You may have read the post for first time users tucking before coming here but if not, no worries! This post will have more detailed instructions on how to perfect your tuck with TransTape. I always recommend reading the test strip how to and the before you tape posts before going ahead with your first application. But if you haven't, no worries, we will still briefly cover the test strip and the basic preparation. Let's get to it!

 

Hey, friends!

 

And foes.

 

We gathered here today to discuss, you guessed it, watermelon.

 

I'm kidding.

 

We're talking about tucking with TransTape!

 

You may have read the previous post about tucking for the first time before coming here and if that's the case, you can skip ahead a little bit!

 

But if you feel like you need to know a little more before tucking or using TransTape in general, check out these posts:

 

Before You Tape

 

Test Strip

 

Before getting into the actual post and explaining how to tuck, as always, I'm going to give a brief recap on what exactly TransTape is.

 

And if you've read any of my previous posts, you've already been recapped plenty.

 

So feel free to skip ahead!

 

While I sob softly in the corner about people skipping sections.

 

I'm only kidding, or am I.

 

Regardless, here's the recap! I'll see you on the other side!

 

What's TransTape?

 

I already covered the usual recap on TransTape in the last first time user post so this is going to be short and sweet.

 

As always, feel free to skip through this part.

It'll only break my heart.

 

I'm kidding but also, please read.

 

TransTape is a high quality, body-safe tape that allows the user to toss bras, binders, gaffes and harnesses away and live freely in their skin.

 

Compression free.

 

TransTape is sweat-proof, waterproof and it's designed to move and stretch with your body for days at a time without restricting your movements.

 

The compression free and hypoallergenic design also gives users who have breathing difficulties or sensitive skin another option to feel free and safe in their skin.

 

TransTape is a pretty incredible thing.

 

Unlike other gender affirming products, TransTape doesn't limit you to how many hours you are able to wear it for.

 

You're good to go for days, my friends!

 

But of course, be mindful of your skin and look for signs of skin irritation or possible reactions. Because although TransTape is made with the highest quality materials possible, that does not guarantee that everyone is going to have the same experience.

Which brings me to the next point.

 

Before attempting to apply TransTape for the first time, complete your test strip.

 

Do not skip the test strip!

 

Do not.

 

Skip it.

 

I think that just about covers our summary.

 

Let's go!

 

Step 1: Check In

Some of you are probably rolling your eyes at the check in step.

 

I get it, I roll my eyes at self-care sometimes, too.

 

But that doesn't mean it's not important!

 

When using TransTape, there's a good chance you're handling or facing parts of your body that may or may not bring you discomfort.

 

This isn't the same for everyone, but regardless of how you typically feel about your body, it's always important to take time to check in with your current mood.

 

When we are in less than favorable moods, we tend to react differently to simple and easy-to-fix mistakes.

 

Again, that specific situation may not apply to you, but having a positive mental head space is extremely important when it comes to accomplishing things to the best of your ability.

 

If this is your first time using TransTape, I believe it's even more important to feel good before applying.

 

Why?

 

Because it's a lot more likely that you'll make small, and fixable, mistakes. And that can be super frustrating for anyone!

 

And we don't want anyone to feel frustrated or like taping is impossible.

 

For me, I always have a better application when I'm feeling positive and upbeat about myself.

 

This doesn't mean I'm always in that mood when I apply it, but it does mean that my applications are better when I'm in that head space.

 

That's just my personal experience, but I know I'm not the only one.

 

Which is why step 1 is always, check in with yourself and see how you're feeling.

 

So take some time, ask yourself how you feel and maybe even light some candles.

 

The stress relief kind.

 

Step 2: Gather Supplies!

What you will need:

 

 

Additional recommendations:

 

 

There's not a ton to talk about in this section, but I always find something.

 

So let's discuss the additional recommendations.

 

Rubbing alcohol is suggested to clean the area where you're applying to ensure there aren't any natural oils that could interfere with the adhesive.

 

If you're someone who sweats a lot or just genuinely enjoys the buy 3 get 3 free sale at Bath and Body Works, this is definitely a strong recommendation for you.

As for the removal oil and repairing salve, that's for the removal process!

 

Especially considering the area we're working with here, you definitely want to set yourself up for the easiest removal process possible.

 

TransTape removal oil uses jojoba oil, which is ideal for breaking down the adhesive while also rehydrating your skin and improving elasticity of the skin.

 

As for the salve?

 

It contains Coconut Oil, Shea Butter, Beeswax, Cedarwood Oil, Monarda Oil, and Frankenscience Oil. These all possess healing properties and will help your skin recover on your off days.

 

Next!

 

Step 3: Cut Away!

 

We're getting closer to the fun part!

 

Now it's time to decide which technique you're going to use to tuck.

 

You could use 1 strip or 3 strips.

 

Or as many as you want, up to you!

 

Everyone is different and I would suggest trying each technique at least once to see which one makes you feel the most comfortable and secure.

 

One Strip

If you're using one strip, take your TransTape and roll out about 6 sections.

 

This strip should be long enough to reach from your pubic bone to your butt cheeks.

 

Depending on your comfort levels and anatomy, you might have to adjust as you see fit.

 

After you cut your strip, make sure you round the corners!

 

Rounding the corners reduces the chance of the tape peeling up.

 

I also think it just looks nicer, but that's besides the point.

 

Three Strips

 

Take your roll of TransTape and roll out about 6 sections.

 

Your strips should be long enough to reach from your pubic bone to your butt cheeks.

 

Depending on your comfort levels and anatomy, you might have to adjust as you see fit.

 

You can cut one strip, long ways, into 3 separate pieces or you could cut 3 full width strips.

You could also cut two full width strips and cut one in half. It's up to you! Try different things and see what works best for you and your body.

 

And don't forget to round your corners for the best results!

 

Rounding corners will lower the chances of your tape peeling up.

 

It also looks better, in my humble opinion.

 

Step 4: Apply!

 

Here we go, the moment we've all been waiting for!

 

Application.

 

Real Quick

 

If you haven't done so already, this is the time to wipe down the area you are applying to with rubbing alcohol to remove any excess oil on the skin.

 

No shame in oily skin, it's extremely natural and I'm right there with you.

 

This would also be a good time to give yourself a little buzz cut to avoid a more complicated removal down the line.

 

If you're interested in learning about body hair and TransTape, check out this post here.

 

One Strip

 

Take your prepared strip, remove only about an inch of the backing to create your anchor, and place it on your pubic bone.

 

Take your tissue or gauze and place it on the back of the tape to protect your genitals.

 

The tissue or gauze should be wide and long enough to fully protect your sensitive skin, but there should still be at least an inch of tape at the end left exposed so it can properly adhere.

 

Once you have positioned your tissue or gauze, you can push your testicles into the inner cavity and tuck your shaft back.

 

If you're not a fan of pushing the testicles up, that's fine too! Tuck them back with the shaft and do it that way. It's about comfort and freedom!

 

With one hand, gently push and guide your tape back over the goods.

 

With your other hand, reach from behind and pull the backing off while your first hand guides the tape back.

 

Once you're at the end of your tape and have covered what you want covered, peel the rest of the backing and adhere it to your choice in butt cheek.

 

You can also bring the tape up between your cheeks to the small of your back, but that's entirely up to you and your comfort levels.

 

And that's it for the one strip technique!

 

Three Strips

 

Take one of your 3 prepared strips and remove about an inch of backing paper to create your anchor and handle.

 

Place your anchor on your pubic bone.

 

Take your tissue or gauze and place it so your genitals are completely covered.

The tissue or gauze should be wide and long enough to fully protect your sensitive skin.

 

Once you have positioned your tissue or gauze, you can push your testicles into the inner cavity and tuck your shaft back.

 

If you're not a fan of pushing the testicles up, that's fine too! Tuck them back with the shaft and do it that way. It's about comfort and freedom!

 

With one hand, gently push and guide your tape back over one of the testicles to keep it in place.

 

And with your other hand, reach from behind and pull the backing off while your first hand guides the tape back.

Once you're at the end of your tape and have covered what you want covered, peel the rest of the backing and adhere it to your choice in butt cheek.

 

Next, take one of your other 2 prepared strips and place the anchor.

 

You want there to be some overlap between your strips so the tape can properly adhere.

 

Just like the first strip, gently push and guide your tape back over the testicle to keep it in place and reach from behind and pull the backing off while guiding the tape back.

 

Peel the rest of the backing and adhere it to your choice in butt cheek.

 

Last but not least, take the last prepared strip and place the anchor on your pubic bone.

 

This strip is mostly intended to tuck the shaft back and works best when placed in the center.

 

Like the others, gently push and guide your tape back over the shaft to keep it in place and reach from behind and pull the backing off while guiding the tape back.

 

Peel the rest of the backing and adhere it to your choice in butt cheek.

 

You can also bring the strips up between your cheeks to the small of your back, but that's entirely up to you and your comfort levels.

 

To smooth out the application and provide more security, you can apply one wide strip over the other three.

 

You can also apply a strip over the point where the strips meet on your backside if they all meet in the same general spot.

 

Step 5: Freedom!

How's it feel?

 

Are you feeling affirmed and free?

 

I sure hope so.

 

Hopefully, I've been able to explain tucking well enough that you're able to understand and apply TransTape successfully.

 

But if not, there's more information on the TransTape website, including a live help chat!

 

Information including the free user manual, video courses, this lovely blog and an entire page dedicated to tucking.

Gender affirming products can be life changing and life saving.

 

And let's be real, they're essential!

 

Tucking underwear can be expensive and uncomfortable, and so can gaffes, which is why it's always nice to know you have another option out there.

 

Even if it's only on the days you feel like you have a little extra time.

 

When it comes to taking care of yourself, you should always do your best to make time for it.

 

I know, easier said than done, I know.

 

But I mean it.

 

Love is love, and love is important.

 

You are you, and you are important.

 

Which makes self love extremely important.

 

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 for 10% off your TransTape!

 

https://linktr.ee/jamieakajames