Dermatologist explains causes and prevention of tape burns

Dermatologist Masashi Akiyama of Shin-Yurigaoka General Hospital explains the causes and prevention of 'tape burns,' medically known as contact dermatitis. This skin irritation often occurs when using medical tapes, bandages, or compresses, particularly in athletic settings where sweat and moisture can exacerbate the issue.

According to Dr. Akiyama, the four primary causes of irritation are: stimulation from adhesives or materials, allergic reactions to specific components, physical damage to the skin barrier during removal, and irritation caused by sweat and moisture buildup. To prevent these issues, it is recommended to ensure the skin is clean and dry before application, avoid applying tape to already inflamed or wounded areas, and use moisturizing creams on dry skin before taping.

For proper application and removal, Dr. Akiyama advises applying tape gently without excessive tension and removing it slowly while pressing down on the skin to minimize damage to the stratum corneum. When selecting tape, users should prioritize products that are low-irritation and breathable to reduce moisture buildup.