Everything You Need to Know About Tape-In Extensions
In the past few years, my most-asked hair question was always, "Do you wear extensions?" and for the longest time, my answer was no!
My hair type has always been thick and I've always worn my hair long, so naturally, people would assume that I had some help.
Since putting in extensions, I've received lots of questions regarding the process and procedure, costs, type, upkeep, etc. so I'm breaking down everything you need to know about tape-in extensions today. I'll also give you a quick rundown on the other types of extensions out there, because I know a common first question when thinking about extensions is, "which type do I get?".
Are there any other extension brands you recommend?
we recommendations are Hairtalk, Hot Heads, JZ styles and Bellami. Ultimately, if your extensionist knows what they're doing, they'll most likely have a brand they use and love, which will work with your hair!
Do tape-in extensions ruin your hair?
It's important to remember that we all have different hair types; what might work for mine, may not work for yours. That being said, we prefers Tape-In extensions because they are the safest for your hair and do not damage it.
Tape-Ins are made with waterproof, medical grade adhesive which is safe to wash, heat style, etc. The actual hair goes through a process where its deep cleaned, colored and treated before its used as an extension. Moreover, the extensions are virtually weightless. Often times other extension methods create a weight on your natural hair follicle which can damage it that way. With Tape-Ins, the small piece of hair that's sandwiched between the two extensions matches the weight of the Tape-Ins so that the weight is balanced, and not weighing down your hair.
With Tape-Ins, you also don’t have to do as much to your natural hair. Heat styling and damage is cut down, hair can grow quicker from less damage, and your hair gets healthier in the process.
My experience: My hair feels thicker, but not heavier. Of course there's added weight because there's more hair overall, but I feel no stress on my natural hair. When we remove the extensions, we'll maybe see a few strands of hair that come out with the tape, but generally speaking, my hair feels even healthier than before.
we described it to me that with other some of the extension methods, you'll feel the need to keep the extensions in because your hair is slowly getting damaged over time. Tape-Ins are a method that you can actually to do heal your hair, and eventually take out (once your hair grows, heals, etc.).
How long does the process of putting them in/removing them take?
Another reason why I love Tape-Ins...they're SO quick. Putting the extensions in depends on how much hair you're using, but the actual "install" typically takes about 30 minutes for a full head. Important to note that hair needs to be clarified and blown out before putting extensions in through so that time may need to be added on.
Removing extensions may take a little longer (about 45-minutes).
What is the process of removing tape-in extensions?
A remover spray is sprayed on to the tape, which loosens it and allows the two pieces to pull apart. Then, the extensions are re-set with new tape (basically creating a brand new extension), so they can be taped back in.
How long do tape-ins last?
This depends on how quickly your hair grows, and your preference for how close the extensions sit to your root. When the Tape-Ins are first applied, they're applied about 1/4 inch away from your root. The average time people wait before getting the extensions moved back up is 6-12 weeks. I typically wait 8 or so weeks!
In terms of replacing your actual extensions, it's recommended that you get new hair every year (some people stretch this to 1 1/2 years - 2 years). Since the hair isn't acting like your natural hair (growing, being trimmed, growing more, etc.), over time, it needs to be replaced.
Do tape-in extensions need to be treated differently than your natural hair?
For the most part, no! It's important to be mindful not to put any oils or conditioners close to your root where the tape lies, which can loosen the adhesive over time. Other than that, however, as long as you're taking care of your hair with a heat protectant, they can be washed, blowdried, and heat styled as usual.
Should people with already thick hair get extensions?
Totally! Extensions can be used for length and/or thickness. Having thick hair (like I do) doesn't mean you shouldn't get extensions. Another scenario for which recommends Tape-In extensions is if your hair is damaged. There’s a lot you can do with color on extensions instead of actually coloring your hair by creating balayage, highlighting, etc. without damaging your natural hair.
