Understanding Lash Tape: Which Type to Use and When

If you’ve ever stood in front of your lash cart wondering “Do I grab foam tape or Transpore tape for this client?” — you’re not alone.

Lash tape is one of the most underrated tools in a lash artist’s kit. It helps you isolate lashes, protect the skin, lift lids, and work more efficiently. But not all tape is created equal — and using the wrong type can affect your comfort, speed, and even your client’s experience.

Let’s break down the most common lash tapes, what makes them different, and when to use each one.

✂️ 1. Foam Tape – Soft & Supportive

Best For: Sensitive skin, securing bottom lashes, extra comfort

Foam tape is thick, pillowy, and super gentle. It’s often used as an alternative to under-eye pads or placed over them for extra hold. It molds nicely to the curves of the face and creates a barrier between the gel pad and skin, reducing irritation.

Why Lash Artists Love It:

• Cushiony feel = great client comfort

• Easy to cut and shape

• Helps with twitchy eyes or watery clients

🧼 Pro Tip: Always de-tack foam tape slightly before applying to avoid pulling skin on removal.

🩹 2. Transpore Tape – Sticky & Secure

Best For: Taping back lashes, lifting lids, strong hold on oily skin

Transpore tape is a semi-transparent medical-grade tape known for its durability and hold. It has small perforations that make it breathable, but don’t let that fool you — this tape sticks. It’s especially useful for lash artists who need a reliable grip for taping back layers or lifting the lid.

Why Lash Artists Love It:

• Strong hold that stays in place

• Ideal for oily skin or humid conditions

• Great for taping up lids or securing inner corners

🧲 Pro Tip: Always de-tack on the back of your hand before applying to avoid pulling delicate under-eye skin.

⚠️ Note: Transpore tape is not the best choice for super sensitive clients — it's better suited for artists who want firm control during the set.

🟢 3. Silicone or Gel Tape – Flexible & Reusable

Best For: Taping up lids, dry or oily skin, multiple uses

Silicone-based tapes are smooth, flexible, and tend to stay put even when skin gets oily or damp. Some lash artists even reuse sections during the same set for efficiency.

Why Lash Artists Love It:

• Doesn’t pull or irritate skin

• Perfect for taping over extensions without damage

• Some types are translucent — great for visibility

🧊 Pro Tip: Chill gel tape in a skincare fridge for extra client comfort during hot days.

🎯 So Which One Should You Use?

Tape Type	Best Use	Sensitivity Level	Pro Feature
Foam Tape	Lower lashes, comfort	Very gentle	Cushioned, skin-friendly
Transpore Tape	Lid lift, oily skin	Moderate to firm hold	Stays in place, breathable
Gel/Silicone Tape	Re-taping, lash lifting	Very gentle	Smooth, flexible, reusable

You might even use more than one type during a single service — for example, foam under the eye + Transpore to tape back layers = a clean, efficient lash set.

💬 Final Thoughts from a Lash Pro

Don’t underestimate the power of the right tape. It makes your lash sets cleaner, your isolation faster, and your client’s experience way more comfortable.

Master your tape game, and you’ll notice the difference immediately.