Skin Adhesive Strips
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 4, 2025.
What are skin adhesive strips?
Skin adhesive strips are thin, sterile pieces of medical tape used to close wounds. These strips pull the edges of the skin together and help keep your wound clean and protected. Skin adhesive strips will fall off on their own in about 7 to 10 days.
How do I use skin adhesive strips?
Skin adhesive strips are used to close small wounds or cuts that do not bleed a lot. The strips may also be used after minor surgery or procedures such as a biopsy.
- Always wash your hands before you care for your wound. This will help prevent an infection.
- Clean your wound as directed. Keep your wound dry for 24 hours. After 24 hours, gently wash around your wound with soap and water. Pat your wound dry with a clean towel, or let it air dry.
- Apply new skin adhesive strips as directed. Gently bring the edges of the wound together and place the middle of the skin adhesive strip on the wound. Do not stretch the skin adhesive strips. Smooth the ends of the skin adhesive strip down onto your skin. Add more skin adhesive strips as needed for the rest of the wound. Leave small gaps between strips so you do not completely cover the wound. Fluid from your wound may build up under the strips if you completely cover it. The fluid may make the strips peel. Your healthcare provider may recommend that you add skin adhesive strips along the ends of the pieces you placed across the wound. This will help keep the skin adhesive strips in place as you move.
- Remove skin adhesive strips only if directed. Your provider may want you to remove your skin adhesive strips after a certain number of days. Do not remove them early, even if they are causing itching or discomfort. If you are directed to remove your skin adhesive strips, pull them gently. You may cause the wound to open if you pull hard. Hold the skin down as you remove the strips.
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How do I care for the skin adhesive strips?
- Check your wound every day for signs of infection. Signs include swelling, warmth, redness, or pus.
- Do not soak your skin adhesive strips in water. Examples include a bath or hot tub.
- Do not scrub or pick at your skin adhesive strips. This will help your wound stay closed. Trim the edges of the strips if they start to curl. Press the ends firmly onto your skin.
- Do not apply ointments, powders, or lotions over your wound. These products will remove skin adhesive strips and your wound may reopen.
When should I seek immediate care?
- You see red streaks on your skin starting at the wound.
- Your wound has a foul smell or is draining fluid or pus.
- Your wound is red, swollen, and warm to the touch.
- Your wound reopens.
When should I call my doctor?
- You have a fever or chills.
- The skin under and around your skin adhesive strips itches or is not comfortable.
- You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.
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Further information
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