Body Dysphoria

@raccooncutie30

Here is the document in writing.

Chest Taping information & guide.

Chest taping is an alternative method for reducing chest dysphoria/reducing chest size. Binders

can compress the ribs or restrict breathing, so taping makes it more comfortable for everyday

wear, sports and some brands even can be used for swimming.

Important: Taping should always be used with care to avoid skin damage. If you have sensitive skin

or a history of allergic reactions, a patch test is recommended before full application.

Further benefits:

• No tight compression, so it’s easier to breathe and doesn’t make you overheat.

• You can wear it for 3–5 days straight, even in the shower or while swimming.

• Creates a smooth, flat look without the bulky look a binder may give you.

• More movement, less restriction. Great for sports, exercise, everyday activities.

• Less risk of rib pain and breathing issues.

• It works under all kinds of clothing, including tight shirts.

• Unlike binders, you don’t have to put it on and take it off every day. You can apply it in a way

that works best for your body shape and comfort so no need to worry about finding the right

size.

These are different types of tape that people use for chest taping, including:

• Trans Tape & Similar Brands – Designed for skin use, stretchy, and long-lasting.

• Kinesiology Tape (KT Tape) – Made for sports injuries, more affordable but less durable.

• Medical Tape – Sometimes used, but often too stiff and not as comfortable.

• Athletic Tape (Not as Recommended) – Can be unsafe and harsh on the skin

Some issues that taping may cause:

• Can cause blisters if the skin pulls and breaks. Be careful when removing the tape.

• Can be itchy until you get used to it.

• Can pull out chest hair. Shaving your chest hair or cutting the hairs, may help.

Trans tape works great for larger chests. If you use trans tape, here are some tips to stay safe:

• Avoid putting the trans tape all the way around your back and your chest. This can cause

breathing difficulties and skin compression.

• Don’t stretch your skin or the tape to the point that it’s flat. You may want to give off the

appearance of muscles. A tight trans tape covering can make your chest muscles appear

dull.

• Touching it can lessen its adhesive properties so avoid touching the sticky part.

Further reading on application and info:

https://www.gendergp.com/trans-tape-how-to-use-chest-binding-alternative/

Patch Test:

• Place a small piece of on the inside of your forearm with zero tension.

• Wait 24 hours to see if any irritation occurs.

• If no irritation develops, you're good to go!

Step by step written guide:

STEP 1: Prep Your Skin

(You may need to shave any excessive chest hair, trimmed to about a quarter inch is okay.

• For the best adhesive properties, skin should be clean and free of lotions or oils.

• Wash your chest with a non-moisturizing soap.

• Rinse thoroughly, and ensure the skin is completely dry before starting.

STEP 2: Nipple covers:

(Using the tape with cotton pads)

1. Cut 2 strips and round corners of the strips with scissors.

2. Place cotton pad/alternative skin safe padding onto center of tape strips.

3. Gently apply it to your nipple, making sure it’s smooth and not too tight.

(Using medical gauze, skin safe fabric)

1. Cut a small piece of gauze to cover the nipple.

2. Place gauze/fabric over nipple and secure using surgical tape or tape you’re using.

3. Make sure it’s secure but not too tight.

(Using Band-Aids – large fabric or breathable Band-Aids are best)

1. Place Band-Aids over each nipple to cover them completely.

2. Press down the edges gently to ensure they stick well.

There are lots of other methods of safe nipple covers, you can also buy silicone ones and other skin

safe nipple covers. Make sure any adhesive does not touch the nipple if using.

STEP 3: Cut your strips

1. Cut your strips to size and round the corners to prevent curling.

2. Start smaller than you think as tape stretches.

• For a smaller build: Use 3 strips.

• For a medium build: Use 3-4 strips.

• For a larger build: Start with 4 strips and adjust as needed.

STEP 4: Application

Links to guides and videos for more information about applications and removals

Transtape: How to (written guide)

https://transtape.life/pages/how-to-transtape

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Transtape: How to (video guide)

https://transtape.life/pages/video-course

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OffBinary: The ultimate guide to chest taping

https://offbinary.com/blogs/articles/trans-tape-the-ultimate-guide

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Transtape: First time users

https://transtape.life/blogs/blog/first-time-users-before-you-tape

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Trans guy supply: How to bind with tape:

https://transguysupply.com/blogs/news/how-to-bind-withtape?srsltid=AfmBOoqWDB_2Nv11hrdxycP9ojSB_hJY-70lCSeWFY8tLRnVPdcv_xlG

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YouTube videos

Some give recommendations and more info for you.

https://youtu.be/7HREt_Rbyd0?si=o48lpFLia4wZO5IZ (Trans tape tutorial)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eNOF5nPSjJU (How to bind with KT tape)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LQuHk4oqqQo (Do’s and don’ts)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g_bCt9s0H9I (Binding tape tutorial: application & removal)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YwP0NAjKg84&t=252s (TransTape Application | Size DD)