FTM Packer Adhesive: Getting Started
Looking for the right FTM packer adhesive or FTM prosthetic adhesive—and want it to actually stay on all day? This guide breaks down what works, what to avoid, and how to get a secure, natural feel without skin irritation.
8-12 Hours
Typical wear time with proper prep
Prep is Key
Clean + dry skin beats "stronger glue"
Sheets for Beginners
Easy, fast, less mess
Never use craft glue, super glue, or non-medical adhesives on skin. Only use medical-grade products meant for skin contact. Always patch test every new adhesive.
Why Use Adhesive for Packing?
For many trans men, using packer adhesive creates the most natural, secure, and dysphoria-relieving experience. While harnesses and packing underwear are great options, adhesives offer unique benefits.
🎯 Natural Positioning
Precise placement exactly where you want it, mimicking natural anatomy.
👖 Wear Any Clothing
No bulky harnesses or special underwear needed—wear whatever you want.
🏊 Swimming Ready
Quality adhesives stay secure even in water, perfect for pool or beach days.
💪 Active Lifestyle
Move freely during sports, gym, or daily activities without worry.
🔒 All-Day Security
Quality adhesives hold strong for 8-12+ hours without shifting.
😌 Dysphoria Relief
Feeling your packer as part of your body significantly reduces dysphoria.
Adhesives are ideal for soft packers and STP devices. For heavier Pack & Play models, use a harness or packing underwear for additional support, as adhesive alone may shift during active use.
Types of FTM Prosthetic Adhesive
Not all adhesives are created equal. Understanding the different types will help you choose the right one for your needs and skin type.
📋 Self-Adhesive Sheets
Pre-cut adhesive sheets that attach to your packer's tab. Easy to use and reusable for multiple applications.
Best for: Beginners, daily packing, low mess
Skill level: Beginner
🖌️ Liquid Adhesive (Brush-On)
Medical-grade liquid glue applied with a brush. Offers the strongest bond and most customizable application.
Best for: Maximum hold, experienced users
Skill level: Intermediate
💧 Silicone-Based Adhesive
Specially formulated to bond silicone prosthetics to skin. Performs well in sweat, heat, and water.
Best for: Gym, summer, swimming
Skill level: Intermediate
🌬️ Medical Adhesive Spray
Easy-to-apply spray format that provides even coverage. Quick application but less precise than brush-on.
Best for: Quick routine, even coverage
Skill level: Beginner
Never use regular craft glue, super glue, or non-medical adhesives on your skin. These can cause serious irritation, chemical burns, or allergic reactions. Only use products specifically designed for skin contact.
Best FTM Packer Adhesives Reviewed
After extensive research and community feedback, these are the top adhesives for FTM packing. Each has been tested for safety, hold strength, and skin compatibility.
👑 EDITOR'S CHOICE
GenderCat Self-Adhesive Sheets
The gold standard for FTM packing adhesives. These sheets turn any packer into a self-adhesive prosthetic—no daily glue application needed. If you've searched "gendercat adhesive" or "gender cat adhesive", this is what you're looking for.
✅ Pros: Extremely easy, reusable, strong grip, pain-free removal, skin-safe
⚠️ Cons: Higher upfront cost, best for soft packers only
🎬 HOLLYWOOD TESTED
Pros-Aide Adhesive (The Original)
Medical-grade, water-based adhesive used in Hollywood film productions for prosthetic application. Proven reliability, works perfectly even for sensitive skin.
✅ Pros: Medical-grade, excellent for sensitive skin, strong bond, water-based cleanup
⚠️ Cons: Requires brush application, learning curve, separate remover needed
💪 EXTRA STRONG
BT-460 Secure Medical Adhesive
Extra strong, high viscosity, pressure-sensitive silicone adhesive. If you've searched "bt-460 secure medical adhesive", this is the sweat-resistant option people look for.
✅ Pros: Extra strong, silicone-based, moisture/sweat resistant, temperature stable
⚠️ Cons: Requires specific solvent for removal, higher price, may be too strong for beginners
🌬️ EASY SPRAY
Hollister Adapt Medical Adhesive Spray
The easiest application method—just spray and attach. Medical-grade silicone composition, latex-free, and CFC-free.
✅ Pros: Easiest application, even coverage, latex-free, quick-drying
⚠️ Cons: Less precise, aerosol not travel-friendly, may use more product
Adhesives and removers are sold separately—they are NOT included when purchasing an Emisil packer. Order your preferred adhesive before your packer arrives!
Adhesive Comparison
Quick comparison to help you choose the right packer adhesive for your needs:
🥇 GenderCat Sheets
Type: Self-Adhesive | Hold: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Ease: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Best for: Beginners & Daily
🥈 Pros-Aide
Type: Liquid (Brush) | Hold: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Ease: ⭐⭐⭐ | Best for: Sensitive Skin
🥉 BT-460
Type: Silicone Liquid | Hold: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Ease: ⭐⭐⭐ | Best for: Active Lifestyle
Hollister Spray
Type: Spray | Hold: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Ease: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Best for: Quick Application
How to Apply FTM Prosthetic Adhesive
Proper application is key to all-day security and comfort. Follow these steps for the best results with your adhesive packer FTM setup:
Step 1: Prepare Your Skin
- Shave or trim hair where the tab will sit (hair = weaker bond)
- Wash with gentle soap and water, then dry completely
- Do NOT apply lotion, oils, or sunscreen where you plan to attach
Step 2: Apply the Adhesive
- Sheets: Apply sheet to tab, then press onto clean, dry skin
- Liquid: Apply thin layer to tab, wait until tacky (not wet)
- Silicone: Follow product timing; many work best after a short "dry" period
- Spray: Use light, even coat; let it become tacky before attaching
Step 3: Position Your Packer
- Position carefully—repositioning weakens the bond
- Press firmly for 30-60 seconds
- Wait 2-5 minutes before dressing for best cure
Before your first full-day wear, do a test application for 2-3 hours. This helps you practice the technique and ensures no skin sensitivity.
How to Remove Packer Adhesive Safely
Never rip or pull the packer off—this can irritate skin and damage your prosthetic. Removal should feel controlled, not painful.
Safe Removal Routine
- Apply Remover: Use the recommended adhesive remover around the edges. Let it sit for 30 seconds.
- Work Under Edges: Using a cotton swab soaked in remover, gently work under the edges of the tab.
- Lift Gently: If any areas resist, apply more remover—don't pull harder.
- Clean Up: Wash skin and tab with soap and water. Apply moisturizer to the skin.
If you notice redness, irritation, rash, or unusual reaction after removal, stop using that adhesive immediately. Give your skin time to heal before trying an alternative product.
For maintenance, keep an Emisil Repair Kit handy.
Adhesive STP FTM Tips
Using adhesive with an STP device adds extra requirements for hygiene and secure placement to prevent leaks.
🧼 Clean & Dry
Attach on clean, dry skin and give adhesive time to set before first use.
⚠️ Avoid Sensitive Areas
Keep adhesives/removers away from sensitive mucosal areas.
🏊 After Water
After swimming/showering, clean and dry fully before reattaching.
🩲 Backup Support
For extra security, use adhesive + snug packing underwear together.
Pro Tips & Troubleshooting
Common Reasons Your Packer Won't Stick
- Skin still has oil/lotion residue (even "invisible" residue breaks bonds)
- Too much adhesive (thick layer stays gummy)
- Not waiting for tack (liquid needs that contact-cement moment)
- Hair under the tab area
- Repositioning after contact
Quick Fixes That Work
- Re-do prep: wash, dry, and keep the area oil-free
- Use thin layers; let it get tacky; press longer
- Switch to silicone-based adhesive in summer/gym days
- Use packing underwear as backup (especially with heavier models)
✅ DO
- Shave the attachment area
- Clean and dry skin completely
- Wait for adhesive to become tacky
- Press firmly for 30-60 seconds
- Use recommended remover
- Patch test new adhesives
❌ DON'T
- Use non-medical adhesives
- Apply to wet or oily skin
- Reposition once attached
- Pull or rip the packer off
- Use on irritated/broken skin
- Apply too much adhesive
In hot weather, many people do better with sweat-resistant silicone adhesives and a "backup layer" (packing underwear) to stop edge-lift during movement.
Safety & Skin Care
Your skin health is important. Follow these guidelines to enjoy FTM packer adhesive safely:
🧴 Skin Care Routine
- Before: Clean, dry, oil-free skin is essential
- After: Apply gentle moisturizer to the attachment area
- Rest days: Give your skin occasional breaks from adhesive
- Exfoliate: Gentle exfoliation 1-2x per week helps prevent buildup
Signs of Adhesive Sensitivity
Redness
Mild redness after removal is normal, but persistent redness is a warning sign.
Itching
Itching during wear or after removal indicates possible sensitivity.
Rash/Bumps
Development of rash or bumps means stop use immediately.
Skin Damage
Any blistering or skin damage requires medical attention.
Before using any new adhesive, do a patch test on a small area of skin (like your inner arm) and wait 24 hours. This helps identify any sensitivity before applying to the genital area.
Avoid sleeping with adhesive-attached packers. Extended friction + sweat increases irritation risk and can stress the tab.
Alternatives to Adhesive
Adhesive isn't the only solution. If your skin is sensitive, or you want fast on/off, consider these options:
🩲 Packing Underwear
Specially designed underwear with a pocket or pouch to hold your packer securely in place.
🎗️ Harnesses & Straps
Adjustable harnesses that secure your packer. Best for erect models and active activities.
For maximum security and confidence, many trans men use adhesive + packing underwear together. The adhesive provides natural positioning while the underwear adds backup security. This is especially recommended for active days or important events.
🎯 Key Takeaways
Sheets for Beginners
Self-adhesive sheets are easiest to start with.
Prep is Everything
Clean, dry, oil-free skin beats "stronger glue."
Combine Methods
Adhesive + underwear = maximum security.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can I wear my packer with adhesive?
Most quality adhesives allow 8-12+ hours of wear. However, listen to your body—if you feel discomfort or the bond loosens, it's time to remove. Avoid wearing adhesive-attached packers while sleeping.
Can I shower or swim with adhesive?
It depends on the adhesive. Silicone-based adhesives (like BT-460) are water-resistant and suitable for swimming. Water-based adhesives may weaken with prolonged water exposure. Quick showers are usually fine with most adhesives.
Is adhesive safe for sensitive skin?
Medical-grade adhesives like Pros-Aide are designed for sensitive skin. However, everyone's skin is different. Always do a patch test first, and if you experience irritation, try a different formula or consider adhesive-free alternatives.
Can I use adhesive with erect/Pack & Play models?
We don't recommend using adhesive alone for erect models due to their weight. The adhesive may not provide enough stability, especially during active use. Use a harness or packing underwear for erect models, with adhesive as optional additional support.
How do I know when to reapply adhesive?
Reapply when you notice the bond loosening, shifting, or after removing and reattaching. For self-adhesive sheets, replace when they no longer stick effectively. Liquid adhesives need fresh application each time.
Does adhesive damage my packer?
Medical-grade adhesives won't damage silicone packers when used correctly. Always clean adhesive residue from your packer after removal. Using the proper remover helps maintain your packer's longevity.
Where can I find Emisil adhesive resources?
Start with Tab & Adhesion guide, then keep a care tool ready like the Emisil Repair Kit.
Remember: Finding the right adhesive is a personal journey. What works perfectly for one person may not work for another. Don't be afraid to try different products until you find your perfect match. The goal is all-day comfort and confidence! 🏳️⚧️
Ready to Pack with Confidence?
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