What is a Bikini Coverlay and How Does it Work?

A bikini coverlay is an adhesive fabric that is applied to the bikini area to provide more coverage and a smoother look under swimwear. It adheres directly to the skin, creating a seamless appearance and eliminating lines, wrinkles, and visibility of pubic hair under the swimsuit.

Bikini coverlays are made from lightweight, breathable fabrics like nylon or spandex and coated with a medical-grade adhesive that is gentle on skin. The adhesive allows the coverlay to stick securely to the bikini line while still being removable without pain or irritation.

When applied properly, a bikini coverlay creates a smooth, bulge-free look under your swimsuit for a flawless bikini body. It provides extra coverage for those wanting more modesty, without having to size up on bottoms. The fabric stretches and moves with the body, while staying put even when wet.

How to Apply a Bikini Coverlay

Applying a bikini coverlay is quick and easy:

• Clean and dry the bikini area thoroughly before application
• Remove the coverlay from the plastic liner and position it over the bikini line
• Press it firmly onto the skin in the desired area – pubic mound, sides, etc
• Smooth out any wrinkles or air bubbles for a seamless look
• Make sure the coverlay lays flat and adheres well
• Bikini bottoms can be worn immediately over the coverlay
• To remove, simply peel it off slowly from the edges

Pro tip: For best adhesion, use on clean dry skin and apply a day before wearing to give the adhesive time to adhere firmly. Trimming or file the edges can customize shape.

Benefits of Wearing a Bikini Coverlay

Bikini coverlays offer many benefits that enhance comfort, confidence and the look of swimwear:

Modesty and Coverage

The extra layer covers what bikini bottoms alone may reveal – pubic hair, outlines, and prominence. This allows wearing more revealing bikini cuts modestly.

Smoother, Seamless Look

The tight adhesive fabric creates a smooth, crease-free look under swimwear, eliminating embarrassing lines and visibility of private areas.

Confidence

Knowing you look great underneath can make all the difference in exuding confidence poolside. Coverlays allow wearing any swimsuit without worrying about exposures.

Comfort

Coverlays prevent pubic hair pull and friction against fabrics. The lightweight material is breathable and moves with the body.

Versatility

In addition to bikini swimsuits, coverlays can be worn under leotards, bodysuits, tight dresses and pants, creating a flattering seamless look.

Reusability

High quality coverlays can be washed and reused many times over. No more wasting disposable tape or stickers.

Skin Friendly

Medical grade adhesive is gentle on skin. Many coverlays use hypoallergenic, latex free adhesive to prevent irritation.

Types of Bikini Coverlays

There are a few different styles of bikini coverlays:

Full Bikini Coverlays

As the name suggests, these coverlays are shaped to cover the entire bikini area from front to back. The adhesive fabric stretches from hip bone to hip bone for full coverage. This is the most popular style.

High Leg Bikini Coverlays

Designed like a high leg bikini, these offer coverage mainly on outer hips and sides, leaving the central area mostly uncovered. Great for modesty with cheeky bottoms.

Thong Coverlays

Shaped like a thong, these slim coverlays adhere only on the sides, providing no central coverage in front or back. Made for slingbacks and thongs.

Petite Coverlays

A smaller version of the standard full coverlay, petite sizes are designed for tighter fit and coverage on smaller frames. Ideal for teens and petites.

Plus Size Coverlays

With extra room in the hip, these offer fuller coverage and shaping for curvier figures. Adhesive spans wider to hug contours.

How to Choose the Right Bikini Coverlay

Picking the style, size and shape coverlay for your needs ensures the best fit and look:

Choose by Swimsuit Style

Select the coverlay based on the bikini or swimsuit style you intend to wear over it:

• Full coverage – High waisted, high leg, boyshorts, one piece
• Moderate coverage – Standard bikini bottoms
• Skimpy coverage – Thongs, g-strings, slingbacks

Get the Right Size

Measure your bikini area – waist to hip – and choose the coverlay size that fits you snugly. Getting one too loose means poor adhesion.

Consider Your Body Type

Those with a curvy hourglass shape may prefer full coverage. Petites usually do better with petite sizes. Coverlays with stretch fabric work for most.

Determine Desired Coverage

Do you want just the sides covered or full front/back coverage? This decides whether standard, high cut leg, thong shape works best.

Match Skin Tone

For seamless invisibility, pick coverlays in nude shades that closely match your skin tone. Color options are available too.

Tips for Applying Bikini Coverlays

Follow these tips to apply your coverlay perfectly every time:

• Prepare skin – Exfoliate and moisture the bikini area the day before for smooth adhesion.
• Time it – Apply coverlay at least an hour before wearing so the adhesive can set fully.
• Clean skin – Oil, moisture and hair can reduce stickiness. Clean and dry thoroughly first.
• Slowly peel – Remove coverlay gently by peeling back from sides, not ripping it off. Use oil to remove any residue.
• Avoid creases – Smooth on gradually, pressing from center outward and rub out any creases or bubbles.
• Set the edges – Run your finger along the edges to seal them. File or trim any excess material.
• Heat activation – For stronger hold, use a hairdryer on cool setting to heat and activate the adhesive before smoothing down.

Caring for Your Bikini Coverlay

With proper care, a bikini coverlay can last through multiple wears:

• Hand wash – Use gentle unscented soap and water to wash after each use. Avoid harsh detergents.
• Air dry – Lay flat or hang to dry. Do not wring, iron or machine dry, which can damage adhesive.
• Prevent lint – Store in original packaging or smooth plastic wrap to keep free of lint, dust and debris.
• Apply lightly – When reapplying, rub adhesive lightly to renew stickiness. Do not press down fully to avoid pulling off skin.
• Watch wear – Check edges each time for lifting or reduced stickiness indicating adhesive wearing off. Discard when adhesion fades.
• Avoid oil-based products – Lotions, tanning oils, etc can break down the adhesive over time. Apply coverlay after products absorb fully into skin.

Properly cared for, a bikini coverlay can provide up to 10-15 comfortable wears!

Comparison of Popular Bikini Coverlay Brands

Brand	Price	Style Options	Sizes	Adhesive Type	Reusability	Skin-Friendly
SmootherSkin	$	Full<br>High-Cut<br>Thong	5	Medical Grade	Up to 10 wears	Hypoallergenic
Betty Bangs	$$	Full	7	Medical Grade	Up to 15 wears	Sensitive Skin Formula
Sili Gelle	$$$	Full<br>V-Cut<br>Thong<br>Petite	10	Medical Grade	Up to 15 wears	Hypoallergenic
CoverYourBikini	$$	Full<br>High-Cut<br>Thong<br>Petite<br>Plus	7	Medical Grade	Up to 10 wears	Sensitive Skin Formula
SwimSecrets	$	Full	3	Cosmetic Grade	Up to 5 wears	Standard Adhesive

Frequently Asked Questions about Bikini Coverlays

What is the best coverlay material?

Spandex and nylon provide the most stretch and breathability. Make sure the material is lightweight and flexible for comfort.

How long does it take for a coverlay to adhere fully?

At least 1 hour after application for the adhesive to set optimally. Let it stick overnight for best hold.

Can you go in water/swim with a bikini coverlay on?

Yes, quality coverlays made with medical grade adhesive will stay on even when wet for swimming, beach, pools, etc. Avoid submerging for long periods.

Can coverlays be reused? How many times?

With care, coverlays can be gently removed, washed and reused up to 10-15 times before adhesive wears out. Handle carefully when reapplying.

How do you make a coverlay last longer?

Minimize direct sun exposure, wash gently by hand, store properly, avoid oil-based products before applying, and rub adhesive lightly versus pressing hard to renew stickiness.

Do coverlays prevent pubic hair from showing?

Yes, the tight adhesive fabric provides an extra layer that keeps pubic hair smoother, flatter and less visible under swimwear. It also prevents the dreaded bikini line from showing.

So in summary, bikini coverlays offer a quick, reusable way to look and feel confident poolside. With options for every swimsuit style, proper fit and application creates a sexy, flawless bikini look. Just stick it on, smoothe it out and strut your stuff tan line free!