Tape In Hair Extensions Install Remove And Wash
Tape in hair extensions use adhesive tapes to attach wefts to natural hair, offering a lightweight, flat look that blends seamlessly. Here is how they actually work, from installation to care.
How Tape In Extensions Actually Work
Tape in hair extensions are attached using small adhesive tapes placed between the weft and your natural hair. The tape bonds to your hair and the weft, holding the extension in place without clips or sewing.
The tapes are designed to hold through daily movement and light moisture, but they are not permanent. They are meant to be removed and reinstalled, which is why they are called semi-permanent.
Each weft has two tapes - one on the top and one on the bottom - so the extension sits flat and does not shift. The tapes are thin and flexible, which helps them blend with your natural hairline.
Installation: What You Need to Know
The best results come from clean, dry hair. Conditioner or oil on the roots can weaken the bond. The hair should be sectioned into horizontal strips to create a clean base for each weft.
The sandwich method is used: one weft goes underneath the natural hair, another goes on top. The tapes are pressed together and sealed with fingers or a flat plier. No heat is needed - direct heat can damage the tape or the hair.
- Full head installation takes 30 to 60 minutes; partial volume takes 20 to 30 minutes
- Use a tail comb to gently separate the hair and avoid pulling on the natural strands
- Do not stretch the tape or force it to fit - this can cause early detachment
See 14 inches Best Tape In Hair Extensions →
Removal: The Only Way to Avoid Damage
Never pull the extension by force. The main reason people report hair loss is improper removal, not the tape itself.
Use an alcohol-based or citrus-based tape remover. Apply it directly to the tape bond and wait 30 to 60 seconds for the adhesive to soften.
Gently slide the weft apart using fingers or a tail comb. If it resists, reapply remover and wait longer. Pulling can damage your natural hair.
- After removal, wash the hair to remove any residue
- Reinstall by replacing the tape or using a new one - do not reuse the same tape
- The extension can be reused multiple times if handled correctly
Washing and Care: How Often and How
Wash tape in extensions 1 to 2 times per week. Over-washing can weaken the tape and cause early shedding.
Use a sulfate-free shampoo and avoid rubbing the tapes directly. Rinse thoroughly and let the hair air dry. Do not use a blow dryer on high heat near the tapes.
Avoid oil-based products near the tapes, as they can break down the adhesive.
- Do not submerge the tapes in water for long periods
- Do not sleep with wet extensions - this can loosen the bond
- Store the wefts flat or on a wig stand to prevent tangling
Why They Are Reusable and How Long They Last
Tape in extensions are designed to be reused. With proper care, they can last 6 to 8 weeks per installation before the tape loses grip.
The wefts themselves are made from 100% real human hair, so they can be styled, washed, and treated like natural hair - just avoid excessive heat.
The tape is the limiting factor. Once it no longer holds, replace it with a new tape and reinstall.
- Available in 6 lengths: 14 to 24 inches
- 15 popular colours, including jet black, brown, and grey blends
- Ideal for fine or thin hair due to their thin, flexible design
Who They Are For and How to Order
Tape in extensions are suitable for both salon professionals and home users. They are lightweight, flat, and nearly invisible, making them ideal for everyday wear.
HairNotion offers them in stock with 15 colours and 6 lengths. If you need a custom colour or length, contact us with your request.
For trade buyers, we offer bulk pricing and OEM packaging for reselling under your own brand.
Questions On This Topic
How long do tape in hair extensions last?
Each installation lasts 6 to 8 weeks, depending on washing, styling, and how often you remove and reattach them. The tape weakens over time, not the hair.
Can I wash my hair with tape in extensions?
Yes, but only 1 to 2 times per week. Use a sulfate-free shampoo and avoid soaking the tapes. Do not use hot water or blow dry directly on the tapes.
Will tape in extensions damage my natural hair?
When installed and removed correctly, they should not. The damage comes from pulling or using too much force. Always use a remover and wait before separating the weft.
Can I swim or shower with tape in extensions?
Yes, but avoid prolonged exposure to water. Rinse the hair after swimming and wash it soon after to prevent residue buildup. Use a water-resistant adhesive if you swim often.
How do I order custom colours or lengths?
Contact us with your desired colour code and length. We can match any shade from our system, including grey blends like 1B30# or 1B65#.
Do you sell tape in extensions wholesale?
Yes. Wholesale pricing starts at 10 or more units. OEM packaging is available for resellers who want to brand the product under their own name.
Can I reuse the same tape after removal?
No. The tape loses its adhesive strength after one use. Replace it with a new one before reinstalling to ensure a strong bond.
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