If you’ve got tattoos and wear a CGM patch, you might be wondering: does having one under your sensor or adhesive affect how well it sticks?
The short answer? It can, but not always. The way your patch performs over tattooed skin depends on a few things - from how healed your ink is, to the type of adhesive you’re using.
Let’s unpack what patch wearers with tattoos should know, and how to keep your CGM secure without risking irritation or damage to your body art.
Can you wear a CGM patch over a tattoo?
Yes - if the tattoo is fully healed. That usually means waiting at least 4 to 6 weeks after getting inked, depending on size, placement, and how well your skin is recovering.
A healed tattoo is just skin with pigment. But freshly tattooed skin is considered an open wound - and adhesives or sensor wear on fresh ink can lead to poor healing, colour distortion, or worse, infection.
Always check with your artist or doctor before placing a CGM or patch over a new tattoo.
Why adhesion might be different over tattoos
Here’s why CGM patches may behave differently over inked skin:
- Textured surface – Some tattoos create slightly raised or textured skin, especially with heavy linework or shading, which can interrupt flat contact.
- Skin oils – Tattooed areas can hold more oil or sweat due to higher nerve and gland density in certain zones like arms or backs.
- Residual healing – Even after a tattoo looks healed, your skin may still be more sensitive or reactive to adhesive.
These factors don’t always prevent adhesion, but they do mean you’ll want to take extra care with proper skin prep and patch choice.
Tattoo-safe tips for better patch hold
If your CGM site lands on a tattooed area, try these practical tricks to help your patch stay secure:
1. Prioritise proper skin prep
Tattooed or not, clean, dry skin makes a difference. Use fragrance-free soap and avoid lotion or oils. If needed, apply Type Strong skin adhesive wipes for better grip.
Also check out post-removal tips for skin care after CGM removal, especially if you’re reapplying over the same spot.
2. Use patches with strong, skin-friendly adhesive
Not all patches hold well on textured or oily areas. Look for options designed to last 10+ days with hypoallergenic material. Our Dexcom G7 patches, Omnipod patches, and patch bundle are popular choices that offer both comfort and durability.
Always patch test if you have sensitive skin.
3. Match the patch to the body part
If your tattooed area flexes often (like your bicep or ribs), opt for low-profile shapes or flexible adhesives that move with your skin. In high-friction spots, using tape layering can help reinforce your patch without adding bulk.
Will a CGM or patch damage my tattoo?
If the tattoo is fully healed and you remove your patch gently, there should be no damage. But if you’ve experienced CGM patch reactions, be cautious. Tattoos can hide early signs of irritation, like redness or rash, especially under darker ink or heavy shading.
If you do notice itching or sensitivity during wear, take a break and try different adhesives - hypoallergenic patches may help reduce flare-ups without compromising hold.
What other CGM users say
Many users in the Type 1 and CGM community wear sensors over tattoos with no issues. Others report occasional lifting or itching - usually resolved with better skin prep or trying new adhesives.
You may want to avoid testing new patches right before high-stakes events. Low-pressure times, like weekends or rest days, are ideal for trial runs.
And if you're managing an active lifestyle, consider carrying spare CGM patches so you're never caught off guard if one lifts mid-day.
People Also Asked
- Can I wear a sensor on a new tattoo? No. Always wait until the tattoo is fully healed - at least 4 to 6 weeks.
- Will the adhesive pull ink out of my tattoo? Not if the tattoo is healed. But repeated irritation or allergic reactions can affect the skin and ink over time.
- Is there a patch better for tattooed skin? Patches with strong but gentle adhesive tend to perform better on textured or oil-prone areas. Try adhesive wipes or Dexcom-compatible designs to improve hold and comfort.
The takeaway
You can wear a CGM patch over tattooed skin - safely and effectively - if the tattoo is fully healed and your patch is prepped to hold.
With the right prep, smart product choices, and a bit of trial and error, there’s no need to compromise between your ink and your CGM routine.
Explore device-specific patches or our patch bundle to find styles that work best for your skin.