The success of wearable medical devices depends on more than just the hardware or software that powers them. One of the most overlooked, yet essential components, is the adhesive that holds the device to the skin. In a recent Tape Lab summit, we spoke with Josh Gerber and Nate Pierce from Dermamed about the critical role that adhesives play and why customization is key.
1.The Power of Customization in Medical Adhesives
At Dermamed, they take a unique approach to medical adhesives: customization. Rather than offering a catalog of standard products, Dermamed works closely with OEMs to design adhesives tailored to the specific needs of each project. Whether it’s adjusting the adhesive formula, changing the liner, or mixing materials to improve performance, Dermamed creates solutions that are as unique as the devices they support.
According to Josh Gerber, Vice President of Sales at Dermamed:
“We don’t compete with our customers because we don’t have any finished devices. We’re strictly a tape manufacturer, supplying custom solutions for every project.”
2.Supporting Startups with Smaller Runs
One of the biggest challenges for medical startups is scaling production in a way that’s cost-effective. Dermamed addresses this issue by offering smaller production runs, allowing startups to test new adhesives and bring their products to market without the large upfront commitment. This flexibility allows companies to experiment, test, and iterate on adhesive solutions at a pilot level, ultimately leading to a better final product.
3.Early Involvement is Key
One theme that emerged in the conversation is the importance of early involvement in the product development process. The earlier Dermamed can get involved in a project, the more value they can bring—fine-tuning the adhesive to match the specific needs of the device and its application.
As Nate Pierce, Regional Sales Manager at Dermamed, explained:
One theme that emerged in the conversation is the importance of early involvement “Once we know how the product is being used, what environment it will be in, and what wear time is desired, we can start designing a custom adhesive that meets those needs.”
Continuous Collaboration Beyond Design
One theme that emerged in the conversation is the importance of early involvementWhat sets Dermamed apart isn’t just the customization—it’s their commitment to ongoing support. They don’t simply hand off the adhesive and walk away. Instead, they stay involved at every step of the process, from the initial design to working with converters and manufacturers to ensure the adhesive performs as expected.
Conclusion:
In a crowded market, having the right adhesive can be the difference between success and failure. Dermamed’s commitment to customization, flexibility, and ongoing collaboration makes them an invaluable partner for medical device companies. By involving adhesive experts like Dermamed early in the design process, you can ensure that your wearable device is not only functional but comfortable, reliable, and ready for market success.
#WearableTech #MedicalDevices #HealthcareInnovation #AdhesiveSolutions #Customization