Like most women, we are raised to think that our hair is our greatest feature. Most folks usually find that to be the first thing they adore about us. It seems sense, then, that we are always looking for ways to style our hair to look its best.
Getting hair extensions is one of the fastest methods. They can help you produce a variety of hairstyles and give you the length and volume you’ve always desired.
Extensions are not without their difficulties, though. Taking care of them to prolong their life is one of the main challenges. This blog post will give you comprehensive information on what tape is used in hair extensions, how to install them, and how to maintain them.
How do tape-in hair extensions operate and what are they?
One kind of semi-permanent hair extension that you apply with double-sided tape is called a tape-in hair extension. Natural human hair, which may be trimmed, curled, and dyed to match your own hair, is typically used to make the wings.
Why is particular care required for tape-in hair extensions?
Because the tape in hair extensions can become dry and brittle over time, it requires different maintenance than either your actual hair or other types of extensions. The extensions may start to fall out if the tape doesn’t stay hydrated and starts to crumble.
Additionally, tape-in extensions run the risk of tangling and matting, which can happen with other kinds of extensions. The feeling of having matted hair at the roots can be quite painful.
How to Maintain Hair Extensions Installed with Tape
It goes without saying that maintaining tape-in hair extensions takes more time and work. Maintaining the finest possible appearance for your extensions is still worthwhile. My best advice for maintaining tape-in hair extensions is as follows:
Use shampoo and conditioner without sulfates.
Shampoos and conditioners frequently contain sulfates as one sort of component. They can be dried, although they are most known for their purifying qualities. Because sulfates can dry out and break down tape, it is imperative that you use a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner if you have tape-in extensions.
There are many of sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners available, so you should have no trouble selecting one that suits your needs. But to make sure they are truly sulfate-free, read the labels.
Engage in base detangling on a daily basis.
If you have thin or fine hair, tangling is more likely to occur since the extensions can easily fall out of position and get matted. You should do base detangling on a regular basis to prevent this. This entails starting at the roots of your hair and working your way to the ends with a wide-toothed comb.
Make sure you move slowly and gently. If you see that your comb is becoming tangled, consider applying a leave-in conditioner or detangling spray. This will facilitate detangling by helping to loosen the knots.
Give them a thorough wash.
There are two reasons why cleaning your tape-in extensions is crucial. First of all, it aids in clearing away any build-up—oils, grime, and products—that may have developed on the hair. It also keeps the tape supple and moist, which keeps it from drying out and breaking.
Wet the tapes in the hair extensions with lukewarm water before washing them. Next, use your hands to apply a tiny amount of sulfate-free shampoo, rubbing it into your hair.
Next, use lukewarm water to rinse the shampoo and follow with a conditioner application. Before you rinse it out, let the conditioner rest in your hair for a few minutes.
Staying hydrated is crucial.
The process of giving anything water or moisture is known as hydration. When it comes to hair extensions, hydration is maintaining the hair’s moisture content to prevent it from getting dry, brittle, or damaged.
Because hair extensions do not receive the same quantity of oils and moisture as your hair, they require constant hydration.
To maintain the moisture level of your hair extensions, you can do the following:
- Use a humidifier: Humidifiers can help keep your hair extensions hydrated if you live in a dry environment or experience dry indoor air.
- Use moisturizing products to wash your hair: These contain glycerin or shea butter, which are good sources of hydration for your hair.
- Maintain them tidy
- Tape-in hair extensions can get greasy and unclean over time, just like your natural hair. They can turn into a haven for bacteria if you don’t clean them, which can result in scalp infections.
- Furthermore, unclean hair extensions may result in less adhesive tape, which could lead to the extensions slipping out of place.
When you have tape-in hair extensions, what should you not do?
If you have tape in your hair extensions, you should steer clear of the following:
Steer clear of overwashing: An addiction to dry shampoo is similar to overwashing. It can make the tape less sticky and dry out your scalp. Just give them a wash once or twice a week, or as needed.
Avoid using hot tools: Due to the heat sensitivity of tape bonding, hot instruments including as curling irons and flat irons can cause the tape to come undone. Thus, the bonds begin to disintegrate when they get heated, giving you loose hair extensions.
Steer clear of tight hairstyles: They might overly strain the hair and cause the tape to come loose. So stay away from tight braids, buns, and ponytails.
Steer clear of swimming: “Can we go for a swim with hair extensions?” is a common concern shared by most extension users. The answer is no, as the tape reacts with salt water and chlorine, causing them to loosen.
Applying oil-based items to the roots of hair extensions creates an environment that prevents the tape from gripping firmly, therefore avoid doing so.
It is never a good idea to go to bed with wet hair extensions since the strands might tangle terribly and begin to play. It may also occasionally result in mildew.
In summary:
Let’s review the key topics to wrap up this comprehensive instruction on maintaining tape in hair extensions. Your tape-in hair extensions require maintenance, so wash and condition them two to three times a week using a shampoo and conditioner without sulfates. To ensure they stay hydrated, you should also use a humidifier. Steer clear of swimming, tight haircuts, heated tool use, and excessive washing. To prevent any mess, never sleep with wet hair extensions.
FAQ:
I have tape-in extensions; can I color my hair while wearing them?
Yes, however we advise speaking with a professional colorist first because they will know just how to apply the color right, protecting the extensions from harm.
Can I wear my tape-in extensions with oil-based cosmetics?
No, they loosen because oil acts as a barrier between your hair and the tape.
Which looks work best with tape-in extensions?
The greatest hairstyles are loose ones, like curls or beachy waves. Stay away from tight hairstyles like braids, buns, and ponytails.