Dexcom G7 · FreeStyle Libre 2 & 3
CGM Sensor Falling Off? Adhesion Best Practices
Quick Answer
Most early sensor loss comes from skin oils, moisture, or friction. Clean and fully dry the site, avoid lotions, choose a spot away from waistbands and seatbelts, and press the adhesive firmly for several seconds after applying.
Before you apply
- Wash the site with soap and water, then wipe with the alcohol swab and let it dry completely. Applying on damp skin is the most common cause of lifting.
- Skip lotions, sunscreen, and oils on the site that day.
- Trim (do not shave right before) hair at the site so the adhesive touches skin.
- Use only the body locations approved in your device’s user guide — the back of the upper arm for Libre, and the back of the upper arm (or upper buttocks for ages 2–6) for Dexcom G7.
While applying
- Pick a spot without scars, tattoos, or irritation, and rotate sites with each new sensor.
- After applying, press around the adhesive edge with your finger for 10–15 seconds to warm and seal it.
- Try to wait a few hours before swimming, heavy sweating, or a hot shower.
Keeping it on
- Watch for snag points: doorframes, backpack straps, tight sleeves, and seatbelts.
- Pat — don’t rub — the area dry after showers and workouts.
- An overpatch can help if edges keep lifting. We don’t ship overpatches or skin-prep wipes automatically, but you can ask us to add them to your order.
- If you notice redness, itching, or a rash under the adhesive, remove the sensor and talk with your prescriber before applying another one in the same area.
When to call us
- A sensor fell off before the end of its wear period — report it to the manufacturer for a possible replacement (see the replacement article).
- You lose sensors repeatedly and may need a different adhesive approach or supply.
General guidance only, not medical advice. Always follow your device’s user guide and your prescriber’s instructions. For urgent symptoms of low or high blood sugar or trouble breathing, call 911.