You just learned about TransTape and you might be wondering if there's anything you should know before trying it for the first time. If that's you, this post could be of service. This is everything you should know about TransTape before your first application and a few resources to check out once you're ready to apply!
Good afternoon to you all!
Or good morning and evening, to those of you in different time zones.
If you're tuning into this post, it's probably because you're new to TransTape.
If I was right, congrats!
You have stumbled upon an incredible thing.
Personally, TransTape transformed my entire life.
See what I did there?
And if you didn't know, the "Trans" in "TransTape" actually stands for transformation and not transgender. TransTape can help you transform your body no matter who you are.
Binding and packing with TransTape has given, and still gives, me a new sense of freedom and a massive boost in confidence.
So.
Thank you.
Now, let's go ahead and get into it.
What Is TransTape
TransTape came to be in 2017, when creator Kaiyote discovered that he was Transgender.
Like many other transgender men, Kaiyote began using a "traditional" binder and found himself restricted and overall, uncomfortable.
Especially on those hot and humid days.
After researching and seeking out alternatives, he eventually came across what we know now as TransTape.
And TransTape can last for an entire week.
"Traditional" binders can only be worn safely for only 8 hours.
That's a pretty big difference, most of us looking to bind would probably prefer the option that allows us to bind our chests for a week. But everyone is different and there's nothing wrong with wearing a binder.
Sometimes it's nice to have another option, though.
TransTape is made from a blend of 95% cotton and 5% spandex with a hypoallergenic medical grade acrylic adhesive that is latex free and non-medicated. And it's compression free.
Yup.
Whether you're a hiker, a biker, a swimmer or a napper, your tape can keep you securely binded for up to a week.
But TransTape isn't just for binding.
It's the original body transformation system and an alternative to many gender affirming products including binders, bras, gaffes and harnesses.
Test Strip
Regardless of what you're planning to do with your TransTape, it is extremely important to perform a test strip before anything.
Ugh, but that's so much work.
Listen.
I know.
I'm not one for any tiny details or any type of directions to be honest.
So believe me when I tell you I understand those of you scoffing at the idea of doing a test strip before you do the thing you've been waiting to do since you ordered it a week ago.
But.
You need to do it.
This helps ensure that you are not allergic to the adhesive or tape and helps narrow down reasons for any complications you may encounter while perfecting your technique in the future.
Whether or not you consider your skin sensitive, this is important.
If you experience any discomfort, blisters, rashes or severe itchiness, remove your TransTape immediately.
Although TransTape is made with high quality materials, it's still unfortunately not going to be a perfect match for every single person's skin.
Which is why test strips are so important and should never be skipped.
At minimum you should wear your test strip for a few hours.
Ideally you should wear your test strip for 24 to 48 hours.
And we're looking for the most ideal situation here, folks.
Do a test strip.
Prepping
Before we peel and stick, there's going to be a little bit of preparation involved first.
And before we even round corners or prep our skin, it's extremely important to get into a good mindset.
Yes, we're talking about setting the mood with some candles and good music.
Jokes aside, when we're using TransTape, there's a good chance you may be handling a part of your body that might not be in your top ten favorite things.
And that's okay, by the way. You're not alone, I struggle with it myself sometimes.
A good way to prepare yourself is making sure you're in a good mindset which could mean doing things like setting aside extra time so you don't feel rushed, playing your favorite songs or planning to binge watch your favorite TV show right after with a cup of your favorite drink.
Or all of the above or something else!
Aside from being in a good head-space for taping, it could also be a good idea to measure out your strips and round the corners before you go to apply.
I typically use about 4 strips. After cutting them, with the Official TransTape Scissors of course, to my preferred length and I round the corners of each strip before I start to apply. This saves time between applying strips and makes the process go a little bit smoother, at least for me.
And rounding your corners isn't just visually more appealing.
It can actually help your application last longer and prevent your tape from peeling too soon.
I know, another seemingly small detail that sounds like too much work.
But you should really do it.
Unlike the test strip though, rounding your corners isn't technically mandatory.
You'll still have a good experience.
Could be better if you round the corners, though.
Last but not least, you need to make sure you prep your skin.
A good way to do that is to take some rubbing alcohol and clean the area you are about to tape. This gets rid of any natural oils that could interfere with the tape's adhesive.
If you're someone who uses oil-based bath or skincare products, you should definitely consider cleaning off your skin before every application. The oils from these products will affect the way the adhesive bonds to our skin.
Making the tape much more likely to peel.
Live Chat and Video Courses
You're excited, the test strip has been done, you're in a good mindset, strips are cut, rounded and your skin is clean and dry.
It's finally time to tape.
So.
If you've already read the user manual and still feel like you could use some extra guidance, I have a few suggestions.
Of course, there's always this informative and reliable blog but not everybody learns by reading and there's nothing wrong with that at all.
If you haven't noticed in the past, the TransTape website offers a live chat option where someone can answer any questions you may have about applying your TransTape and help guide you through your application.
Anything from tips, tricks, troubleshooting, suggestions or just some encouragement, live chat has you covered.
So cool.
And if the live chat isn't something you're comfortable doing, you can also find an entire video course on the website full of applications from people with different body types.
And if you're still unsure about your application, there are also plenty of TikTok and YouTube tutorials by other users that can be extremely helpful.
However, I strongly suggest at least starting with the tutorials on the official website or social media pages to ensure you're being shown how to tape correctly and safely.
You're Ready
You've learned about what exactly TransTape is, test strips and why you need to do one, prepping your application and resources you can use to help guide you through your first application.
That's a lot, actually.
BUT.
You, my friend, are ready for your first application.
And you know what?
You're gonna do great.
And always keep in mind, finding the right way to tape for you can take a few applications.
Nobody gets it perfect the first time!
There's definitely a learning curve and there's nothing wrong with going through an entire roll, like me and many more did, before getting used to using tape.
Try to be patient and kind to yourself like you would be to your best friend.
You deserve it.
Until next time,
Stay awesome,
Stay beautiful,
Stay you.
You are loved and it gets better.
Talk to you soon,
Jamie
Welcome to the cool kids club!
My name is Jamie and I'm a young (ish) transman born and raised in the Hudson Valley of New York state. I started my transition in May of 2017 and since then, I've made it my mission to live unapologetically as myself and spread awareness through my pursuit of happiness. I am the creator and writer of Spilling T blog, a proud affiliate of TransTape and when I'm not outside with the best dog ever or hanging out with my two cats, I make and sell my own beard care products through Buckaroo's Beard Care. I'm always looking for my next adventure and have been skydiving, road-tripping, hiking in the mountains and even served for a short time in the United States Marine Corps. My life has had its fair share of twists and turns and I hope to use those experiences to create helpful and relatable content that may help someone else navigate a difficult time in life.
Beards, Socials, Tape and Writing
Use code FINALLYME10 and Find Your Freedom with TransTape!
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