Say goodbye to your old clip-ins and say hello to the new innovated tape-in extensions. Tape-in extensions are the perfect way to add luxurious volume and length to your hair for a short period, lasting one to two months. In addition, the extensions are painless, non-damaging, and highly versatile–you can even rock a high ponytail without the extensions showing.
Plus, unlike clip-ins and wigs that can be uncomfortable to wear, tape-in extensions are relatively painless. Think of hair extensions that are lightweight and breathable, so they won’t be pulling at your natural strands.
We chatted with Atlanta-based Hairstylist Kaleah Slay from Super Remy Hair about the process of installing the extensions, up-keep, and the best hair to use. Here is everything you to know about tape-ins before you schedule an appointment.
Unlike clip-ins, tape-in extensions have to be professionally installed.
Tape-in extensions are one to one and a half inches of sections of hair that are pre-taped with medical-grade glue to your hair. The extensions have to be professionally installed by a licensed cosmetologist. Tape-ins can not be DIYed, unlike clip-ins. The extensions must be applied to clean hair to ensure that the adhesive sticks on the client’s hair. Once the hair is straightened or blown out, the hairstylist will then “sandwich” the two wefts of extensions with the client’s hair in between. Tape-in extensions installment also require no tools or chemicals.
Tape-ins will last from eight to ten weeks, depending on new growth and quality of extensions.
Once the hair has grown out quite a bit, the extensions will need to be taken out by a professional. The hairstylist will use a specific tape-in remover solution to make the process painless and easy, leaving your natural hair undamaged.
Tape-in extensions come in different hair textures.
Tape-in extensions are sold in various hair textures, from Type 1 to Type 4 hair. Curly-haired clients will need to receive a blowout or silk press for the popular luxurious long pressed look so that the natural hair will blend in with the straight extensions. In this case, Slay recommends that “wavy and curly textures to be mindful that as your new growth comes in your natural texture will be exposed.” For long-lasting results, purchasing a hair type that matches your natural hair will work best.