Nicotine patches should be applied to a clean, dry, hairless area of the skin to ensure effective absorption of nicotine. Here are some recommended locations and precautions:
Recommended locations
1. Inner arm
2. Inner thigh
3. Upper abdomen (not near the heart)
Specific steps
1. Choose a location: Choose a suitable location and avoid areas with hair, wounds, redness, swelling, or inflammation. Choose a different location each time you change, and avoid reusing the same area to prevent skin irritation.
2. Clean skin: Use warm water and soap to clean your skin, making sure it is dry and grease-free. This helps the patch adhere better to the skin.
3. Open the package: Carefully remove the patch from the package, avoiding touching the sticky part with your fingers.
4. Apply the patch: Apply the sticky part of the patch to the selected skin area, press gently and hold for a few seconds to ensure that the patch fits tightly.
5. Daily change: Change the patch once a day at the same time, and make sure to use a different area each time you change.
Precautions
1. Avoid reusing the same area: Use at least 3 days a week before using the same area to prevent skin irritation and sensitivity.
2. Avoid exposure to water: Try to avoid prolonged immersion in water, such as when bathing or swimming. You can choose to apply a new patch after these activities.Or use waterproof tools to protect the patch before exposure to water.
3. If the patch falls off: If the patch falls off accidentally, you can replace it with a new one. Try to avoid frequent replacement.
Skin reactions
Some people may have a mild skin reaction to the sticky material of the nicotine patch, such as redness or itching. If the reaction is severe or lasts for a long time, you should stop using it and consult a doctor.
Through the correct location selection and patch application method, the nicotine patch can effectively help smokers quit smoking and relieve withdrawal symptoms.
