Like other women, we grow up believing our hair is our best asset. It’s usually the first thing most people love to notice about us. So it seems logical that we constantly seek tricks to make our hair appear its best.
One of the quickest techniques is to get hair extensions. They can give you the length and volume you’ve always wanted and help you achieve various hairstyles.
However, extensions are not without their challenges. One of the biggest challenges is taking care of them to last as long as possible. This blog post will provide detailed insight into what tape is in hair extensions, how to install tape-in hair extensions and how to take care of tape in hair extensions.
What are tape-in hair extensions, and how do they work?
Tape in hair extensions is a type of semi-permanent hair extension that you apply using double-sided tape. The wings are usually made from natural human hair, which can be cut, styled, and colored just like your own hair.
Why does tape in hair extensions need special care?
Tape in hair extensions needs to care for differently than your natural hair or other extensions because the tape can become dry and brittle over time. If the tape isn’t kept moisturized, it can begin to disintegrate, and the extensions will start to fall out.
In addition, the tangling and matting that can occur with other types of extensions is also a problem with tape-in extensions. The hair can become matted at the roots, creating a very uncomfortable feeling.
How to Take Care of Tape In Hair Extensions
Undoubtedly, taking care of tape in hair extensions requires extra time and effort. Still, it is worth it to keep your extensions looking their best. Here are my top tips for taking care of tape in hair extensions:
Use a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner
Sulfates are a type of ingredient that is often found in shampoos and conditioners. They are known for their cleansing properties but can also be dried. This is why it’s essential to use a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner when you have tape-in extensions, as sulfates can dry out the tape and cause it to become brittle.
Several sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners are on the market, so you should have no problem finding one that works for you. But check the labels to ensure that they are genuinely sulfate-free.
Practice daily base detangling
Tangling is especially true if you have fine or thin hair, as the extensions can easily slip out of place and become matted. To avoid this, you should practice daily base detangling. This means gently running a wide-toothed comb through your hair, starting at the roots and working to the ends.
Be sure to take your time and be gentle. If you find that your comb is getting stuck, try using a detangling spray or leave-in conditioner. This will help to loosen the knots and make detangling easier.
Wash them properly
Washing your tape-in extensions is essential for two reasons. First, it helps to remove any build-up that may have accumulated on the hair, such as oils, dirt, and products. Second, it helps keep the tape moist and pliable, preventing it from drying out and becoming brittle.
To wash tape in hair extensions, start by wetting them down with lukewarm water. Then, pour a small quantity of sulfate-free shampoo on your hands and massaging it into the hair.
After that, rinse the shampoo with lukewarm water and apply a conditioner. Let the conditioner sit in your hair for a few minutes before rinsing it.
Hydration is important
Hydration is defined as the process of providing water or moisture to something. In the case of hair extensions, hydration refers to keeping the hair moisturized so that it stays healthy and doesn’t become dry, brittle, or damaged.
Hydration is essential for hair extensions because they do not receive the same amount of oils and moisture as your hair.
There are a few things you can do to keep your hair extensions hydrated:
- Use a humidifier: If you live in a dry climate or tend to have dry indoor air, using a humidifier can help keep your hair extensions hydrated.
- Wash with moisturizing products: These contain ingredients like glycerin or shea butter, providing excellent moisture for your hair.
Keep them clean
Like your hair, tape in hair extensions can become dirty and oily over time. If you don’t keep them clean, they can become a breeding ground for bacteria, leading to scalp infections.
In addition, dirty hair extensions can cause the tape to become less adhesive, which can cause the extensions to slip out of position.
What not to do when you have tape in hair extensions?
Here are some things to avoid if you have tape in hair extensions:
- Avoid over washing: Over-washing is just like a dry shampoo addiction. It will dry out your scalp and can cause the tape to lose its grip. Just wash them 2-3 times per week or as needed.
- Don’t use hot tools: Hot tools like curling and flat irons can cause the tape to loosen because tape bonds are heat sensitive. So when they catch the heat, the bonds start to melt, and as a result, you get loose hair extensions.
- Avoid tight hairstyles: Tight hairstyles can put too much tension on the hair and cause the tape to loosen. So, avoid tight ponytails, buns, or braids.
- Avoid swimming: Most extension users have a common concern: “Can we go for a swim with hair extensions?”. Well, the answer is no because chlorine and salt water reacts with the tape and make them loosen.
- Do not use oil-based products: When you apply oil-based products to the roots of hair extensions, they create a surrounding that doesn’t let the tape grip firmly.
- Never sleep with wet hair extensions: When you go to bed with wet hair extensions, the strands start playing and can tangle badly. Also, in some cases, it might lead to mildew.
Conclusion:
Let’s conclude the complete guide about how to take care of tape in hair extensions by summarizing the main points. To take care of your tape-in hair extensions, you should wash them 2-3 times per week with a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner. You should also use a humidifier to keep them hydrated. Avoid over washing, using hot tools, tight hairstyles, and swimming. Never sleep with wet hair extensions to avoid any mess-up.
FAQ:
Can I color my hair while wearing tape-in extensions?
Yes, but we recommend consulting a professional colorist as they will know how to apply the color best, so it doesn’t damage the extensions.
Can I use oil-based products with my tape-in extensions?
No, because oil reacts like a barrier between the tape and your hair, causing them to loosen.
What are the best styles to wear with tape-in extensions?
Loose styles are best, such as beachy waves or loose curls. Avoid tight styles such as ponytails, buns, or braids.