Skip to main navigation
Skip to main content
Skip to footer
For
Medicare
For
Providers
For
Brokers
For
Employers
Español
For Individuals & Families:
For Individuals & Families
Medical
Dental
Other Supplemental
Explore coverage through work
How to Buy Health Insurance
Types of Dental Insurance
Open Enrollment vs. Special Enrollment
See all topics
Shop for Medicare plans
Member Guide
Find a Doctor
Log in to myCigna
Home
Knowledge Center
Wellness Library
Skin Adhesives (Liquid Stitches)
Skin Adhesives (Liquid Stitches)
Topic Overview
Skin adhesives are clear gels that may be used to hold the edges of a small cut together. Your doctor may apply a skin adhesive instead of stitching your cut. A liquid will be applied to your skin and allowed to dry. As it dries, it creates a film that will hold together the edges of your cut.
If a skin adhesive is used, be sure to follow your doctor's instructions on how to care for your cut. In general, to care for your cut:
- Leave the skin adhesive on your skin until it falls off—usually 5 to 10 days after it was applied.
- Do not scratch or pick at the adhesive. This may cause the adhesive to fall off too soon.
- Follow your doctor's instruction on keeping the wound and skin adhesive dry. You can shower with a skin adhesive in place. Be sure to gently dry the area after you shower. Avoid soaking your wound in water, such as tub bathing, washing dishes, or swimming.
- If your doctor has applied a bandage over the wound, keep it clean and dry. Follow your doctor's instruction on changing the bandage.
- Do not put ointments, including antibiotic ointment, over the adhesive. This can cause the adhesive to soften or come off too soon.
- Watch for signs of infection. If signs of an infection develop, call your doctor.
Current as of: March 9, 2022
Author:
Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:William H. Blahd Jr. MD, FACEP - Emergency Medicine & Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine & Kathleen Romito MD - Family Medicine & H. Michael O'Connor MD - Emergency Medicine & Martin J. Gabica MD - Family Medicine
This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.
To learn more about Healthwise, visit Healthwise.org.
© 1995-2022 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.
Related Links
Puncture Wounds
Cuts
Animal and Human Bites
Cuts: When Stitches Are Needed
<cipublic-spinner variant="large"><span>Loading…</span></cipublic-spinner>