How to Properly Apply and Remove 3M Micropore Surgical Tape for Maximum Comfort

By ADW|2024-03-01T10:48:15-05:00Updated: March 1st, 2024|Diabetes Management, Health & Wellness, Skin Care|0 Comments
  • A pregnant woman with an IV secured by medical tape

If you don’t know how to use your medical tape properly, you could end up in a sticky situation! We’re here to tell you all about Micropore tape uses, as well as how to apply and remove it in a way that maximizes your comfort. If you have any questions, our friendly in-house experts are happy to help!

What Is Micropore Tape?

3M is a trusted brand that makes a wide range of high-quality wound care supplies, including many different types of medical wound care tapes. Each line of tapes has its own unique purpose.

3M Micropore surgical tape is a multi-purpose paper tape that’s hypoallergenic, latex-free, breathable, and able to adhere to damp skin. Although it’s made to be gentle, applying and removing it properly is the key to successful results and a comfortable overall experience.

Other types of 3M tape include non-adhesive, flexible, and high-strength. It’s important that you choose the right type of medical tape for each application, so check our guide below, and talk to your health care professional if you’re not sure which one is right for your needs.

What Is Micropore Tape Used For?

A woman lying in a hospital bed with an IV in her hand3M Micropore surgical tape is commonly used for light dressings, blood draws, secondary securement of IV lines and tubing, and securement of non-critical tubing.

Because it’s a multi-purpose product, you may be able to find other Micropore tape uses, but check with a health care professional before using it as part of your health management plan. Depending on your needs, other solutions such as wound care bandages, dressings, or wound care wraps may be a better fit.

How Do I Apply Micropore Tape to Skin?

Start with a clean, unused roll of medical tape. If the tape has previously been applied to other surfaces, or if it has been used in high-risk areas, it could be contaminated.

Before applying 3M Micropore surgical tape to your skin, the area should be clean. This may simply require that you wash with water and mild soap, but if you’re dressing a wound, follow the cleaning instructions provided by a health care professional. Make sure the area is dry before applying the tape.

Follow these instructions to apply Micropore tape:

  • Cut or tear the tape to the required size.
  • Without pulling or stretching the tape, carefully press it evenly to the skin. Pulling or stretching the tape may cause it to rebound to its original size, causing discomfort.
  • To activate the adhesive and ensure that it makes contact with all areas, apply enough pressure to press the 3M Micropore surgical tape firmly into the skin.

How Do I Remove Micropore Tape From Skin?

Wound care is one of the most common Micropore tape uses, so removing it carefully is the number one priority to prevent complications and discomfort.

Follow these instructions to remove Micropore tape:

  • Start by loosening the tape’s leading edge.
  • If the tape seems difficult to peel, you may wish to apply hand sanitizer, medical-grade adhesive remover, or other gels and liquids recommended by a health care professional.
  • Never pull the tape perpendicular to the skin. Instead, use one finger from your non-dominant hand to secure the nearby skin in place while using the other hand to gently peel the 3M Micropore surgical tape back over itself, following the direction of hair growth.
  • Remember: Peel low and slow!

Use The Right 3M Securement Solution

A person's upper arm dressed with medical tapeWhat is Micropore tape used for, and is there a better option? Many of our customers reach out to us with these questions when they’re not sure which type of 3M tape is appropriate for their needs.

Micropore tape is very versatile, but there are some applications that are better suited for a specialized tape. Speaking to a health care professional is the best way to guarantee optimal results. Here are some fast facts to help you select the right 3M securement solution.

Multi-Purpose: 3M Micropore Surgical Tape

  • Gentle adhesive solution that can be used by the vast majority of people, including pediatric and elderly.
  • Dependable adhesion for up to 48 hours (duration may vary depending on Micropore tape uses).
  • Easy to tear.
  • Removes clean.

Non-Adhesive: 3M Coban Self-Adherent Wrap

  • Suitable for all people, including those with at-risk or fragile skin.
  • Adheres to itself—no adhesive. Doesn’t require clips or pins.
  • Easy to tear.
  • Latex and non-latex options available.

Flexible: 3M Medipore Surgical Tape

  • Made from a soft cloth material.
  • Stretches in multiple directions.
  • Breathable.
  • Easy to tear (perforated).

High Strength: 3M Durapore Surgical Tape

  • Powerful tape with extremely secure hold. May be used for immobilization
  • Silk-like texture.
  • Easy to tear.

Contact Us For Personalized Guidance

We hope this guide to Micropore surgical tape is helpful. Please don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any questions about any of our products. We’re known for providing outstanding, person-to-person customer support, and our experts are available to recommend products that fit your unique needs.

Save On Wound Care Essentials

A health care professional applying a pad to a person's kneeADW Diabetes is your one-stop shop for wound care supplies. Our extensive inventory includes high-quality products from all of the most trusted brands, and we keep our prices affordable so everyone can have access to the discount diabetes supplies and health and wellness supplies they need to maintain a high quality of life.

To have your Micropore surgical tape and other go-to products shipped on a set schedule, join our Diabetic Coverage® Auto-Ship Program. For an easy and secure shopping experience on your mobile device, download the ADW Diabetes App!

Now that you’re familiar with Micropore tape uses and the application and removal processes, purchase your medical tapes for less at ADW Diabetes! Even if you don’t need medical tape now, it’s comforting to know you have it on hand should the need arise. Place your order today!

About the Author: ADW

ADW Diabetes is a diabetic supply mail order company that is dedicated to keeping diabetes management affordable. ADW takes a leading role in offering free diabetic education through Destination Diabetes, an informational component of the ADW website featuring tips and advice from diabetes and nutrition experts, diabetic recipes and more.

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