As someone who has always struggled with fine, thin hair, I understand the desire to have luscious locks that make you feel confident and beautiful. Over the years, I've tried countless hair products and styling techniques, but nothing has given me the fullness and length I've been looking for quite like tape in extensions. In this article, I'll be sharing everything you need to know about professional tape in extensions, including their benefits, how they work, how to apply and maintain them, and more.
Introduction to Tape Hair Extensions
Tape in extensions are a popular semi-permanent hair extension method that involves attaching wefts of hair to small sections of your natural hair using a special adhesive tape. Unlike clip-in extensions, which you can easily remove and reapply on your own, tape in extensions are designed to stay in place for several weeks at a time, making them a great option for anyone looking for a longer-term solution to thin or short hair.
Benefits of Tape Hair Extensions
One of the biggest benefits of tape in extensions is that they look and feel incredibly natural. Because the wefts are attached to small sections of your natural hair, they blend seamlessly with your own hair and are virtually undetectable. Additionally, tape in extensions are a low-maintenance option that can save you time and hassle in your daily hair routine. Unlike other types of extensions, you don't need to remove them every night before bed, and you can style them just like you would your natural hair.
Types of Tape Hair Extensions
There are several types of tape in extensions available on the market, each with its own unique benefits and drawbacks. The most popular types are human hair extensions and synthetic hair extensions. Human hair extensions are made from real human hair and are the most natural-looking option, but they can also be more expensive. Synthetic hair extensions are a more affordable option that can still look great, but they don't last as long and can't be styled with heat.
Preparing for Tape Hair Extensions
Before getting tape in extensions, it's important to prepare your hair to ensure the best possible outcome. This includes washing and conditioning your hair well in advance of your appointment, avoiding using any heavy styling products or heat tools in the days leading up to your appointment, and avoiding any chemical treatments like colouring or relaxing. Your stylist may also recommend a trim to ensure your natural hair is healthy and ready to support the weight of the extensions.
Choosing the Right Colour and Length
Choosing the right colour and length of your tape in extensions is crucial to achieving a natural-looking result. When choosing a colour, try to match the colour of the extensions as closely as possible to your natural hair. If you're unsure what shade to choose, bring in a photo of yourself with your hair down and in natural light to help your stylist match the colour. When choosing a length, keep in mind that longer extensions will be heavier and require more maintenance, so choose a length that suits your lifestyle and styling preferences.
How Tape Hair Extensions Are Applied
Applying tape in extensions should always be done by a professional stylist to ensure the best possible outcome. To apply tape in extensions, your stylist will first section off your hair, then sandwich small sections of your natural hair between two wefts of extension hair using the tape. The process is repeated until all of the wefts are securely in place, and the result is a natural-looking and voluminous head of hair. The process typically takes a few hours to complete, but the result is worth it.
Maintaining Tape Hair Extensions
Maintaining tape in extensions is relatively easy, but there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure they last as long as possible. First, avoid washing your hair for at least 48 hours after getting the extensions to give the tape time to fully adhere. When you do wash your hair, use a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner and avoid applying any heavy styling products to the roots. Brush your hair regularly with a soft-bristle brush to avoid tangling, and avoid using heat tools on the tape tabs to prevent them from slipping.
Removing Tape Hair Extensions
Removing tape in extensions should always be done by a professional stylist to avoid damaging your natural hair. To remove tape in extensions, your stylist will use a special adhesive remover to dissolve the tape, then gently pull the extensions out of your hair. It's important not to try to remove the extensions yourself, as this can cause damage to your natural hair.
Frequently Asked Questions about Tape Hair Extensions
Q: How long do tape in extensions last?
A: Tape in extensions typically last between 6-8 weeks before they need to be removed and reapplied.
Q: Can I style my hair with heat tools when wearing tape hair extensions?
A: Yes, you can style your hair with heat tools when wearing tape in extensions, but be sure to avoid the tape tabs to prevent them from slipping.
Q: Can I swim or exercise with tape in extensions?
A: Yes, you can swim and exercise with tape in extensions, but be sure to tie your hair back and avoid getting the tape tabs wet for at least 48 hours after getting the extensions.
Conclusion
If you're looking for a natural-looking and low-maintenance solution to thin or short hair, tape hair extensions may be the perfect option for you. With the right preparation, application, and maintenance, tape in extensions can give you the fullness and length you've always dreamed of. Be sure to consult with a professional stylist who specialises in tape in extensions to ensure the best possible outcome.
Thank you for reading, and good luck on your hair extension journey!