Things To Know Before Getting Tape-In Hair Extensions

Desiring a quick and versatile extension method to add gorgeous volume and length to your natural hair? Say goodbye to the irritating sew-in weave, and give tape-in hair a try. Tape-in hair extensions are not only comfortable to wear but also versatile in styling. 

Here in this post, we are going to talk about the advantages, the installation and removal process, upkeep, and hairstyles of tape-ins. Make sure you have read this post before wearing tape-ins.

What are tape-in hair extensions?

Let's start at the very basics. Tape-in hair extensions are typically 4 cm wide thin tape wefts. They are typically pre-taped with medical-grade adhesive. This extension method involves sandwiching two extension pieces with a small section of natural hair in between.

Advantages of tape-in hair extensions:

• Quick Installation: Tape-in hair extensions are very easy and quick to install. The dresser just needs to peel the tabs off and sandwich a small strand of natural hair in between. Unlike sew-in weave or cold fusion hair extensions that you have to sit in the salon for a long time, a full head tape-in can be done within 30 minutes. It's an ideal option for busy girls and those who are heady.
• Seamless Results: No one could say no to the stunning natural results that tape-in hair brings. Tape-ins allow you to rock a high ponytail without showing any extensions. It looks very natural and realistic after application. It's undetectable unless you tell someone that you are wearing tape-in hair.
• Numerous Styling Options: With tape-in hair extensions, you can experience almost all the hairstyles you desire. 
• Budget-friendly and Reusable: Compared with sew-in weaves or microlink extensions, tape-in hair is more cost-effective. Tape-ins also require less professional maintenance. Thus it saves more on upkeep. Moreover, tape-in hair extensions are relatively cheaper than other hair weaves. And tape-in hair can be reusable 3-4 times making it a budget-friendly option.
• Suitable For All Occasions: You can wash your hair with tape-in extensions installed. You can wear tape-ins to work out if you have pulled your hair into a ponytail or a bun and worn a band to add extra security. You can enjoy swimming with tape-ins installed if you have put on a swimming cap.

We have made a detailed description of the pros and cons of tape-in hair extensions, click and read more.

Do tape-in extensions damage natural hair?

No. Tape hair extensions may appear irritating to some due to their sticky tabs. Actually, you don't need to worry about this. Cause it is a medical-grade adhesive and rarely breaks. The charm of tape hair extensions is not only the seamless appearance and versatility but also its low risk of scalp discomfort. Tape hair extensions are lightweight, breathable, and damage-free. 

Who are not suitable for tape-ins?

Before you book an appointment with your stylist to rock tape-in hair extensions, make sure you are not in the following categories:

Tape-ins are not suitable for people with damaged hair. 

No matter which extension method you opt for, it will inevitably bring extra tension to your scalp and natural hair. Thus, if your natural hair has been severely damaged, you should give your natural hair a break and take better care of it, rather than attaching hair extensions. Tape-in hair extensions work well on healthy hair.

Tape-ins are not suitable for people with oily hair. 

Since the oils from your scalp might cause the tape to slip. Thus tape-in hair is not suitable for those who have naturally oily hair. Moreover, your shampoo and styling products that are used on tape-in hair should be oil-free and silicone-free to avoid slip-off.

Tape-ins are not a wise choice for people with a dehydrated scalp.

A dry scalp requires more moisture and oil in the hair care routine. But tape-in hair extensions are sensitive to oily products. Thus, if you have a severely dry scalp, tape hair should not be a wise choice. 

How long does tape-in hair last?

Tape-in hair extensions can last for about 6-8 weeks with proper maintenance and installation. If you wash your hair often, the duration will be shorter. The duration depends on your lifestyle and maintenance. Tape hair extensions are ideal for weekend volume boosts.

Tape-in hair extensions that are made of 100% human hair can be reused for up to a year.

Can you wear tape-in extensions yourself?

Yes, you can put on tape-in hair extensions by yourself at home. But we highly recommend letting it be done by a pro.

You've probably seen girls sharing how they wear tape-in hair extensions on TikTok and Youtube. It seems like a very easy job. But we highly recommend that you ask for help from professional stylists to avoid unnecessary breakage, especially if it's the first time you try tape-in hair extensions.

How much will tape-ins cost?

The general cost of tape-in hair extensions starts at $200.

The average cost of tape hair extensions ranges from $100-$300 and varies depending on the amount, length, and hair grade you desire. Plus hairdressing services range from $100-$500 and vary on your area and your stylist.

Things to know before applying tape-in hair extensions:

If you decide to put on tape-in hair extensions at home. Here are some tips and tricks you need to know in advance. Make sure you have read these tips to ensure your tape-in technique is on point.

1. Opt for tape-in hair extensions that are similar in color and texture to your natural hair. With the tape-in method, your natural hair is left out and in between two pieces of tape-in hair extensions. Thus, if you desire a seamless result, you should opt for tape-in extensions that have the same color and pattern as your natural hair. To achieve the illusion of highlights or ombre, you can place 1-2 layers of tape-in wefts with contrasting colors on the bottom. 
2. Opt for tape-in hair extensions that are made of virgin hair or Remy hair. Virgin hair and Remy hair are more durable and natural than synthetic hair or non-Remy hair.
3. The least amount of tape-in hair extensions for a full head is 40 pieces. We highly suggest our customers go for 80 pieces (2 packs) so that they can get voluminous hair and achieve more hairstyles.

How to install tape-in hair extensions?

Items you need to prepare in advance:

Tape-in hair extensions;

A wide-tooth comb;

Shampoo and conditioner;

A soft towel;

A rattail comb;

Hair ties or clips;

Step 1: Wash your hair

Shampoo and condition your hair as you normally would. 

• No matter which type of extension method you go for, ensuring your natural hair and scalp are clean and healthy is the secret to prolonging the duration. 
• Be noticed that never neglect your scalp while washing. 
• We highly suggest opting for hair care products that don't contain sulfates, oils, and alcohol. 
• Last but not least, avoid applying too much heat to your hair. Air dry your hair or blow dry on the lowest heat setting.

Step 2: Section your hair

Use a rattail comb to make a horizontal part above the nape of your neck. Use a clip or hair tie to separate the top section of hair. Leave about 1 inch around the edge of your head, and clip this section off. This is to ensure the tape-ins can be completely hidden even when the hair is pulled back.

• Tape-in extensions will be applied below this part line. 
• The hair we left out on the crown and around the edge is to hide the tape.

Step 3: Apply tape-in hair extensions

Grab a thin section of hair (about 1/8 inch wide, equal to the width of a tape-in) below this part line. Grab and lift this small section up a bit. Peel off the tab on a tape hair extension, and press the tape hair extension to stick on the bottom side of the hair you lift. Be noticed that leave about 1/4-1/2 inches of space between the tape and the scalp. Take another piece of tape-in hair extension and remove the tab. Press down the extension to stick on the upper side of the section of hair. Press the top to stick two tape-in hair extensions together for a few seconds. 

• Ensure the small portion of hair you grab between two pieces of tape-in hair extensions is very thin. This is to ensure the adhesive adheres to every strand. If you put too much hair in between, the tape is more prone to slip off.
• Apply the tape about 1/4-1/2 inch away from the scalp, so that your hair can fall flat and reduce tension on the scalp.

Step 4: Repeat the process

Repeat to add tape-in hair extensions and sandwich your natural hair in between until you finish a full head. Undo your left-out hair and blend it well with the extensions. 

• You will likely apply 5 rows of hair extensions or more, depending on the volume you desire.
• Don't wash or style your tape-in hair extensions after installation for 48 hours.

How to remove and reuse tape-in hair extensions?

Things you should know before diving into the removal process:

1. Your tape-in hair extensions should be removed about 6-8 weeks after being stalled. The time varies depending on how you take care of your tape-ins and the condition of your natural hair. Scalp itch and hair shed are signals to remove tape-in hair extensions.
2. If you take off tape-in extensions at home and don't have glue remover that is designed for removing tape-hair extensions, you can use natural oils as an alternative. Such as natural coconut oil, olive oil, almond oil, baby oil, or hair conditioner. If you opt for a hair conditioner as an alternative, let it sit for a bit longer so that you can remove the tapes smoothly.
3. High-quality tape-in hair extensions can be reused about 3-5 times. Please be gentle and careful during the removal process to avoid unnecessary breakage.

Items you need to prepare in advance:

Tape remover;

Clips or hair ties:

Shampoo and conditioner;

Bonding tape (for reuse of tape-in hair extensions);

A pair of scissors (for reuse of tape-in hair extensions).

Step 1: Expose the tape: 

Pull up your natural hair that covers the tapes and secure it with a clip or a hair tie to expose the tape hair extensions underneath. 

Step 2: Apply tape remover: Generously spread some tape remover on the tape and let it sit for a while. Gently rub it into your scalp with your fingers. Proceed ahead and spread the glue remover on the next track to loosen the glue. Repeat doing so until you have applied glue remover to all rows. Let the glue remover sit for about 20-30 minutes.

Step 3: Remove the tape hair extensions:

Gently wiggle the tape-in hair extensions with your fingers. Once the tape is prone to peeling off, remove your tape-in hair extensions carefully. If you feel it is still sticky to your natural hair and difficult to wiggle, apply more glue remover. Let the remover sit for a few more minutes until you can smoothly pull the tape off. Repeat the process until all the tape-in hair extensions are removed.

Step 4: Shampoo and condition your hair: 

Wash your hair thoroughly to remove residue and condition it thoroughly. Leave the hair conditioner to sit on your hair for about 20-30 minutes. Put on a shower cap or a heating cap so that the water doesn't drip onto your face. Rinse your natural hair with lukewarm water. Towel dry your hair and apply a small amount of natural oil to add moisture. Let your hair air dry or blow it dry on cool if you are in a hurry.

Step 5: Reuse your tape-in hair extensions:

Detangle your tape-in hair extensions and lay them on a table with the sticky side up. Apply some glue remover to the tabs. Let the glue remover sit for a while. Gently rub the remover into the adhesive so that you can remove the adhesive from the tab thoroughly. Shampoo and condition your tape-in hair extensions to remove residue. Lay the extensions on a table and pat dry with a soft towel. Apply bonding tape to the tabs after the extensions are thoroughly dry or before your next installation. Press down the bonding tape for a few seconds so that the tape can stick firmly to the tab.

How to maintain tape-in extensions?

Here are some tips to prolong the duration and lifespan of tape-in hair extensions, and to keep your natural hair in good condition:

Brush:

• Detangle your hair at least twice a day to minimize tangles, especially before the shampoo process and heading to bed.
• Separate the bonds at the roots while brushing the hair.
• Never brush wet tape-in hair extensions. 

Hair care products:

Opt for shampoo and conditioner that don't contain sulfates, alcohol, oil, and silicone. 

Wash: 

• Avoid washing your hair 48 hours after installing the tape.
• Avoid washing your hair too frequently, typically, no more than once a week, unless you sweat a lot or your scalp is very dry or itchy. 
• You can take a shower as you normally would but put a shower cap on if it's not your washing day.
• Dry shampoo can be used as an alternative between two washing days. 
• Before washing your hair, detangle your hair with a wide-tooth comb or your fingers.
• Don't scrub the bonds while washing your hair. Clean the hair roots and scalp by gently pressing and moving a silicone-free, oil-free shampoo onto your scalp.
• Never apply hair conditioner or oil to the bondings.

Dry:

• Let your hair air dry or blow it dry on the lowest heat setting if you are in a hurry.
• Ensure your tape-in hair extensions are completely dry before heading to bed. Never sleep with wet tape-in hair extensions or they might slip off.
• Section the hair into rows while blow drying the hair.

Heat: 

• Avoid applying too much heat to your hair extensions. If it is necessary to apply heat to your hair extensions, spray some heat protection in advance. 
• You need to be careful to keep high temperatures away from the roots where the tape-in hair extensions are attached.

Sleep: 

• Detangle your hair with a wide-tooth comb or your fingers before heading to bed.
• Braid the hair into a loose plait and wrap the hair up with a satin scarf to minimize tangles and shed. 

Tape-ins vs. clip-ins vs. sew-in weaves, how to choose?

Clip-in hair extensions come with small sensitive clips, which can be installed and removed within a few minutes. It's a temporary and safe method to lengthen and volumize hair.

A sew-in weave involves braiding the natural hair into cornrows and sewing the hair extensions into them with thread and needle. It's also a relatively long-term and safe way to create fuller, longer hair.

Tape-ins, clip-ins, and sew-in weaves are all popular extension methods. But they do have some differences. 

Time consumption for installation:

Sew-in weaves > tape-in extensions > clip-in hair extensions

Since sew-in hair must be braided into cornrows, it takes longer to install and remove than tape-ins or clip-ins. Thus, if you desire a quick hair length boost, opt for tape hair extensions or clip-in hair extensions.

Duration:

Sew-in hair > tape-in hair > clip-in hair

You have to take off the clip-in hair extensions before heading to bed or washing your hair, or the clips might tangle your hair and lead to discomfort. If you desire an extension method that can last a bit longer, sew-in weaves or tape-in hair extensions are better choices for you. Typically, with proper installation and maintenance, sew-in weaves can stay on one's head for about 6-8 weeks, while tape-in hair can last on average 6 weeks.

Breathability/ Convenience to access the scalp: 

Tape-in hair extensions > clip-in hair extensions > Sew-in hair extensions

With sew-in hair extensions, your natural hair has to be braided into braids and covered under hair weaves or a wig cap. With tape-in hair, your natural hair is exposed, which allows your hair care routine to be easier. Thus, if you desire an extension method that allows you to access the scalp easily, or you desire premium breathability, then opt for tape-in hair extensions.

Maintenance: 

Tape-in hair extensions, sew-in hair weaves > Clip-in hair extensions

Because clip-in hair extensions are a very temporary option, they should not be worn overnight. Clip-ins require almost no maintenance. Sew-in hair and tape-in hair do require extra upkeep which isn't very difficult and can be done at home.

Styling options:

Tape-in hair, sew-in hair > clip-in hair

Many black women prefer tape-ins for the versatility of styling. Tape-in hair extensions allow for half-up, ponytail, bun, braid, and various hairstyles.

Above mentioned are the major differences between tape-in hair extensions, clip-in hair extensions, and sew-in weaves. If you still have doubts about which extension method you should go for, welcome to chat with our sales consultants online. 

Or you can also go through our previous posts: Tape-in Vs. Clip-in Extensions, Tape-in Vs. Sew-in Hair.

Chic & easy hairstyles for tape-in hair

Tape-in hair extensions are versatile for styling. It allows you to rock almost any hairstyle you desire. The only principle that needs to be followed while styling hair with tape-ins installed is to avoid applying too much heat and harsh styling products to your hair. There are numerous hairstyles that you can easily achieve with tape-ins on, such as:

Sleek ponytail;

Top knot;

Half up half down;

Long braids;

Two mini buns, etc.

Elfin Hair provides a variety of hair textures to match your natural hair texture. Moreover, our tape-in hair extensions allow you to blow them out, dye, straighten, or perm them to match and mimic your natural hair.

Conclusion:

Different from sew-in weaves, tape-in hair extensions are quick to install. Compared with clip-in extensions, tape-ins are more versatile in styling. Women who don't have voluminous and long hair will benefit a lot from these tape hair extensions. If you haven't tried tape-in hair before, it's worth giving it a try. We are sure that it will never let you down.

We hope you enjoy this post. If you still have any doubts about tape-in hair extensions, feel free to reach our sales consultants online.

Related Posts:

Tape-in Vs. Sew-in Hair, Which One Is Right For You?

Tape-in Vs. Clip-in Extensions

Microlinks Vs. Tape-ins

Tape In Hair Extensions Frequently Asked Questions