Ever noticed your CGM patch starting to peel and thought, “Maybe I’ll just stick another one on top”?
You're definitely not the first. A quick scroll through diabetes forums or support groups will turn up plenty of chat about layering patches – one over the other to keep things stuck down a bit longer.
But here’s the thing: while it might work for the day, it’s not always the best idea long-term. In fact, we don’t recommend it. And we’ll tell you why.
Why Do People Try Layering in the First Place?
Usually, it’s a fix-in-the-moment thing. You’re out and about, your patch is peeling, and you don’t have a spare. So, you do what you can – add a second one and hope for the best.
Other reasons?
- Extra backup for gym days or swimming
- Trying to stretch a sensor a bit longer
- Skin irritation – hoping to cover itchy edges
- Matching outfits (yes, it’s a thing)
We get it. Sometimes it feels like the easy fix. But there’s a better way.
Here’s Why We Don’t Recommend It
At Type Strong, our patches are designed to remove cleanly without disturbing your sensor. So when one starts to peel or feel uncomfortable, you can just take it off and put on a fresh one. No layering needed.
Why is that better? Let’s take a look.
- Your Skin Needs to Breathe - Layering patches traps sweat, heat, and dirt. You might end up with redness or irritation that wasn’t there before – especially in summer or under clothing.
- More Adhesive, More Reactions - Doubling up means double the adhesive. For people with sensitive skin, that can lead to rashes or itching that lasts for days.
- It Doesn’t Always Work - If your first patch is already peeling, adding a second over the top usually won’t fix the root issue. It might shift, curl, or lift even faster.
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Removal Gets Messy - Peeling off layered adhesives can stretch the skin, leave residue, or worse – nudge your CGM in the process.
So What Should You Do Instead?
Here’s the better approach: take it off, clean the skin, and start fresh.
It’s exactly why our patches have a non-stick centre. That non-stick centre means you can remove the patch while leaving your sensor completely untouched.
Quick How-To:
- Gently peel away the patch, starting at the edges
- Wipe around the sensor with a damp cloth or alcohol wipe
- Dry the area completely
- Apply a fresh patch – snug, secure, and comfortable
That’s it. Takes less than a minute, and you’ve avoided skin issues and a sensor scare.
A Few Tips to Make Your Patch Last
No layering needed – just start with a solid patch and good prep:
- Apply to clean, dry skin (skip the moisturiser)
- Press the patch down and gently rub for 30 seconds to activate the adhesive
- Keep an extra patch in your bag or kit – just in case
- Choose the right shape for your device (Libre, Dexcom G7, Omnipod – we’ve got you)
If you want something super flexible, grab our Build Your Own Bundle – pick your patch style, shape, and colour to suit your week.
So, Can You Layer? Technically Yes. But Should You?
Honestly? You’re better off not.
It might be tempting in a pinch, but layering CGM patches often creates more problems than it solves. Extra heat, more adhesive, a higher chance of skin irritation – and it's just not that reliable.
We made our patches with that in mind. They’re built to be removed and replaced without tugging your sensor. It’s quicker. It’s cleaner. And it works.