Waterproof Medical Tape

Before we jump to waterproof medical tape, we need to have a little knowledge of what is a tape. Tapes are an easily understandable topic. Medical professionals use medical tapes in various places of emergency and caregiving. Medical tapes are mainly used to secure wounds, bandages, and dressing. At hospitals, the tape is also used to fix medical appliances wherever needed.

Are all tapes waterproof?

No, the ones that claim to be waterproof are waterproof. There are a lot of varieties in tapes and not all are resistant to water.

There is a vast range of medical tapes used for a variety of reasons.

Different types of medical tapes

• Transpore tape– these are specifically designed for medical purposes. They have grid-like pores on them, thus giving them the name. These pores allow the passage of sweat and body fluids without coming off. They have the strongest adhesive quality.
• Waterproof tape– initially, the waterproof tape needs to be applied to a dry area, because they don’t stick to wet skin. They are very flexible and can be applied to any uneven corner of the skin.
• Paper tape– these are specifically designed for short-term usage and can be replaced daily without any skin irritation. They are highly affordable compared to the other types. They stick quite well to the skin and are made of breathable material allowing the skin some air.
• Cloth tape– these are not waterproof tape and not highly adhesive. They are good for daily use.

The most easily available are the waterproof and the cloth ones. The cloth tapes are less preferred because they come off in the water. Most people prefer waterproof tape because they have the right amount of adhesiveness and easily comes off without hurting the area. Since water is a carrier of germs and bacteria in most cases, waterproof tapes are ideal to protect the wound from infection.

Waterproof tapes can be used in various ways:

- Gauges and dressings can be secured in place with a tape

- Protecting cuts and abrasions.

• Prevents blisters on sensitive skin.

Waterproof Medical Tape for swimming

Can waterproof medical tapes be used by swimmers?

Yes, they are water-resistant. Unlike transpose tape, the waterproof tape is not permeable. It prevents water to seep through the wound. It also does not allow any fluid from the wound to come out to the outer area. These tapes are especially useful for swimmers.

How to remove waterproof tape?

Generally, if you use the correct technique for removing the tape, it does not hurt the skin nor pull the hair, however, it might be painful depending on the angle and the force exerted on it. It is recommended to use a small amount of moisturizer or baby oil on the open tip of the tape and on the skin while slowly peeling off the tape instead of pulling it hard as it may hurt the wound. Warm water, baby oil, petroleum jelly, rubbing alcohol these can dissolve the adhesive of the tape. Quality waterproof tapes also use good quality adhesive for easy removal.

Can tapes cause allergy?

Tapes are made of hypoallergenic material and there is no fear of allergies when using them, however, waterproof tapes for sensitive skin are available in the market for people suffering from skin issues.

To conclude, a wound at its initial stage is vulnerable. It can get infected even with tap water, chlorinated water or salt-treated water. The healing process slows down as the micro-organisms intrude on the wound. Waterproofing the wound is not a time-consuming or expensive procedure. It proves beneficial when we protect the wound with waterproof medical tape.