The wearable adhesives market is being propelled by healthcare advancements and increasing demand for personalized care options. Wearable adhesives are used to attach medical devices to the body for continuous and long-term durations. While the skin-interfacing adhesive is only a small component of a wearable device, its ability to properly adhere to the skin is a key factor for an effectively functioning device. The selection and development of this adhesive is challenging and needs careful consideration due to the complex and varying nature of human skin and the characteristics of the specific wearable device, such as its size, weight, flexibility, and application purpose.
The requirements for an adhesive are stringent; it must be capable of adhering well to dry, perspiring, or sensitive human skin and remain securely affixed even during showering and physical activity, yet be removable without leaving residue on the skin surface and without causing skin damage. In addition, the adhesive should not irritate the skin.