I Tried Tape-In Extensions for the First Time (2024)

I've had fine hair all my life. In fact, there are photos of me as old as age three with just a few barely-there wisps of hair. Fortunately, my scalp has long since filled out — but the strands that are there are just as baby-fine in texture.

So when I heard that hair extensions could be used not just to add length, but volume, I was immediately intrigued. But as someone who already spends a significant amount of time and money on their beauty routine, I also had my hesitations.

Enter, tape-ins, which require far less time- and financial-commitment than bonded extensions. "Tape-in extensions allow you to have a very quick service and a great transformation for minimal time," says hairstylist and extensions specialist David Lopez.

What are the benefits of tape-in extensions?

While bonded extensions are attached to hair by tiny keratin bonds about the width of a grain of rice, tape-ins come in inch-wide bundles held together by ultra-thin adhesive strips. Because of this, your pro is able to cover more ground more quickly, which cuts down on both the length of your appointment and the price tag for their time and expertise. (It's also worth mentioning that tape-in extensions themselves also cost less than their bonded counterparts.)

"A well-executed service can be as quick as 30 minutes to as long as two hours, depending on the amount of attachment sites needed for the desired result," says Danielle Keasling, a hairstylist and executive artistic director of Great Lengths. "The longer the application takes, the higher the cost. On average, most tape-in extension services vary from $500 to $1,500. With that said, a hairline sampling can be as little as $200 [while] a full mermaid lengthening service could run over $3,000."

Keasling also adds that, like the price of a haircut, this number can vary greatly depending on geographic location.

How are tape-in extensions applied?

When I got lucky enough to find myself in Keasling's chair courtesy of Great Lengths, I wasn't sure what to expect — but the application process was totally painless.

Before I arrived, Keasling asked that I wash my hair with a clarifying shampoo. It's even better when this can happen at the salon: "A proper clarifying service [will] remove any buildup that will prevent the adhesive from adhering properly," she says.

I Tried Tape-In Extensions for the First Time (2024)

FAQs

Do tape extensions hurt at first? ›

As with anything new, the extensions are firmly fitted to your hair and the first 3 days they may feel a little tender on your scalp and tender while sleeping, this is normal and will settle after 3-5 days, during this time it is best to sleep on your side. The reason they are fitted tightly is to ensure longevity.

How long does it take for tape in extensions to settle? ›

They need some time to settle in and adjust to being on your head. This is called the "settling period." Usually it takes 2-4 weeks for the extensions to start feeling really comfortable and looking seamless, like they're your own hair. In those first few days, your scalp might feel a bit tender or itchy.

What is one disadvantage of tape in hair extensions? ›

Crooked or improperly placed tape ins do not look natural, pull on the roots and can hurt the scalp and even cause hair loss. Removing tape in extensions also requires professional help to minimize damage. Residue from the adhesive can remain on the hair and scalp for several shampoos after removal.

Why is my hair so thin after tape in extensions? ›

Unfortunately with repeated use, hair extensions can cause your hair to become thinner by putting serious and/or sustained pressure on your hair follicles. Over time, this action causes the hair follicle to stop producing hair, leading to small bald patches.

How do you sleep with new tape in extensions? ›

How to Sleep with Hair Extensions? 7 Expert Tips
  1. Make sure your hair is dry. ...
  2. Remove them (If the type allows it) ...
  3. Brush your hair. ...
  4. Braid your hair. ...
  5. Use a silk pillowcase. ...
  6. Invest in a silk hair turban. ...
  7. Put your hair into a sleep bun.
Jan 16, 2024

Do and don'ts for tape in extensions? ›

DON'T use products containing Alcohol, Ethanol, or Oil. Products that have alcohol in them are very drying to your hair and can compromise the Tape on your extensions. DON'T go to bed at night with wet hair. DON'T use straighteners or curlers higher than 350 degrees.

How many tape-ins for a full head? ›

On average, it takes 30 to 40 pieces of tape-in extension wefts for full head coverage. It's recommended to start with 40, that way, you'll have extra if it ends up needing less. You can order 10-20 pieces if you want to add extra volume as needed.

How long after tape extensions can you shower? ›

After your tape in hair extensions are applied, be sure to wait 48 hours before washing your hair. The adhesive will have been given adequate time to adhere to your natural hair, making them last longer and hold tighter. When you need to shower in those first two days, use a shower cap.

Can your hair grow with tape in extensions? ›

After 6-8 weeks of having your extensions in, your own hair will have started to grow and the extensions move with it creating a larger gap between the tab and your scalp.

Do tape in extensions ruin hair? ›

The short answer? No, they don't cause damage. In fact, Tape-Ins are one of the most popular extension methods.

How much is a full head of tape extensions? ›

Tape Hair: Volume/Half Head £40. Full Head £60.

What is the lifespan of tape in extensions? ›

One of the best parts of having tape hair extensions is the fact that if they are cared for correctly, they can last between 6-8 weeks.

How to avoid hair loss with tape in extensions? ›

To prevent hair damage from a weave or extensions, dermatologists recommend the following tips:
  1. Get your natural hair in good shape. It's important to take care of your natural hair before getting a weave or extensions. ...
  2. See a professional stylist. ...
  3. Keep your hairstyle clean. ...
  4. Protect your edges. ...
  5. Switch up your hairstyle.

How much hair do you lose with tape in extensions? ›

Tape-in extensions will not cause hair loss if they are installed, maintained, and removed properly. Attaching the tapes too close to your roots or sandwiching an extremely thin layer of real hair between two tapes is a common mistake that leads to hair loss.

Should you give your hair a break from tape in extensions? ›

This can go a long way in preventing damage and hair fall, also known as traction alopecia. Listening to your hair and giving it a break from weaves and other types of extensions is crucial if you notice any signs of distress.

How long will my head hurt after hair extensions? ›

However, it's important to keep in mind that the headaches will likely persist until the hair extensions loosen up a bit. With a little patience, you should find that your pain disappears within a few days. In the meantime, over-the-counter medication can help you get through any discomfort.

How long should extensions hurt for? ›

The first few days after having hair extensions applied can feel a little uncomfortable, especially if it's the first time you have used them. Just like anything new added to the body it can take a little time to get used too the extra weight however this will ease after 3-5 days.

Can someone feel tape in extensions? ›

Tape-Ins Will Add Weight to Your Scalp

No. But can I feel the weight of them on my hair? Yes. That said, in order to avoid damage I'd avoid any added tension by pulling on them too tightly (ponytails and such).

Do tape in hair extensions fall out easily? ›

Tape-In extensions stay in securely as long as they're installed properly. But even with the best installation, the Tape bonds will come loose if they are constantly pulled and yanked violently. Make sure to use the Hair Extension Brush and hold your hair roots with one hand to support the bonds.

Top Articles
FAQ and Instructions
Does Billy Ray Cyrus have an illegitimate child? - Answers
Amc Near My Location
Craigslist Cars Augusta Ga
Pangphip Application
Quick Pickling 101
Wisconsin Women's Volleyball Team Leaked Pictures
Amtrust Bank Cd Rates
Rainbird Wiring Diagram
Dr Lisa Jones Dvm Married
What Is Njvpdi
Beau John Maloney Houston Tx
The Cure Average Setlist
Ally Joann
91 East Freeway Accident Today 2022
Hobby Stores Near Me Now
Promiseb Discontinued
Raz-Plus Literacy Essentials for PreK-6
At&T Outage Today 2022 Map
Play It Again Sports Norman Photos
kvoa.com | News 4 Tucson
Random Bibleizer
Www.1Tamilmv.con
Does Royal Honey Work For Erectile Dysfunction - SCOBES-AR
Nurofen 400mg Tabletten (24 stuks) | De Online Drogist
Guide to Cost-Benefit Analysis of Investment Projects Economic appraisal tool for Cohesion Policy 2014-2020
Gridwords Factoring 1 Answers Pdf
Armor Crushing Weapon Crossword Clue
What does wym mean?
Royal Caribbean Luggage Tags Pending
Gideon Nicole Riddley Read Online Free
Weekly Math Review Q4 3
CARLY Thank You Notes
New York Rangers Hfboards
Pensacola Cars Craigslist
Pay Entergy Bill
Craigslist Mexicali Cars And Trucks - By Owner
Mugshots Journal Star
Nid Lcms
Birmingham City Schools Clever Login
Anderson Tribute Center Hood River
Unveiling Gali_gool Leaks: Discoveries And Insights
Brake Pads - The Best Front and Rear Brake Pads for Cars, Trucks & SUVs | AutoZone
4k Movie, Streaming, Blu-Ray Disc, and Home Theater Product Reviews & News
Shannon Sharpe Pointing Gif
Ewwwww Gif
The top 10 takeaways from the Harris-Trump presidential debate
Concentrix + Webhelp devient Concentrix
Diamond Desires Nyc
View From My Seat Madison Square Garden
King Fields Mortuary
Laurel Hubbard’s Olympic dream dies under the world’s gaze
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Nicola Considine CPA

Last Updated:

Views: 6576

Rating: 4.9 / 5 (49 voted)

Reviews: 88% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Nicola Considine CPA

Birthday: 1993-02-26

Address: 3809 Clinton Inlet, East Aleisha, UT 46318-2392

Phone: +2681424145499

Job: Government Technician

Hobby: Calligraphy, Lego building, Worldbuilding, Shooting, Bird watching, Shopping, Cooking

Introduction: My name is Nicola Considine CPA, I am a determined, witty, powerful, brainy, open, smiling, proud person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.