What is the treatment for skin irritation and raw skin caused by a reaction to surgical tape after recent surgery?

From the FDA Drug Label

Directions for itching of skin irritation, inflammation, and rashes: adults and children 2 years of age and older: apply to affected area not more than 3 to 4 times daily Uses temporarily relieves itching associated with minor skin irritations, inflammation, and rashes due to: eczema psoriasis poison ivy, oak, sumac insect bites detergents jewelry cosmetics soaps seborrheic dermatitis

For skin irritation and raw skin caused by a reaction to surgical tape after recent surgery, the treatment is to apply Hydrocortisone (TOP) to the affected area not more than 3 to 4 times daily for adults and children 2 years of age and older.

• Key considerations:
  • Clean the affected area with mild soap and warm water and rinse thoroughly before applying.
  • Gently dry by patting or blotting with toilet tissue or a soft cloth before applying.
  • For children under 2 years of age or under 12 years of age, ask a doctor for advice. 1 1

From the Research

To treat skin irritation and raw skin caused by a reaction to surgical tape, gently cleanse the area with mild soap and lukewarm water, then apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly or a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer, and consider using a low-potency hydrocortisone cream for inflammation and itching. When managing skin reactions to surgical tape, it's essential to prioritize gentle care to avoid further irritation. The goal is to reduce inflammation, prevent infection, and support the skin's natural healing process.

Key Steps in Management:

• Gently cleanse the affected area with mild soap and lukewarm water, then pat dry.
• Apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly (Vaseline) or a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer like Aquaphor or CeraVe to create a protective barrier.
• For inflammation and itching, consider using a low-potency over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream (0.5-1%) up to twice daily for 3-5 days, as suggested by general dermatological principles 2.
• Keep the area uncovered if possible to allow healing. If you need to cover the wound, use non-adhesive dressings like Telfa pads secured with paper tape or a wrap bandage instead of adhesive tape.
• Cool compresses can provide additional relief for 10-15 minutes several times daily.

Preventing Future Reactions:

It's crucial to inform healthcare providers about your tape sensitivity so they can use hypoallergenic options or alternative wound closure methods in future procedures. The use of unsterile microporous tape on surgical wounds has been questioned due to the risk of contamination, as highlighted in a 2021 study 3, emphasizing the need for sterile or hypoallergenic materials when possible.

Monitoring for Infection:

If symptoms worsen, show signs of infection (increased redness, warmth, swelling, pus, or fever), or don't improve within a few days, seek medical attention. The risk of infection from contaminated tape is a concern, as discussed in recent literature 4, making vigilant monitoring and proper wound care essential.