Binding & Tucking Tape
Introduction
Many people have turned to “binding tape” and “tucking tape” as cost effective ways of binding and tucking. We advise caution when applying adhesives and tape to the body as overuse and unsafe removal techniques can easily result in abrasions and damage to the skin.
However, when used and removed according to the manufacturers’ instructions, these tapes can be a great option for anyone looking for an alternative to binders and gaffs.
We’ve put together this handy guide to using tapes safely and easily!
Application
When using a new tape or adhesive on the skin, it is important to do a simple patch test on the skin to ensure the user does not have an allergic reaction or sensitivity to the adhesive.
The binding and tucking tape we stock are latex-free, but several use an acrylic adhesive that is marketed as “hypoallergenic”. However, some users have reported skin irritation when used. Some amount of redness and itching can be expected with all binding and tucking tapes.
We advise applying a small strip of the tape to the body and waiting at least 24 hours to ensure irritation won’t occur when the tape is applied to a larger area of the skin. Be sure to remove this sample tape as advised in the “removal” section of this guide.
Before applying the tape, ensure the skin is clean, oil-free, and consider trimming hair in the area for superior adhesion. If binding, be sure to create a barrier between the nipple and the tape with toilet paper or a piece of gauze and a small piece of the tape. If tucking, use a section of toilet paper, gauze, or other material to protect the head of the penis and urethra from the adhesive tape.
Most tapes stretch significantly to allow the body to move naturally during binding or tucking, so bear this in mind when applying the tape. Some people cut each section of tape to create rounded corners to avoid curling or rolling. Tear the protective paper down the middle, leaving it attached to the tape. Remove the first section and discard. Peel back the second section to create a handle to avoid touching the adhesive part, lessening the adhesive.
Use this illustration as a guide to applying tape for tucking:
Use this illustration as a guide to binding with tape:
Tape Removal
All tapes used for tucking and binding must be removed with care and following the manufacturer’s instructions to avoid tearing and abrasion. Generally, the longer the tape is applied to the skin, the more difficult it is to remove.
Before attempting to remove, thoroughly soak the tape on the body with oil - coconut oil works great! - and wait ten minutes for the oil to absorb. Slowly pull the tape back away from the skin applying more oil as needed. Wash and moisturize the skin once the tape is removed to encourage blood circulation and elasticity.
Safety Concerns
While tape can generally be worn for longer periods of time, especially since it can get wet, there are some things to consider.
When binding the chest with tape, bind loosely enough to not inhibit breathing and movement. Depending on personal comfort and frequency of showers, binding tape can be worn up to a week, however we do recommend giving your skin a break in between, even just an overnight.
When using tape for tucking, prolonged wear can cause issues with fertility. The heat from the body will decrease sperm count over time. Tucking should be no longer than 4-8 hours at a time.
If skin irritation or abrasion occurs, discontinue use immediately and wash any adhesive off the body.