Over 95% of Vively users report that applying a CGM sensor is painless or causes only minimal discomfort.
What actually goes into your skin?
When a CGM sensor is applied, a tiny, flexible filament is placed just under the skin. This filament measures glucose in the surrounding interstitial fluid using a gentle electrochemical sensing process.
Because the filament is:
very small
soft and flexible
designed to be biocompatible
most people don’t feel it once it’s in place.
There is no traditional needle left in your skin after application — the applicator inserts the filament quickly and then retracts.
What does the application feel like?
Most users describe the sensation as:
a light tap or pressure
a quick pinch lasting less than a second
or nothing noticeable at all
If any sensation is felt, it’s typically very brief and significantly milder than a blood test or injection.
What about after it’s applied?
Once the sensor is on:
You shouldn’t feel ongoing pain
It shouldn’t interfere with daily activities
Most people forget it’s there within minutes
Any mild awareness at the beginning usually fades quickly.
Tips to make application more comfortable
Choose a clean, flat area on the back of your arm
Let the skin fully dry after cleaning
Relax your arm during application
Avoid areas with scars, bruises, or irritation
Key takeaway
Applying a CGM sensor is quick and designed to be comfortable.
For most people, it’s painless or only briefly noticeable, and once applied, the sensor should feel unnoticeable during everyday life.