Chest binding is a crucial practice for many transgender and nonbinary individuals, as it can alleviate body dysphoria. FTM tape is one popular method for chest binding, but it is important to follow safety guidelines to avoid any harm to the body. In this post, we will provide a comprehensive guide to FTM tape chest binding, including tips for safe and comfortable binding and advices for beginners.
What is FTM tape chest binding?
FTM tape chest binding involves using medical tape to bind the chest tissue in order to create a more masculine or androgynous appearance. While this method can be effective, it can also be dangerous if done improperly. It is crucial to follow safety guidelines and not bind for too long in order to avoid long-term damage to the body.
Chest binding tape is a type of medical tape that is designed to flatten the chest. It is also known as kinesiology tape or KT tape. The tape is placed on the skin, and it works by pulling the skin and tissue inwards. Chest binding tape is a popular choice because it can be more comfortable than a binder, especially in hot weather. It also allows for more flexibility of movement, and it can be easier to conceal under clothing.
Binders vs Tape
Binders are a type of compression garment designed to flatten the chest. They come in different styles, including full-length and half-length. Binders are generally more effective than chest binding tape for people with a larger chest, and they can provide a more complete flattening effect. They are also easier to use than chest binding tape, requiring less skill.
However, binders can be less comfortable than chest binding tape, especially in hot weather. They can also restrict movement and make it more difficult to breathe. Additionally, binders can be more noticeable under clothing, making them more difficult to conceal.
How to apply FTM tape
1. Clean your chest
Before applying the tape, it's important to clean your chest with soap and water. This will help the tape stick better and prevent skin irritation. You can also use rubbing alcohol to make sure your skin is completely clean and dry before applying the tape.
Prepare a guard for your nipples using a gauze, tissue or plaster.
2. Apply the first piece of tape
Start by applying a piece of tape at the bottom of your chest, near your ribcage. Pull the tape taut and smooth it out to avoid wrinkles. Make sure the tape is not too tight, as this can cause discomfort or even damage your skin.
Make sure to round the edges, this will prevent the tape from sticking to your clothes and will come off more quickly.
3. Apply the second piece of tape
Apply a second piece of tape above the first, pulling it taut and smoothing it out as you go. The two pieces of tape should overlap slightly. Make sure the tape is not too loose or too tight, as this can affect the effectiveness of the tape. Please notice: our chest tape is 10 cm x 5 mt. A single piece of tape should be enough for smaller chests, but more is needed for bigger ones.
4. Repeat
Continue applying pieces of tape, working your way up your chest. Make sure to apply each piece of tape taut and smooth out any wrinkles. You can also use a mirror or ask someone for help to make sure the tape is applied correctly.
5. Check for comfort
Once you've applied all the tape, check to make sure it's comfortable and doesn't restrict your breathing. If it feels too tight, remove some of the tape and try again. You can also adjust the tape during the day if you feel any discomfort or if it starts to come off.
6. Remove the tape
To remove the tape, gently peel it off your chest in a downward motion. Take your time and don't rush, as pulling the tape off too quickly can cause skin irritation. Use body oil to make the removal process easier and less painful.
If you wear the tape for several days, blisters and small redness may occur.
If you experience constant pain and discomfort, remove the tape immediately.
Results may vary
Results from using ftm chest tape may vary based on several factors.
It is important to consider that every body is different.
Look around you. You will notice that it is rare to find someone with a completely flat chest.
Not all bodies are the same and the presence of more or less fat or muscle mass can create a different result.
What if the tape doesn't stick to my skin?
To activate the adhesive bond, rub tape onto the skin. Make sure that the skin is dry and free of sweat, oils, or lotions. If you're still having trouble, use rubbing alcohol to clean the area and remove any excess oils or sweat.
If the tape is stretched too much, it can cause it to release after application, as it may pull in on itself and weaken the bond. To prevent this, ensure that there is no tension on the first and last two inches of tape when applying it, as this guarantees that the tape is correctly applied and that the bond between the tape and the skin is secure.
How long can I wear it?
When using adhesive tape on your skin, it is important to take proper care of it to avoid any skin irritation or discomfort.
Make sure to keep the tape in contact with your skin for the recommended duration of 4-5 days. This means that you can go about your daily activities such as going to the beach, pool, or shower without worrying about the tape coming off.
However, it is important to note that the adhesion of the tape will weaken day by day, mainly due to sweat. This means that you may need to adjust the tape from time to time to ensure that it remains in place.
Additionally, it is recommended that you remove the tape as soon as you notice it stop compressing your chest. This will help to prevent any skin irritation or discomfort that may be caused by the tape rubbing against your skin.
Finally, if possible, let your skin breathe for a few days before applying another tape. This will help to ensure that your skin remains healthy and free from any irritation or discomfort.
By following these tips, you can ensure that you can use adhesive tape on your skin for up to 4-5 days without experiencing any discomfort or irritation.
We hope that these tips will be useful to you so that the application of our FTM tape is easier, faster and more comfortable. For any doubts or problems, do not hesitate to contact us.