Stuck on you Tips to help stop your sensor from sliding

Sensor sliding? Experts share their tips to keep your tech in place

Experiment with location

Finding a spot that lets you move freely – and isn’t in the way – is most important, says Dexcom user Christel Oerum, co-founder and head coach at Diabetes Strong. If your CGM sensor or insulin pump infusion set won’t stay put, try a spot where the skin is less oily and moves less. “The abdomen is usually associated with the most adhesion problems, followed by the arms, hips and thighs,” says insulin pump user and dietitian Gary Scheiner. He suggests trying the upper buttock, as it’s usually hugged by snug clothing that can help to keep the sensor in place.

Give it a wash

A clean, dry surface is important for achieving the best adhesion, says Scheiner. It further helps if the spot is hairless. “If you’re gorilla-hairy like me, shave the area first,” he suggests. Oerum also likes to prep the spot with an alcohol swab before she inserts the sensor.

Make it sticky

Applying extra adhesive to your skin before inserting the sensor or infusion set can help it stay put. Be sure to put the glue around the point of insertion, not on it, and let it dry first so the chemicals don’t interfere with your device, says Scheiner. Popular options? SkinPrep (available at pharmacies and Amazon) and Skin Tac (available on Amazon) wipes. Because the glue can be hard to remove – from the site and your hands – Oerum suggests using adhesiveremover wipes such as TacAway (available on Amazon).

Thorough prep will help you stick with it!