Microfoam Paper Tape

Microfoam Paper Tape Overview

Microfoam Paper Tape is a hypoallergenic adhesive that is used to treat wounds from accidents or medical procedures. It is best used in cases of sensitive or irritated skin. It can be directly applied to a wound or used to cover gauze, such as our most popular gauze pads, Curity Gauze Sponges.

What Materials Go Into Microfoam Paper Tape?

3M Microfoam Paper Tape has been developed for maximum comfort while providing strong adhesion. Microfoam does not contain elastic. Rather, its natural rubber latex-free design allows it to stretch in all directions, adjusting to movement or swelling without breaking the seal. The materials used in both the fabric and adhesive are hypoallergenic, minimizing skin irritation when in use.

Features and Benefits

• Hypoallergenic
• Latex-Free Natural Rubber
• Can Stretch in Every Direction, Conforming to Swelling and Stretching
• Strong Adhesion, While Also Being Gentle on Skin
• Water-Resistant
• Easily Accommodates Natural Skin Contours

Will Microfoam Work if I Need to Use Ointments or Liquids?

Microfoam is made water-resistant, but sometimes the effect of different treatment creams will affect the ability of microfoam to maintain a good seal. Some treatments will actually increase adhesion, but more common is that you will need to wait until the area dries and reapply the Microfoam. In these cases, it may also be necessary to apply new strips.

Is Using Microfoam Still a Good Idea If the Skin Is Irritated from Injury?

The short answer is it depends on your injury and natural skin sensitivity. Microfoam is one option and is typically good for sensitive skin. For greater adhesion with a lower risk of skin trauma, try Micropore Paper Tape. The PDF guides below contain information and chart comparisons of different 3M options, comparing them on adhesion, adhesion time duration, and how abrasive the different products are on the skin.

How to Apply Microfoam

For maximum adhesion, you want to make sure that the application area is properly cleaned and dried beforehand. Microfoam tape can be sterilized in single strips using ethylene oxide, or you could use other sanitizers like Sani-Hands Skin Wipes on the wounds themselves.

• 1. Make sure the area is clean and dry.
• 2. Use a microfoam strip with an inch of extra space from the edges of the wound.
• 3. Lay tape flat, do not stretch across the skin when applying.
• 4. Press down onto the tape once it covers the wound, so that it matches the contours of the skin

Video demonstrations included below, as well as PDF guides to proper tape use and more detailed application instructions.

Maintenence

While expiration dates are not legally required for surgical tapes, 3M's recommended shelf life for Microfoam is five years. Tape should be kept in a dry place, as exposure to moisture can affect adhesives over time.

Specifications

• Manufacturer: 3M
• Brand: 3M Microfoam
• Product Numbers: 1530S-1
• Material: Elastic Foam
• Type: Water-Resistant
• Dimensions: 1 Inch x 1-1/2 Yards
• Color: White
• Sterility: Non-Sterile
• Latex-Free Indicator: Not Made with Natural Rubber Latex
• Application: Medical Tape

Manuals and Documents

•    3M Adhesion Charts
•     Microfoam Tape and Patch Specifications
•     Microfoam Q&A
•     3M Medical Tape Instructions

Product Videos

3M Microfoam Tape Application (2:11 seconds)