How to Tape In Hair Extensions: A Step-by-Step Guide - YogHair (2024)

Introduction to Tape-In Hair Extensions

Tape-in hair extensions are a popular method for lengthening and volumizing hair. They provide a semi-permanent way to achieve longer, fuller locks without the damage caused by other extension application methods.

Tape-in extensions consist of wefts with pre-taped panels at the top and bottom. The tape panels bond to small sections of your natural hair to create a seamless blend and hold the extensions in place. Tape-ins allow for easy installation at home and last 4-8 weeks with proper maintenance.

Compared to other techniques like clip-ins or micro ring/bead extensions, tape-ins are lighter in weight and less likely to cause tension on your natural hair. The tape adhesive does not damage hair like glue or keratin bonds. Tape-ins can be reused again after removal, so they are a cost-effective option for achieving customizable length and volume over time.

Benefits of Using Tape-In Hair Extensions

Less Damage to Natural Hair

The gentle adhesive tapes used in tape-in extensions provide hold without destroying your hair like some permanent extension methods. There are no harsh chemicals or heat tools required, so your natural hair stays healthy. The tape bonds only to the outer cuticle layer of hair rather than penetrating the cortex like keratin bonds.

Lightweight and Undetectable

Properly applied tape-in extensions feel lightweight and blend seamlessly with your natural hair. The wefts are very thin, and the tape bonds only to tiny sections rather than the whole head. You should not be able to feel where your natural hair ends and the extensions begin when wearing tape-ins.

Reusable and Cost-Effective

Tape-in extensions can be removed safely and reapplied multiple times if cared for properly. So you get more wear for your money compared to temporary options like clip-ins. Tape-ins allow you to change up your look more frequently compared to permanent extensions.

Easy to Install at Home

Applying tape-in extensions yourself is simple and does not require special tools or professional expertise. You can customize the placement and use as many or as few wefts as desired for your preferred look. DIY application makes tape-ins a versatile and affordable way to test out new lengths and volumes.

Customizable Volume and Color

Tape-in extensions allow you to add subtle length and thickness precisely where desired. You can use multiple color shades of hair to create ombre or highlighted effects. The customizable nature of tape-ins lets you experiment with new looks without the commitment of permanent extensions.

Step-by-Step Guide on How to Tape In Hair Extensions

Installing tape-in extensions on your own hair is a relatively simple process, but proper technique is important for achieving a seamless blend. Follow these step-by-step instructions for applying tape-ins like a pro:

Preparation

• Have all necessary supplies on hand – tape-in wefts, dual-sided adhesive tape strips, sharp scissors, tail comb, clips, rubbing alcohol, hair dryer/blow dryer
• Ensure your hair is freshly washed, completely dry, and product-free before application
• Work in sections, clipping back any hair not being extended to keep it separate

Sectioning the Hair

• Part your natural hair horizontally from ear to ear where you want the tape-in wefts placed
• Create a straight, clean part line using the tail of a rat tail comb
• Section out a 1-2 inch wide segment of hair across the part line for the weft placement
• Repeat parting and sectioning across the head, about 1-2 inches apart, to allow for multiple weft application

Applying Tape Extensions

• Select a weft that matches your hair length, texture, and color as closely as possible
• Identify the tape panels on the top and bottom of the weft
• Remove the protective covering from the adhesive side of the tape
• Position the weft against your part so the top tape aligns just above the roots
• Gently press the top tape against your sectioned hair to secure in place
• Smooth the weft downward and press the bottom tape to adhere it
• Use comb to blend hair over tape for seamless finish
• Repeat process with additional wefts in the sectioned rows until desired fullness is achieved

Setting and Finishing

• Carefully blow dry each weft using moderate heat/air flow to activate the tape adhesive
• Use fingers to gently push any lifted areas of the wefts back in place while blow drying
• Check for any gaps where your natural hair shows through and fill in with additional wefts as needed
• Use styling products and heat tools as desired to style and blend hair extensions into your natural hair
• Take care not to overheat the tape bonds when using hot tools

Choosing the Right Tape-In Hair Extensions for Your Hair Type

Selecting high quality tape-in hair extensions that match your natural hair is key for achieving a seamless, undetectable blend. Consider these factors when shopping for tape-in extensions:

Hair Texture

• Straight hair – choose silky, straight texture wefts with cuticles all facing same direction
• Wavy hair – select wefts with a natural wave pattern similar to your hair’s
• Curly hair – pick tightly curled or coiled weft textures to blend best with your curls

Hair Density

• Fine hair – use wefts with lower hair densities (80-120g) to prevent bulky look
• Medium density – 130-160g density wefts work well to blend naturally
• Thick hair – high density 170-200g wefts will mimic your volume best

Hair Color

• Solid color – match exactly to your current shade
• Highlighted hair – choose several coordinating colors/tones for an highlighted effect
• Ombre – select wefts in gradually lightening or darkening shades

Hair Length

• Short hair – stick with 10″-14″ weft lengths to look natural
• Medium length – 16″-20″ wefts are ideal for shoulder length styles
• Long hair – 22″-28″ wefts suit waist length or longer styles

Preparing Your Hair for Tape-In Extensions

Proper hair prep before applying tape-in extensions ensures the best results. Follow these tips:

• Shampoo and condition hair the day before installing extensions to remove oils and product buildup. Avoid conditioners with silicones or oils that can prevent tape adhesion.
• Let your hair dry fully to prevent the tape from bonding prematurely. Avoid heat styling tools after washing.
• Use a clarifying shampoo weekly before tape-in installation to keep hair free of residue.
• Comb through hair neatly and detangle any knots to make sectioning easier.
• If desired, create a straight, sleek foundation by blowing hair out with a round brush for a seamless blend with the straight weft texture.
• Part hair clearly where you want the weft placement. Use a tail comb to create clean sections.
• braid back any front pieces you don’t want extended out of the way.

Applying Tape-In Extensions: Do’s and Don’ts

Follow these tips when applying your tape-in hair extensions at home for the best results:

Do:

• Work in a clean, well-lit area so you can see what you’re doing
• Section hair cleanly and evenly for seamless weft application
• Handle the adhesive tape strips carefully to keep them lint/debris-free
• Pull hair taut when pressing tape strips against sections
• Blow dry each weft thoroughly on warm heat to activate the bond
• Blend in light layers of extensions for a natural look

Don’t:

• Apply any hair products, oils or creams before installing tape-ins
• Overlap wefts too closely together or allow gaps in between
• Use excessive tension when smoothing wefts against your hair sections
• Neglect blow drying the tape bonds to set them fully
• Overdo it with too many wefts, creating bulky, visible extensions
• Apply bonding tape directly on the scalp, where it can lift and irritate

Maintenance Tips for Tape-In Extensions

Caring properly for your tape-in hair extensions ensures they last 4-8 weeks and remain looking fresh. Follow these care instructions:

Gentle Handling

• Avoid pulling, tugging, or applying excess tension to the extensions when brushing, styling, or sleeping.
• Use a wide tooth comb and gently detangle, starting at the ends, to prevent extension shedding.
• Braid or tie up long extensions before bed to prevent tangling during sleep.

Proper Washing

• Use a sulfate-free, color-safe shampoo and conditioner to keep extensions looking smooth and vibrant.
• Wash extensions every 3-5 days to prevent product buildup from affecting the bonds.
• Avoid vigorous scrubbing against the tape bonds when shampooing.
• Allow extensions to air dry or use low heat when blow drying after washing.

Re-Adhering the Tape

• Check the tape bonds every 1-2 weeks and re-apply any lifting edges using new adhesive tape strips.
• To re-tape, gently lift the lifted section and slide new tape underneath, then smooth back down.
• Blow dry on warm to reactivate the adhesive and seal the bonds.

Removing Tape-In Extensions Without Damaging Your Hair

Taking out tape-in extensions properly ensures you can reuse them again as well as avoid pulling out your natural hair in the process:

Preparation

• Have removal solvent – remove adhesive remover solution or oil like coconut oil
• Work over a towel in a well-lit room
• Detangle extensions gently with a wide-tooth comb
• Section hair around the wefts, making removal easier

Removal Process

• Saturate tape bonds with removal solvent – work solvent in to loosen grip
• Slowly slide weft extension down length of hair until it is fully loosened
• Gently rock from side to side while pulling down to detach completely
• Remove any leftover tape adhesive from your hair using remover solution
• Comb through sections to detangle and smooth hair after tape removal
• Wash and condition hair well after taking extensions out
• To reuse extensions, remove any remaining adhesive before reapplying

Frequently Asked Questions About Tape-In Extensions

How long do tape-in extensions last?

With proper maintenance, tape-in extensions typically last 4-8 weeks before needing to be removed and reapplied. How long they last depends on your hair type and how quickly it grows out.

Can I reuse tape-in extensions?

Yes, tape-in extensions can be reused up to 2-4 times if cared for properly between uses. To reuse, simply remove the adhesive residue and re-apply with fresh tape strips.

How do I match my hair color to extensions?

Have a professional colorist apply a semi-permanent gloss to your extensions in your exact hair color to achieve a seamless match.

Can I still straighten or curl tape-in extensions?

Yes, you can still heat style tape-in extensions, but use the lowest effective temperature to avoid damaging the bonds.

How often should the tap bonds be redone?

Plan to replace the tape adhesive every 2-4 weeks as your hair grows out. Check for lifted edges weekly and re-tape as needed.

Can tape-in extensions damage your hair?

Applied correctly using quality tape, tape-ins will not damage hair like some permanent methods. Take care not to over-tension the bonds and minimize chemical processing after application.

How much do tape-in extensions cost?

Tape-in extensions generally range from $150-$500 depending on the quality, length, and amount of hair needed. Salon installation ranges from $200-$500. DIY application at home costs less.

Where to buy Tape – In extensions

Yoghair – Top 1 Leading Vietnamese Hair Factory

Yoghair is the top leading hair factory and supplier in Vietnam, with over 20 years of experience in making high-quality human hair extensions. They offer a wide selection of tape-in hair extensions made from 100% Vietnamese virgin hair at wholesale prices.

Some benefits of buying from Yoghair include:

• 100% unprocessed virgin Vietnamese hair with cuticle aligned for a natural look
• Double drawn hair with thick ends to prevent tangling and matting
• Pre-taped wefts in multiple lengths from 14″-28″ available
• Wholesale pricing direct from the hair factory; no middleman markups
• OEM customization options are available (labeling, coloring, textures)
• Range of textures from silky straight to loose curly or Yaki
• Various hair densities and thicknesses are available to suit different needs
• Fast shipping worldwide, direct from Vietnam

Yoghair provides excelleombre and andlity extensions while eliminating middleman costs so salons, retailers, and consumers can buy directly from the source. If you want beautiful, comfortable tape-in extensions, choose Yoghair Hair Factory in Vietnam.

Govihair, – Top Vietnamese Hair Supplier

Govihair is a premier Vietnamese hair company supplying high quality virgin human hair extensions worldwide at affordable prices. They offer an extensive selection of tape-in extensions made from pure, unprocessed Vietnamese hair.

Reasons to buy from Govihair include:

• 100% virgin Remy hair that has cuticles facing same direction to reduce tangling
• Naturally thick, healthy hair harvested ethically from Vietnamese donors
• Soft and silky textures that blend seamlessly with all hair types
• Customizable lengths from 16″-30″ and densities for all needs
• Pre-taped wefts for easy DIY installation and removal
• Wholesale discounts for large orders of tape-in extensions
• Various natural colors, ombre, and highlighted options
• 30-day return policy if extensions don’t meet expectations

With strict quality control and responsible sourcing direct from Vietnamese women, Govihair provides some of the best tape-in extensions that are affordable, durable, and feel lightweight.

Conclusion: Achieving Beautiful and Natural-Looking Hair with Tape-In Extensions

Tape-in hair extensions offer an easy, damage-free way to add length, volume, and style to natural hair. Following the proper application techniques creates gorgeous, seamless results. Choosing high-quality extensions made from Vietnamese hair paired with proper at-home care keeps extensions looking flawless and undetectable. With the right maintenance over their 4-8 week lifespan, tape-ins can be an affordable, reusable way to experiment with new looks. So give your locks a boost with this popular extension method.