexible plastic that can be worn directly on the skin. They come as a set with five decorative tapes in concealing beige.
The tapes can be reordered in a value pack or individually in skin tones or colorful designs.
🎨 Combine TapeGuard with tapes and stickers
In short: TapeGuard plus overlay tape plus transmitter stickers give you the complete style set for your Dexcom G6.
You can combine TapeGuard and overlay tapes with our transmitter stickers. The transmitter stickers stay on for the entire three-month transmitter lifespan [2].
🎬 TapeGuard application video
Our short application video shows what applying TapeGuard looks like:
Watch the TapeGuard application video on YouTube
❓ Frequently asked questions about TapeGuard and insertion sites
How does the TapeGuard adhesive aid work?
You place the flexible frame of the TapeGuard around your sensor and stick the overlay tape over it, or you stick the tape onto the frame first and place both over the sensor together. The frame helps you apply the tape precisely, even without assistance in difficult-to-reach areas.
Where on my body can I place the Dexcom G6?
According to Dexcom, the G6 sensor can be inserted on the abdomen and the back of the upper arm (from 2 years of age), and for kids and adolescents aged 2 to 17, additionally on the upper buttocks [2]. These insertion sites are often also called wear sites. Dexcom recommends keeping at least 8 cm of distance from the infusion set of the insulin pump or the injection site and changing the insertion site with every sensor [2]. Some users also place the sensor at alternative sites such as the side of the waist or lower back (Sonja's favorite site; she has lived with diabetes for over 30 years). Important: alternative insertion sites are not officially recommended by the manufacturer. Please talk to your diabetes team before trying them.
Is TapeGuard also available for FreeStyle Libre and other sensors?
Yes. TapeGuard is currently available for these sensors: FreeStyle Libre 1 and 2, FreeStyle Libre 3, Dexcom G6, Dexcom G7 and Medtronic Guardian/Enlite. Overview: TapeGuard application aid.
What application sites are available for the FreeStyle Libre?
For the FreeStyle Libre 3, Abbott lists the back of the upper arm as the application site [3]; the manufacturer’s website does not list alternative sites. If you are considering another site, talk to your diabetes team. The article sensor holder for FreeStyle Libre explains how to decorate or cover the sensor on your upper arm.
How long will the Dexcom G6 be available?
In Germany, the manufacturer is expected to discontinue the Dexcom G6 at the end of 2026; after that, availability and stock can no longer be guaranteed [2]. TapeGuard is also available for the Dexcom G7.
What is the difference between TapeGuard and an underpatch?
An underpatch is a thin tape that you stick to your skin before inserting the sensor. The sensor is then inserted through the underpatch, so the direct sensor adhesive no longer contacts the skin (useful if you are sensitive to adhesives). TapeGuard, on the other hand, is an application aid for the overlay tape after inserting the sensor. Both solutions can be combined.
Can I combine TapeGuard with Stickers?
Yes. The transmitter sticker adheres directly to the transmitter, while the overlay tape goes around it on the skin. TapeGuard helps with applying the tape, and the Sticker remains unaffected. This lets you combine coverage with a personal look.
Is TapeGuard also suitable for kids?
Yes. The flexible frame adapts to smaller body areas, and application is also uncomplicated for kids. For very young children, we recommend first practicing application with an accompanying adult.
Related to this topic
- Sensor holders for FreeStyle Libre: Which holder fits which sensor.
- Sensor holders for Freestyle Libre and Dexcom G6: Holder options also for the Dexcom G6.
- Decorating your reader made easy: From standard device to favorite accessory in just a few steps.
- How to properly store and cool insulin: Cooler, pen case, and what matters when traveling.
📚 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/27566734 [Accessed: 14.09.2026].
- Dexcom Deutschland. Frequently asked questions: Where can I insert my G6 sensor?, How long can I wear the sensor?, How long can the Dexcom G6 transmitter be used?, When will Dexcom G6 be discontinued in Germany? [Accessed: 14.09.2026].
- Abbott Diabetes Care. FreeStyle Libre 3 Sensor, product information. Available at: freestylelibre.de [Zugriff: 14.09.2026].
Note: This item is product information about lifestyle accessories for CGM sensors and does not replace medical or diabetology advice. Alternative application sites are not officially recommended by manufacturers; if skin reactions or sensor detachment recur, please speak with your diabetology practice.
Wishing you lots of joy with our jewelry tape application aid
Sonja from Zuckerschmuck
