How to Apply Micropore Tape

PDF download Download Article
PDF download Download Article

Micropore tape is used for things like changing bandages and taping items to your skin. It's known for being very light and breathable and for staying in place while also being easy to remove. To put Micropore tape on your skin, it's important to start with clean, dry skin so the tape adheres well. All you'll need is a minute or two of time and you'll be all taped up!

Method 1
Method 1 of 2:

Application

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/c\/c0\/Apply-Micropore-Tape-Step-1.jpg\/v4-460px-Apply-Micropore-Tape-Step-1.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/c\/c0\/Apply-Micropore-Tape-Step-1.jpg\/aid11969769-v4-728px-Apply-Micropore-Tape-Step-1.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Clean the area where you’ll be applying the tape so that it sticks to your skin well. Use a mild soap to wash your skin and pat the area dry with a clean towel.
    • If you’re using the tape to hold a bandage in place, listen to your doctor’s instructions about cleaning the wound.
    • It’s important to wipe off any lotions or oils so that the adhesive will stick to your skin.
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/4\/48\/Apply-Micropore-Tape-Step-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Apply-Micropore-Tape-Step-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/4\/48\/Apply-Micropore-Tape-Step-2.jpg\/aid11969769-v4-728px-Apply-Micropore-Tape-Step-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    If you have a wound that has a dressing over it, apply the tape so that it extends beyond just the dressing and onto your skin. Cut and apply the tape so that there’s at least 0.5–1 in (1.3–2.5 cm) of taped edge on your skin.
    Advertisement
  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/0\/0d\/Apply-Micropore-Tape-Step-3.jpg\/v4-460px-Apply-Micropore-Tape-Step-3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/0\/0d\/Apply-Micropore-Tape-Step-3.jpg\/aid11969769-v4-728px-Apply-Micropore-Tape-Step-3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    It’s important to avoid pulling or stretching out the tape as you place it on your skin, otherwise it’ll cause tension. Press it down evenly starting at one end and working your way to the other end of the cut tape without tugging on it.
    • Pulling the tape wider as you apply it to your skin might cause the area to feel a little irritated or painful.
  4. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/b\/be\/Apply-Micropore-Tape-Step-4.jpg\/v4-460px-Apply-Micropore-Tape-Step-4.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/b\/be\/Apply-Micropore-Tape-Step-4.jpg\/aid11969769-v4-728px-Apply-Micropore-Tape-Step-4.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    If you just set the tape down on your skin without rubbing it in, the tape won’t adhere well to the different curves of the area on your body. Press the tape down firmly and gently rub it into your skin using circular motions so it sticks well. [1]
  5. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/e\/e5\/Apply-Micropore-Tape-Step-5.jpg\/v4-460px-Apply-Micropore-Tape-Step-5.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/e\/e5\/Apply-Micropore-Tape-Step-5.jpg\/aid11969769-v4-728px-Apply-Micropore-Tape-Step-5.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Putting a piece of tape around your arm, leg, or other body part too tightly can cause circulation problems. Instead of wrapping the tape in a full circle, keep it in sections for your own safety.
    • Even if you wrap the tape in a circle around your limb and it doesn’t feel tight, that area may swell and cut off your circulation.
  6. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/0\/01\/Apply-Micropore-Tape-Step-6.jpg\/v4-460px-Apply-Micropore-Tape-Step-6.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/0\/01\/Apply-Micropore-Tape-Step-6.jpg\/aid11969769-v4-728px-Apply-Micropore-Tape-Step-6.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    If the area of your body where you applied the tape is starting to swell from an injury or the tape being too tight, carefully remove the tape. Reapply it a bit looser so your circulation isn’t affected.
  7. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/d\/d5\/Apply-Micropore-Tape-Step-7.jpg\/v4-460px-Apply-Micropore-Tape-Step-7.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/d\/d5\/Apply-Micropore-Tape-Step-7.jpg\/aid11969769-v4-728px-Apply-Micropore-Tape-Step-7.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Depending on why you’re using the tape, you may need to leave it on for several weeks. For example, a surgeon may recommend keeping Micropore tape over your incision(s) for up to 6 weeks after an operation to promote faster healing and minimize scarring. [2] They will also give you advice about how often to remove and replace the tape (e.g., once a week until the wounds heal). [3]
    • Some healthcare professionals recommend removing Micropore tape before you shower or bathe, then replacing it again when you’re done. Ask your doctor if you can safely wash the taped area and if they recommend taking the tape off before you do so.
    8. Advertisement
Method 2
Method 2 of 2:

Removal

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/f\/f5\/Apply-Micropore-Tape-Step-8.jpg\/v4-460px-Apply-Micropore-Tape-Step-8.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/f\/f5\/Apply-Micropore-Tape-Step-8.jpg\/aid11969769-v4-728px-Apply-Micropore-Tape-Step-8.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Find an edge of the tape that’s easy to get under and pull this edge up slightly. Starting at an edge of the tape will give you more leverage and ensure it isn’t painful to take off.
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/c\/c6\/Apply-Micropore-Tape-Step-9.jpg\/v4-460px-Apply-Micropore-Tape-Step-9.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/c\/c6\/Apply-Micropore-Tape-Step-9.jpg\/aid11969769-v4-728px-Apply-Micropore-Tape-Step-9.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Taking the tape off in the same direction of your hair growth will help ensure it doesn’t pull or cause pain. Lift the tape slowly and carefully, starting at the edge and working your way to the other side.
    • Avoid ripping the tape off quickly so you don’t irritate your skin.
  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/1\/1a\/Apply-Micropore-Tape-Step-10-Version-3.jpg\/v4-460px-Apply-Micropore-Tape-Step-10-Version-3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/1\/1a\/Apply-Micropore-Tape-Step-10-Version-3.jpg\/aid11969769-v4-728px-Apply-Micropore-Tape-Step-10-Version-3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    If you lift the end of the tape that you’ve already removed high into the air as you pull, your skin will be tugged more heavily. Instead, keep the tape close to your skin as you pull it off and use your fingers to steady your skin if needed.
    • Pull the tape back over itself once each section is removed to help keep it close to your skin, but not touching anymore.
  4. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/f\/ff\/Apply-Micropore-Tape-Step-11.jpg\/v4-460px-Apply-Micropore-Tape-Step-11.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/f\/ff\/Apply-Micropore-Tape-Step-11.jpg\/aid11969769-v4-728px-Apply-Micropore-Tape-Step-11.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Micropore tape is known for being easy to remove, so this shouldn’t be a problem. If you are having trouble getting the tape off or it’s painful to remove, purchase an adhesive remover and dab this on to the area to help the tape come loose.
    • Sometimes applying a moisturizer can help loosen the tape too.
    5. Advertisement

Expert Q&A

Ask a Question
200 characters left
Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.
Submit
      Advertisement

      Tips

      • Once you've cut the tape, try not to touch the sticky side to make sure the adhesive works well.
        Thanks
      Submit a Tip
      All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published
      Submit
      Thanks for submitting a tip for review!
      Advertisement

      Warnings

      • Micropore tape isn't waterproof, so avoid showering, heavily exercising, or going underwater with it on.
        Thanks
      Advertisement

      You Might Also Like

      How to
      Get Rid of Fordyce Spots
      How to
      Heal Cartilage Piercing Bumps
      How to
      Treat an Infection in Your Belly Button
      How to Get Rid of a Nose Piercing Bump ASAP
      How to
      Get Rid of Farmer's Tan
      An Expert Guide to Dermarolling for Beginners
      How to
      Thicken Skin
      How to
      Not Get Tan
      How to Avoid Skin Darkening in the Sun
      What Do Clogged Pores Look Like? Identify and Unclog Them
      How to
      Tighten Loose Neck Skin
      How to
      Prepare Potassium Permanganate
      How to
      Heal over Exfoliated Skin
      How to
      Reduce Keratin in Skin
      Advertisement

      References

      1. ↑ https://www.infectioncontroltoday.com/view/make-correct-tape-application-sticking-point
      2. ↑ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4961501/
      3. ↑ https://www.nbt.nhs.uk/our-services/a-z-services/breast-reconstruction/surgical-scars-following-breast-reconstruction

      About This Article

      Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 27,950 times.

      Did this article help you?

      Advertisement