How to Stop a Smoking Patch Rash
Nicotine patches are useful devices to assist in quitting smoking. They work by supplying a slow, steady stream of nicotine to the blood throughout the day. You gradually move on to smaller sizes of patches with less nicotine. With this process, your body craves nicotine less and less until you finally have no cravings at all. While this is an effective method for quitting smoking, you must take the proper precautions to prevent negative side effects. One of the most common side effects people notice is skin rashes from the patch.
Instructions
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Switch to a different brand of patches. Different brands use different adhesives for the patches, which is the main cause of skin irritation.
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Take the patch off before you go to bed if you use a 24-hour patch. It will be beneficial to use a 16-hour patch if you opt not to wear one at night. The less time the patch is on your skin, the less likely you are to get a rash.
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Put the patch on a different area of the body every morning. Wait at least three days before putting a patch in the same spot. Patches work best on a dry, hairless area.
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Apply a hydrocortisone cream to the skin after removing the patch. This will help heal a rash as well as preventing future rashes.
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Tips & Warnings
Read the directions for the patches to find out suitable areas of the body to put the patches on. Some brands can only be put on the torso while others can be put on arms and legs. Consult a doctor if rashes last for more than a week.
