With summer right around the corner, we’re all getting ready to channel some of Emrata’s red carpet looks and show a bit more skin when we step outside. However, many of the sexiest summer styles (like flossing!) simply don’t look great with a bra. And while plenty of people can rock the braless look, some of us need a bit of extra support–or even just a bit of cleavage to bring the look to the next level. When this is the case for you, look no further than boob tape.
Using boob tape is a fantastic way to create a lifted, supported look without worrying about a silly old bra ruining your outfit (and, let’s be honest, your comfort). If you’re a bit intimidated by the idea of using boob tape, have no fear. We’re here to give you some of the top tips to keep in mind. Below, you’ll find virtually everything you need to know about how to use boob tape, from choosing the right kind to applying it to removing it and more.
Choosing the Right Boob Tape
Before you get started on applying your boob tape, the first step is to choose the best one for you and your girls. There are several varieties out there, with pros, cons, and varying degrees of strength. Let’s take a look at a few options below.
Cloth boob tape
In many cases, going with a good cloth adhesive boob tape is going to be your best option. This variety is comfortable, breathable, safe and pain-free for even the most sensitive skin, and highly versatile, as you’re able to position it in whichever way works best for your outfit (and your boobs).
Gaffer tape
If you were to take Kim Kardashian’s advice (which, to be honest, we wouldn’t do in many cases—even if she has been known to rock the low-cut look), you may opt for gaffer tape to lift your boobs. Kim wrote a whole blog post–which has since been deleted–about using gaffer tape on her own boobs. And while this tape is certainly strong enough to keep your boobs where you want them, it loses points in our book due to the fact that it's highly restrictive, irritating, and not breathable.
Sports tape
If you anticipate working up a sweat in your outfit or if you’re looking for an especially gentle option, cotton sports tape is one great way to go. Unlike gaffer tape, it’s meant to be used on your skin, so it’s painless, breathable, and sweat-resistant. However, there’s a slight tradeoff: due to the gentle nature of this tape, it’s not quite as strong as other options, so it may not be ideal for those who need a lot of support.
Consider adhesive strength
In addition to choosing the best type of boob tape for you, it’s also important to consider the strength. Many brands come in varying degrees of strength. While a standard strength may work just fine for most women (after all, it’s made to be strong enough to keep boobs lifted–that's its job!), those with oily skin or extremely heavy breasts might want to consider going with extra-strength options.
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Preparing for Boob Tape Application
First thing’s first: Before you start applying your boob tape, proper preparation is crucial.
For starters, it’s important to make sure boob tape is safe to use on your skin by doing a patch test, just as you would with a new skincare product. Apply a small bit of tape to your chest and pay attention to any potential irritation or reactions.
After you’ve ensured the boop tape you’ve chosen is a good fit, the next step is to prep your chest. This is a similar process to skincare and makeup prep, too: you essentially just want to make sure that the area to which you’re applying your tape is clean and dry. That means your chest should be free of any oils, moisturizers,lotions, etc. in order to assure the tape sticks properly to your skin. In addition to good old soap and water, alcohol wipes will help get the job done.
Finally, consider applying pasties or even a small cotton pad (or, heck, even a small patch of toilet paper) over your nipples before you begin applying the tape. While this isn’t necessary, it can ensure an extra-painless removal process.
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Applying Boob Tape
Ultimately, the best method for applying boob tape will depend on the shape of the shirt you’re wearing. The key is to figure out how to get the support you need while keeping the tape as hidden as possible. That being said, there’s not really one right way to get the job done, and it can be a bit of an intuitive process as you learn with some trial and error.
When it comes to standard shapes, though, there are a few key tips you can follow. We’ll break a few of the most common methods down below.
Low-cut tops
Plunging necklines are all the rage right now–but they can be extremely difficult to make work in the boob department. If you want to rock the braless trend while still ensuring you’ve got some support, boob tape can help. Simply hold your boobs where you want them to be and apply a strip of tape horizontally, about where your bra band would be. It should reach from your underarm to a bit past your nipple. From there, add more strips like this, working your way up your boobs. Finish it all off with some vertical-running strips. that reach from the base of your boob to your shoulder. For extra cleavage, you can push your boobs together while you apply these vertical strips.
Strapless tops
Let’s be real: strapless bras are beautiful in theory. In practice? They only set us up for disappointment. Luckily, that’s where boob tape comes in. With boob tape, you can rock all those strapless dresses and tops with ease.
Here’s how it's done: Go with a bandeau method using strips of boob tape that run horizontally from one side of your breasts to the other–or armpit to armpit. Layer these strips from bottom to top, starting at the base of your breasts. Want some extra va-va-voom? Simply lift your boobs up and in, securing them there as you add the tape.
Triangle-shaped tops and cut-outs
When things get a little funkier–let’s say trendy cutouts are involved or you’re dealing with a triangle or halter top–have no fear. Boob tape can still be your best friend. In these situations, the best course of action is typically to build two separate cups out of the tape. To start by positioning your boobs where you want them, as usual. Then, you can achieve the cup effect by applying small strips of tape horizontally from bottom to top of each breast. You know the drill if you want some cleavage: upward and inward!
Keeping tape invisible
If you frequently run into the issue of a bit of tape peeking out from your tops, there are a few simple steps you can take to keep the problem at bay.
For starters, you may want to mark the outline of your top with eyeliner or a similar skin-friendly utensil so that you know exactly which bounds to keep the tape within as you apply it. Furthermore, scissors can always solve the issue: if you find not all of the tape is concealed by your top once you’ve applied it, simply snip away any bits of tape that you don’t want to be visible. Voila!
Removing Boob Tape
This last bit can be intimidating if you’re not used to using boob tape. After all, we’re all familiar with the feeling of ripping off a band-aid (or worse, a waxing strip). But rest assured, boob tape is a completely different story. Since it’s made for your skin, the removal process should be painless.
If, for some reason, you do experience some difficulty or pain while removing the tape, a bit of body oil should do the trick and help you get the job done with minimal discomfort.
The bottom line
When a bra isn’t the vibe but going braless just won’t cut it, boob tape can be your saving grace. Ultimately, it’s a great tool that you’ll likely find yourself returning to again and again. However, it does take a bit of trial and error to get the application process down. But with a bit of practice, we think you’ll be a pro in no time–and it’ll be well worth it.
