FreeStyle Libre basics

Living with diabetes on your terms is about to begin. Here, you’ll discover just how easy FreeStyle Libre is to apply, activate, and use4,20. 
FreeStyle Libre 2 reader showing a glucose reading

What you need to know.

Applying your new sensor is a lot easier than you might think – and it doesn’t require painful finger pricks10. So, why wait another moment? Let’s get started.

To begin, select an area on the back of your upper arm and follow these steps:

Selecting a site at the back of the upper arm where a sensor can be applied
Step 1

Select site on back of upper arm.

Washing the site with soap, water, and towel dry
Step 2

Wash site using plain soap and water, then towel dry.

Cleaning the site with alcohol
Step 3

Clean the area with an alcohol wipe and air dry.

Once you’ve prepared the back of your upper arm, apply the sensor using the two-piece applicator.

Applying the sensor at the back of the upper arm
Step 1

Place the sensor applicator over the prepared site and push down firmly.

Removing the sensor applicator once the sensor is applied
Step 2

The sensor should now be attached to your skin.

Pressing the adhesive surrounding the sensor
Step 3

Secure by pressing down gently with your finger around the edge.

Once your sensor is applied, pair it with your reader43.

Alt Text Here
Step 1

Press “Scan New Sensor” on your reader43.

Alt Text Here
Step 2

Hold your device near the sensor and slowly scan it.

Alt Text Here
Step 3

You will hear a beep or feel a vibration upon activation.

60 minute countdown before the sensor is ready for scanning
Step 4

The sensor can be used to check your glucose after 60 minutes.

Your device will alert you when it’s time to replace your sensor. To remove it:

Pressing the adhesive surrounding the sensor
Step 1

Pull up the adhesive edge, then slowly peel it off the skin.

Alt Text Here
Step 2

A soft moisturizer can make it easier to remove.

Removing the sensor applicator once the sensor is applied
Step 3

Discard the used sensor and apply the new one as you did before.

View video for full details.

You may also download these
helpful guides for more information.  
Sensor Adhesion Guide (PDF)

Diabetes is a

balancing act.

We are here to

support you.

Join the MyFreeStyle program and get helpful insights on how food and exercise affect glucose levels, advice for tracking your progress, and much more. First time user? You may qualify for a free29 sensor!
Sign Up Now
Woman with a FreeStyle Libre sensor on her arm smiling while balancing on a gym ball

You might also like:

Man looking at his FreeStyle Libre 2 reader while working in a workshop

Put our digital tools to work for you.

Use our tools to learn how food, medicine and exercise impact your glucose. Share26
these insights with your healthcare team if you wish.
Learn About Our Digital Tools
Grandparents spending quality time with their grandchild in the kitchen

Every glucose reading tells a story.

FreeStyle Libre systems give you a complete picture17 of where your glucose is and where it’s headed so you can see what affects your glucose levels. 
Understand Your Data
Woman wearing a sensor while in the middle of a run

Here for you.
At every step.

We want you to live life freely – without any barriers. So, if you have questions, or need further support, all you need to do is ask.
Get Support Now
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