Dear Past Me, Starting Your First Sensor…
You’re nervous — I remember. The Freestyle Libre sensor you’re holding feels like a big leap. You’ve Googled everything: how to wear it, what if it falls off, will it hurt?
Let me say this first: you’re doing the right thing.
This sensor is going to change your life in ways you didn’t expect.
But it’s not going to be perfect. There will be moments when the adhesive gives out early, or your clothes catch the edge, or you wonder, “Was I supposed to cover this thing?”
So, I wrote this for you — from the future — to help you skip the frustration I had to learn the hard way.
5 Things I Wish I Knew Before Wearing My First Freestyle Libre Sensor
1. Yes, You Should Cover It with a Patch
The sensor sticks on its own, but it probably won’t always last the full 14 days — especially in summer, after a workout, or after a shower.
Real talk: My first sensor got knocked off on day 5 from just bumping it on a doorway.
Solution: Use a patch made specifically for the Freestyle Libre.
These ones are pre-cut for Libre 2 and 3 and designed to hold through sweat, movement, and daily life.
2. Sweat and Water Are Not Your Friends
Swimming? Hot yoga? Even long walks in the summer? All of these can loosen the sensor’s edges. It won’t fall off immediately — but it will slowly lift.
What to do:
- Apply your sensor on clean, dry skin
- Let the adhesive settle for at least 1 hour before activity
- Use a water-resistant patch to help secure it
3. Don’t Rush the Application
I know — you’re excited (or anxious) to get it over with. But if you apply the sensor on lotion, sunscreen, or damp skin, it will come loose early.
Slow down. Clean the area. Let it dry.
Even just 60 seconds of skin prep will give your sensor a much better chance at lasting 14 days.
4. You’ll Touch It Constantly (Try Not To)
You’ll forget it’s there — until you catch it while getting dressed, drying off with a towel, or adjusting your backpack strap.
Tip: The more protected it is, the more likely it survives those accidental bumps. A soft, flexible adhesive patch not only reinforces the hold — it also cushions those small tugs.
5. You’ll Want Backups Sooner Than You Think
You’ll start off with one patch. Then you’ll need another. Then you’ll wish you had ordered a bundle.
Trust me — save yourself the stress.
Better move: Get the 20-pack bundle now. Keep them in your gym bag, bathroom, or suitcase. Future you will thank you.
Final Word to First-Time Libre Users
Your first sensor isn’t just about blood sugar — it’s about freedom. About knowing what’s happening in your body without the finger pricks. About walking into your day with more confidence.
So be kind to yourself. Be patient. And give your sensor the protection it needs to do its job.
You’ve got this. And Type Strong’s Freestyle Libre patches are here to back you up every step of the way.