Description
3M Micropore Surgical Tape 50mm — Box of 6 Rolls
3M Micropore is a paper-backed, hypoallergenic surgical tape used to secure dressings, electrodes and lightweight tubing. Its breathable backing lets moisture evaporate rather than trapping it against the skin, which makes it one of the gentler options for extended wear and for patients with fragile or sensitive skin. It's a staple in podiatry clinics, general practice, aged care and home first aid kits across Australia.
This listing is the 50mm width, supplied as a box of 6 rolls. Also searched as micropore tape, 3M micropore surgical tape, or micro pore tape — same product.
Choosing between 50mm and 12.5mm
Micropore comes in several widths, and the right one depends on what you're securing. The 50mm width on this page is the broad option — it covers larger dressings in a single strip, holds securely across the dorsum of the foot or the lower leg, and saves time when you're taping down a bigger dressing. It can also be torn lengthways if you need something narrower from the same roll.
Our 12.5mm width, box of 24 is the narrow option — better suited to toes, digits, small dressings and securing electrode leads, where a 50mm strip would be unwieldy. Clinics doing regular nail surgery generally keep the narrow width on hand; the 50mm is the better general-purpose stock item.
Key features
- Hypoallergenic, gentle on fragile and sensitive skin
- Breathable paper backing allows moisture vapour to escape
- Latex-free
- Conformable and adheres reliably, including to slightly damp skin
- Tears cleanly by hand in both directions — no scissors needed
- Leaves minimal adhesive residue on removal
- 50mm width rolls, supplied in a box of 6
How to apply
Tear the required length by hand and apply to clean skin, either side of the dressing rather than over the wound itself. Smooth it down without stretching — tension in the tape is a common cause of skin irritation and blistering under the edges. Replace at each dressing change.
Frequently asked questions
Is Micropore tape waterproof?
No. Micropore is a breathable paper tape, deliberately designed to let moisture escape rather than seal it in. It will loosen if soaked. If you need a waterproof option, a transparent film dressing or a waterproof tape is the appropriate choice.
Is Micropore suitable for sensitive or elderly skin?
It's one of the more commonly chosen tapes for exactly that reason — the adhesive is designed to be gentle and it removes with less trauma than cloth or plastic tapes. That said, skin tears remain a risk on very fragile skin, so remove slowly and support the skin as you go. Anyone with a known adhesive sensitivity should check with their clinician first.
How long can Micropore stay on?
It's suitable for extended wear and will often stay put for several days, though this varies considerably with the site, moisture and activity level. Change it in line with the dressing schedule advised by your clinician rather than leaving it until it falls off.
What's the difference between Micropore and Hypafix?
Both secure dressings, but they're built differently. Micropore is a paper tape — lighter, more economical, and ideal for lightweight dressings and general use. Hypafix is a non-woven fabric tape that's more conformable and provides full-coverage retention over the whole dressing, which suits larger or more mobile sites. Many clinics stock both and choose based on the dressing.
Can Micropore be used to secure TENS electrodes?
Yes — it's frequently used for holding electrodes and lightweight leads in place, particularly where the self-adhesive backing on an electrode has started to lose grip.
Why does the box contain 6 rolls?
The 50mm width is supplied in clinical packs of 6 rolls, which is the standard trade unit. For lower-volume use, the narrower widths come in different pack configurations.
Fast delivery across Australia.