If you're looking for different ways to bind, or maybe just an alternative to your current method, you might have heard of TransTape. TransTape is a compression free binding method that makes some people raise their eyebrows when they first hear about it. But fear not, TransTape is made for everybody, especially you!
Welcome!
You have stumbled upon some good stuff.
If this is your first time learning about TransTape, you're in the right place!
We're going to learn about TransTape as a product, how you can use it and a few reasons it might be a good fit for you.
Compression in binders too much? Worried about sensitive skin? Active lifestyle?
If you're already familiar with TransTape, you're more than welcome to stick or skip around and maybe learn something new.
I won't be too offended if you don't, though.
What Is TransTape
Brilliant.
That's it, that's a wrap on this section we can move along now.
But on a serious note, TransTape is the original body transformation system that allows users to feel free and unrestricted in their skin.
Helps the user find their freedom, if you will.
TransTape was created in 2017 by Kaiyote Jackson, a transgender man, after binding with a "traditional" binder and knowing that there had to be a better way.
He also experimented with kinectic tape but the pre cut strips proved to be too narrow and they didn't really meet expectations in terms of binding.
After researching companies, he found one that was able to produce higher quality tape that was wider and offered different skin tones.
Which we know today as TransTape.
TransTape can be gender affirming for many people and can be used in place of self-affirming products like binders, bras, gaffes, packers and other products, like harnesses.
And it's a great alternative because it allows backless binding, compression free comfort and it's even waterproof so you can keep it on all day through everything, even showers!
And not just all day either, for multiple days. 5 days, and even longer for some!
No matter who you are or what you do throughout your days, TransTape is up for the task and will keep you feeling free as yourself for days at a time.
Breathe Freely
Unlike traditional binders, and bras, TransTape is backless and strapless.
Compression free, my friends.
The compression caused by products like binders can make it very difficult to breathe throughout the day for some people.
Especially users who struggle with conditions like asthma.
If you've never worn a binder before, they compress in order to create a "flatter" or more "masculine" appearance to the person wearing it.
Which means in the process of compressing, your torso, specifically your ribcage, is being squeezed. And not only can that become uncomfortable, it's not exactly the safest option for people who already struggle with breathing without anything squeezing them.
Due to the compression in binders, it's actually recommended to only wear them for 8 hours at a time. And if you remember from earlier, you can wear TransTape for up to 5 days or more.
I'm not trying to discourage you from binding with a binder, by the way.
Many people feel absolute euphoria while wearing a binder and that's amazing and totally valid!
But unfortunately, not everybody feels the same and some people simply aren't able to use a binder even if they really want to.
Which is why it's important to know that you are not alone and that there are alternatives!
Alternatives like TransTape.
Sensitive Skin
Do you or a loved one suffer from sensitive skin?
Well, you're not alone!
TransTape is made from a blend of 95% cotton and 5% spandex.
The adhesive used to bond the tape to your skin is hypoallergenic, latex free, medical grade and non medicated.
Even though TransTape is made with high quality ingredients, it is not a guarantee that it will get along with everyone's skin. It's very important that you perform a test strip before applying TransTape for the first time. Always check in with your body! When monitoring your test strip, look out for any skin irritation that may appear as a rash or intense itchiness.
If you find yourself wearing TransTape and have a little bit of itchiness, but not unbearable of course, you can apply it using a thin layer of milk of magnesia underneathe the tape. This helps alleviate some of the mild irriation and make for a more comfortable application.
If you're more concerned with the removal of the adhesive rather than the application, don't sweat it, we have that covered too.
The longer you wear your tape, the more the adhesive is able to bond to your skin. So it's pretty understandable to be concerned with removal.
First, never remove your TransTape without oil.
TransTape Removal Oil, which contains jojoba oil, is always recommended but it's not the only option.
Olive oil, vegetable oil, canola, avocado oil and other common kitchen oils are all acceptable substitutions.
On top of removal oil, TransTape also offers Repairing Salve to apply to your skin after application, or any time. This salve helps rehydrate your skin while promoting healthy skin elasticity and healing.
The salve is petroleum free and contains coconut oil, shea butter, beeswax, cedarwood oil, monarda oil and frankincense oil. Never apply it to broken or open skin.
Skin care is very important, especially if you are an almost daily TransTape user.
Don't forget the off days.
Try not to let the fear of having sensitive skin get in the way of trying TransTape, you may be pleasantly surprised!
Activity Ready
Whether you're someone who enjoys relaxing on the couch or someone who enjoys mountain biking through the woods, TransTape is ready!
TransTape will keep you comfortable as you play Sims and while you crush Spartan Race.
I mentioned it before, but TransTape is waterproof so feel free to reenact Free Willy in the ocean too.
The durable tape and adhesive make it possible to stretch and provide you with full range of motion without losing out on any comfort.
And once again, no compression so you get to breathe freely!
This is especially helpful if you have a fast paced job or are an avid gym goer.
I've pushed this tape to its limits, in my humble opinion.
I've swam in a lake or two, sweat in the gym, climbed a few mountains, jumped out of a couple planes and even competed in muddy obstacle course races.
TransTape never gave up on me!
I've gone to the gym as soon as an hour after an application and didn't have any issues, so there isn't necessarily a wait time on when you can start living after you apply either.
However, I would recommend waiting a couple hours before showering or diving into the pool. Water could be a little bit different when it comes to the adhesive effectively bonding to your skin.
Compared to the traditional binder, TransTape is a little bit more accomodating to someone who lives an active lifestyle.
Because, once again, TransTape is compression free and doesn't have a restriction on how many hours you can feel comfortable in your own skin.
Using TransTape ensures that you are activity ready at any time and any place.
Friend wants to go on a spontaneous hike? Go for it!
No need to worry about when you'll have to take a binder break.
Friend wants to binge watch Golden Girls over the weekend? Do it!
TransTape is made for everybody, no matter what your day looks like.
Give It a Whirl!
Hopefully this gave you a little bit more confidence when it comes to deciding whether or not you'll give TransTape a chance.
And hopefully we're leaning more towards yes now.
No pressure, but it's a super great thing that you're going to love.
Or maybe it's not for you, that's cool too.
But if you do decide to give it a shot, let me stress one thing to you.
Give it time.
TransTape comes with a learning curve, nobody gets it perfect or even right the first time.
I probably used at least an entire roll between my first couple applications!
Most of it on the first application.
Nobody is perfect at anything the first time they try!
If they say otherwise, they're peddling falsehoods and that's not nice.
And if you're a little nervous to try something completely new and different from what you're used to, that's actually totally normal and happens to me all the time.
It takes a lot to come out of your comfort zone! But sometimes the best things in life are just outside of our comfort zones.
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Plus, you're not alone if you decide to give it a whirl!
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Aside from good friends and company, the TransTape website has a live chat where they can help you with your application step by step!
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There's also a video course with multiple application tutorials for all body types, FAQs, this lovely blog and even a downloadable version of the official user manual!
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Anyone can find their freedom in TransTape, everyone is welcome.
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But no matter what you choose, you're valid.
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And never forget it.
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Until next time,
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Stay awesome,
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Stay beautiful,
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Stay you.
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You are loved and it gets better.
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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.
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Beards, Socials, Tape and Writing
Use code FINALLYME10 and Find Your Freedom with TransTape!
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https://linktr.ee/jamieakajames
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