3. Boob tape (a.k.a. nipple tape or breast tape) is a stretchy adhesive designed to lift and hold your breasts in place without the use of a traditional bra, says Cartledge. “It can also be used to cover your nipples in the event that you’re wearing something see-through, sheer, or very fitted.”
- What it’s good for: Offers lift and support for larger busts; works great with very low-cut tops.
- Why we like it: It’s extremely versatile, as you can cut and customize it into a variety of styles. It’s also supportive for larger busts, which nipple covers really aren’t, and can be used to cover your nips under fitted clothes.
- Worth considering: The tape isn’t reusable, isn’t the most beginner-friendly, and can be challenging to remove.
4. Adhesive strapless bras (a.k.a. stick-on bras) adhere to your breast, lifting, supporting, and providing more coverage than pasties or tape ever could. Most sticky bras are backless, too.
- What it’s good for: Backless dresses, one-shoulder tops.
- Why we like them: Stick-on bras are reusable, easy to clean, and—importantly—give you more shape and definition without a war against gravity.
- Worth considering: Warmer weather and excessive sweating can lead to the adhesive being less effective over time.
How to shop for nipple covers
Factors to consider when figuring out what nipple cover is best for you:
Reusability: Plan on wearing these repeatedly? Reusable nipple covers are a no-brainer. “They’re more cost effective and a great addition to a lingerie wardrobe,” says Jen Summers, bra-fit expert and co-owner of lingerie shop Story Essentials. “They are easy to clean, easy to wear, and work with a variety of outfit options (and even under bras and bralettes) when you want a nice smooth no-show look.” Of course, if you just need some one-and-done coverage, disposable pasties like the Commando Low Beams get the job done.
Size and color: Choose a nipple cover color that blends in with the skin surrounding your areola and nipple, so the contrast doesn’t show through your clothes. Also consider the diameter of the cover. “You don’t want one that is too large, which could change the shape of the breast, or one that is too small that will not provide the proper effect,” Summers says.
Your outfit and overall look: Some nipple cover styles are more seamless in their fit across the areola—and won’t show through your thinner outfits. Some give your boobs more lift and perkiness, which might be your preferred aesthetic. We’ve broken down each type of cover and what situations they’re best for in the section above.
Do nipple covers work for big boobs?
TBH—not really. Nipple covers will give you modesty, but support? Not so much. Turn to breast tape and stick-on bras instead. “If needed, you can lift your boobs with a flesh-colored breast tape and then pop on a nipple cover for modesty,” says Jené Luciani Sena, bra expert and author of The Bra Book and Get It!, who points to Hollywood Fashion Secrets Silicone Coverups Set, which includes both. Summers also recommends breast tape for bigger boobs, since you can layer it in strips over your shoulders to pull up your bust.
How do you size yourself for nipple covers?
Grab a ruler, friend, and measure the diameter of your nipple (including the areola). Most nipple covers fall in the two- to four-inch ballpark in diameter. You’ll likely want to choose a cover that’s a little larger than your nipple so it can press the nipple down and create a seamless look.
How many times can you wear nipple covers?
It depends on the type of cover. Many silicone nipple covers and adhesive bras are designed to be reused until their stickiness wears off—which can be anywhere from 10 to 50 times. Breast tape and adhesive pasties, however, are usually only one-time use and disposable.
How do you put on nipple covers?
Remove the backing and press it across the nipple. Importantly: Don’t wear any lotion or oils on your skin, which break down the adhesion of the cover.
How do you take off nipple covers?
Do not just rip a nipple cover off your skin. Ow!! To remove a reusable silicone nipple cover, you can usually gently peel the cover off your skin. If it’s a little stubborn, press a warm, damp cloth over the skin to soften the adhesion—or try an oil like coconut oil or baby oil to break down the stickiness. For adhesive nipple pasties and boob tape, it can help to soak them in a lightweight oil before peeling off. It never hurts to read your nipple covers’ included directions for removal.
How do you wash nipple covers?
Reusable silicone nipple covers are pretty easy breezy to clean. Most just need a rinse with water (and sometimes mild soap), air drying time, and then proper storage to reactivate the adhesion on the back.
Why you should trust us
As Glamour shopping editors and writers, we’ve tried on many nipple covers and bras from best-selling brands to bring you the best nipple covers and pasties for various occasions and needs. We’ve also worked with the below bra-fit experts to shop for and choose the right nipple covers for you.
Read the full article here
