Versatile Chest Binding: The Ultimate Guide to TransTape
If you’ve ever sought out a flatter chest, you’re probably no stranger to the frustrations that accompany trying to find the perfect binding solution. For years, the only real option has been the a compression garment known as a binder. While effective for many, binders can also feel restrictive, hot, and aren’t safe for extended wear or exercise. In fact, the discomfort of binders is what motivated founder, Kaiyote Jackson, to invent TransTape back in 2017.
Unlike traditional binders, TransTape is safe for most people, can be worn for days, and can help you achieve a variety of different looks depending on your preferences. There’s a good reason why it’s created a lot of buzz. Queyen, the education and outreach coordinator at TransTape, joined our staff for an in-depth training. As always, She Bop’s goal is to educate our associates so they can expertly help you with all your queries. Here’s what we learned:
What Is TransTape?
TransTape is a kinesiology tape designed specifically for binding the chest. Unlike a traditional binder, which is a garment you put on and take off, TransTape is applied directly to your skin and can be worn for up to five days at a time—through showers, swimming, sleeping, exercise, you name it.
The concept is simple: the tape is applied over the nipples and flattens the chest tissue by pulling it back and to the side. By dispersing the tissue, you can create either a flatter, more androgynous contour, or a buffer style that mimics pectoral muscles. TransTape gives you a look that’s often more natural than a binder, without the tightness around your ribs and back.
Beyond binding, Queyen pointed out that the “trans” in TransTape actually stands for “transformation.” This product isn’t exclusively for members of the trans community but can be used for a variety of other reasons, such as covering up while at the beach for folks with breasts who don’t enjoy wearing traditional swim tops. Or like Queyen, it can be used for drag performances and when she likes to go hiking topless! The variety of different uses for TransTape is one of the highlights of this product.
Why Choose TransTape?
Freedom: Once you know how to properly apply TransTape, you forget it's there. You can breathe, stretch, swim, exercise, and sleep without feeling constrained. This is an absolute game changer for people who are used to all the restrictions that come from traditional binders.
No Lines: Because it's just tape, there are no giveaway lines under your clothing and it eliminates the uniboob look that can happen with binders, instead creating two distinct natural-shaped pecs. Plus it eliminates the bulk of a binder, so you can wear thin t-shirts and tank tops.
Long-Lasting Wear: A single application can last up to 5 days. This means you don't have to go through the daily routine of putting on and taking off a binder. Unlike traditional binders, you can stay out for longer than 8 hours without having to worry about hurting yourself of awkwardly taking it off at a social function. This obviously reduces the physical and mental toll.
Safety First: How to Use TransTape the Right Way
This is the most important part. While TransTape is considered safer than most binding practices (like using ace bandages), it still requires knowledge and care.
Do a Spot Test: Before you start using TransTape on your chest, apply a small patch to your side rib area and wear it for 24 hours. Some people have skin sensitivity to adhesive, so we want to make sure you’re not allergic before you apply it to your front. If you have redness, swelling, hives, irritation, remove the patch and contact She Bop staff, we are happy to help you find an alternative that’s safe for your body!
Note: If you only develop irritation when you’re binding with TransTape but not when you do a patch test, it’s likely that you’re applying it incorrectly (more on that in a second). Again, feel free to contact She Bop staff member or TransTape directly, we will do our best to troubleshoot with you!
Skin Prep is Key: Always start with clean, dry, and oil-free skin. Do not shave right before applying, as this can cause irritation. Trimming is a better option. Also, be careful not to tape your armpit hairs if you have any, to avoid some uncomfortable removal!
Round The Corners: Before applying, cut off the sharp corners of each strip of tape. This prevents the edges from catching on clothing and peeling up prematurely.
No Tension at Either End: This is the golden rule! When you apply the tape, the first and last half inch should be laid down without stretch. Only the middle section should be under tension as you pull the skin into place. This protects your delicate skin from peeling and prevents blisters or other irritation.
Be Kind to Your Skin: Always wear nipple guards when using TransTape. Never wear TransTape for longer than 5 days, and give your skin at least 8 hours (overnight) to a few days to breathe between applications. If you develop irritation, it might be a sign you’re wearing it too frequently, incorrectly, or that you need to switch to a different product.
Remove With Caution: You cannot just rip it off like a band-aid. You must use oil (ideally the official TransTape removal oil, though you can also use coconut oil or any cooking oil in a pinch) to saturate and dissolve the adhesive. Let it sit for 3 to 5 minutes so it has time to really break down the bond. Massage your chest and remove it slowly in the direction of hair growth while you’re in the shower.
How to Apply Trans Tape Like a Pro
Achieving the perfect look with TransTape takes a bit of practice, but once you’ve mastered the process it’s easy and quick.
Decide on a Desired Look: Before you even order your roll of tape, you need to think about what you’re trying to achieve. You’ll want to measure your cup-size (If, like Queyen you never went to Victoria’s Secret to get measured, check out the handy video from TransTape to guide you on figuring this out). Depending on your chest size and the desired look, you can choose more full-coverage or a smaller width. Practice placing your breast tissue to the side with your hands to get a better idea of how you’ll need to tape. Some people use one strip, others use two. You can go for a flat look, by simply moving the breast tissue to the side. Or you can achieve a fuller pec by scooping it up first with one strip and then taping it down with the second. Note: While many people with larger chests love using TransTape, you may not be able to get a completely “flat” look. Remember that the goal isn’t for everyone to achieve the same look. Work with your body to find the style of taping that makes you feel the most confident! Some people with larger chests opt to use a loose binder in combination with TransTape. If you’re using this method, be sure to give your chest plenty of time to rest to avoid injury.
Prepare Your Skin: As we mentioned in the section above, it’s crucial to adhere to the safety protocols when using Transtape. Apply it on clean, dry skin from the shower. That includes wearing nipple guards and preparing your skin for application. Every order of TransTape comes with a set of small and large nipple guards.
Prepare Your Tape: Each roll is 16.5 feet long. Depending on the size of your chest, measure out how much tape you need and cut it to size using the handing guidelines. Most people use anywhere from 3-5 sections. While you certainly can use more, you typically won’t get a better result by over taping, you’ll just end up wasting your money. You’ll typically get better results by using two shorter sections on top of one another rather than one very long strip. Cut off the edges.
Slowly Apply from Nipple to Side: Peel back the tape, but leave enough paper to have a handle. Start slightly over the nipple and pull the tape towards your ribs. !! Make sure to keep at least a half inch of slack at both ends of the tape!! Again, the direction and pressure with which you’ll apply the tape depends on your desired look. Use your free hand to rub and smooth as you work your way towards the side. As you get to the end, remove the last bit of paper, and using two hands rub in the end well so it doesn’t come up.
Ta-da! It’s that simple. Now you can wear it for up to 5 days.
A few more expert tips:
Queyen has been using TransTape for over 5 years and was kind enough to share some bonus tips to make your experience even more enjoyable.
Don’t Tape with Your Arms Up! When you’re taping, be sure to keep your arms down, if you raise them above your shoulders, you’re stretching the skin and you won’t end up with the look you were hoping for. If someone is applying it for you, bring your arms out slightly, without raising them. If you’re taping yourself, you’ll need to perfect the “chicken wing” position as Queyen calls it!
Stagger the Pieces at the Ends: The tape adheres best to skin not tape on tape. So if you’re using two different pieces try to avoid as much overlap as possible. When you get to the ends, let the top piece go further than the bottom one, so it’s sticking to skin and locking the piece underneath it in position.
Use an Alcohol Wipe: Even if you just hopped out of the shower and your skin is clean and dry, the tape may not adhere properly because many soaps leave a residue film. Use an alcohol wipe to remove any oil, sweat, or soap before applying it.
Try Different Arrangements: There are lots of different ways to tape, and what works best for you might not be the same as everyone else. As we mentioned it’s common to use one or two strips, but some people use three! Others use one large piece but split it in the middle towards their ribs so they can slightly overlap them. Sometimes you’ll need more diagonal application, other times you’ll need a horizontal placement. Practice makes perfect. Don’t get discouraged if your first try doesn’t yield the desired result.
“Brothers Not Twins!” as Queyen says, our chests are not perfectly symmetrical. While you can do your best to tape them to match, it’s okay if there’s a bit of asymmetry. Depending on your natural body shape, you may be able to use tape to actually smooth out asymmetry, but for others it may be unavoidable no matter what you do. Bodies are quirky, just embrace it!
Resist the Urge to Overstretch: Many newbies will place too much pressure on the tape and inevitably hurt their skin. But the sooner you learn the limits, the more comfortable it will be to wear. If you’re buying TransTape for the first time, make sure to also grab a bottle of their salve, that way you can take care of your skin because mistakes do happen!
Self-Care to Ease Dysphoria: One last piece of lovely Queyen wisdom for you, she said “If you’re applying TransTape on a strict schedule, that means you’re applying it 73 times a year!” So she recommends giving yourself a hearty dose of positive affirmation while you’re in the mirror applying and especially while removing. “If you’re giving yourself some affirmation 73 times a year, maybe you’ll start to believe it!” Thank you Queyen, we love your attitude.
TransTape can be a game changer for people looking for an alternative to traditional binders, or those who just want to experiment with different chest presentations from time to time. Your journey is unique. Be patient with yourself as you figure out how to tape in a way that works for you. Be sure to prioritize your safety. And most of all, celebrate the tools that help you express your truest self.
Note: Please consult with an affirming healthcare provider for any health concerns and always follow the official safety guidelines provided by TransTape. TransTape has an incredible library of blogs, video tutorials, and user manuals on their website to ensure you have a positive experience. Do not hesitate to reach out to us or them with any product questions. Happy Binding!