Tape in hair extensions are a popular choice for many women because they are quick and easy to install and allow you to add length, volume, and thickness to your hair in minutes.
However, there are some things you should know about tape in hair extensions before you make your final decision. We will discuss tape in extensions and their pros and cons so you can decide if they are they suit you and your style.
Tape in extensions pros and cons at a glance
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Pros |
Cons |
|
Natural-looking volume and length |
Need to be fitted and removed by a trained stylist |
|
Lie flat, so you can wear your hair up |
Move-up appointments every 6 to 8 weeks |
|
Gentle on your hair when fitted professionally |
Oils and conditioner need to stay away from the tabs |
|
Quick to fit compared with bonded methods |
Can show if they're placed too close to your parting |
|
The same hair can be refitted for months |
May feel a little tight for the first day or two |
The pros of tape in extensions
Natural-looking volume and length
Tape ins give you fuller, longer hair from the moment you wake up, and because they're 100% Remy human hair, they move, shine and style just like your own.
Gentle on your hair when fitted professionally
The flat, wide tabs spread the weight across a section of your natural hair rather than putting too much pressure on individual strands.
When they're professionally fitted, and the right weight is used for your hair, tape ins can be a comfortable option for everyday wear.
Easy to care for
Once they're fitted, you can wash, dry and style your tape ins much like your natural hair. You just need to make a few small changes to your routine, particularly when it comes to keeping oils and conditioner away from the tabs.
Our guide to caring for tape in extensions has everything you need to keep them looking their best..
Reusable
Tape in hair extensions are a popular choice for many women because they are relatively affordable and easy to apply. Plus, they can be reused multiple times if they are cared for properly.
Discreet, even with your hair up
The tabs lie flat against your head, so they're easy to hide in a ponytail or a loose bun once your stylist has placed them with updos in mind.
A few things to consider before choosing Tape Ins
Tape in extensions are a lovely way to enjoy longer, fuller hair, but there are a few things worth knowing before having them fitted.
Professional Fitting Is Important
For the best results, we'd always recommend having your tape ins fitted by a trained extension stylist. They'll know exactly where to place each tab so your extensions sit comfortably, stay discreet and blend naturally with your own hair.
Correct fitting also helps avoid unnecessary pulling or strain on your natural hair, so you can enjoy your new length with confidence.
You'll Need Regular Maintenance
As your natural hair grows, your tape ins will need moving up every 6 to 8 weeks. Your stylist will remove and refit them closer to your roots, helping them stay comfortable and looking their best.
It's worth keeping these appointments in mind when deciding whether tape ins are right for your routine.
A Little Extra Care Goes a Long Way
Looking after tape ins is simple once you get into a routine. A few small changes to how you wash and style your hair will help keep your extensions in lovely condition.
Use a gentle shampoo and keep conditioner, oils and heavier styling products away from the adhesive tabs. Instead, focus these products on your mid-lengths and ends to keep your hair soft and smooth.
And if your extensions ever feel uncomfortable or you notice a tab becoming visible, your stylist can check the placement and make any adjustments needed.
Do tape in extensions damage your hair?
Tape in extensions shouldn't damage your natural hair when they're professionally fitted, properly cared for and removed correctly.
Each tape in is a thin weft of 100% Remy human hair attached to a flat tab. Your stylist places a small section of your natural hair between two tabs, helping to spread the weight across the section rather than putting too much pressure on individual strands.
When damage does happen, it almost always comes down to one of three things.
Removing them at home. Tape ins are removed with a solvent that gently dissolves the adhesive. Pulling tabs off, or trying to slide them out, takes your own hair with them. Always let your stylist remove them.
Leaving them in too long. As your hair grows, the tabs move away from the root and the new growth can start to tangle underneath. Booking your move-up every 6 to 8 weeks keeps everything sitting flat and comfortable.
Tabs that are too heavy or placed too close together. Heavy tabs put strain on the hair they're attached to, especially if your hair is fine. Our LiteTape® tabs weigh around 2.5g each, and a good stylist will leave space between each one so your hair can breathe.
How long do tape in extensions last?
Each fitting lasts 6 to 8 weeks before your stylist moves them up, and with good care the hair itself lasts up to a year. Our guide to how to care for tape in extensions shows you how to make yours last.
Tape in extensions FAQs
Are tape in extensions bad for fine hair? Not when they're placed carefully and the tabs are light. Your stylist will use fewer pieces and keep them away from the thinnest areas. If your hair is very fine or fragile, clip ins may be the gentler choice.
Can tape in extensions fall out? Occasionally one may slip if conditioner or oil reaches the tabs. Keep products away from the roots, and ask your stylist to refit it rather than re-sticking it yourself.
Do tape ins hurt? They shouldn't. If you feel any tightness or itching, a tab may be sitting too close to the scalp, and your stylist can reposition it in minutes.
Can I remove tape in extensions myself? We'd always recommend your stylist does this for you. Removal needs a solvent that gently dissolves the adhesive, and pulling tabs off is the most common cause of damage.
Which hair extensions are least damaging? Clip ins, because they're only in your hair while you wear them, followed closely by professionally fitted tape ins. Our guide to the least damaging hair extensions compares every method.
Are Tape In Extensions Worth It?
Tape in extensions can be an excellent option for those looking for a semi-permanent way to add length and volume to their hair. With proper care, tape in extensions can last six to eight weeks and can be reused multiple times. However, if you’re considering tape in hair extensions, it’s essential to do your research to find a reputable salon and stylist who has experience with this type of extension.
Looking for a way to add volume and length to your hair? Check out Foxy Locks hair extensions. We have the best hair extension brands in the UK and various types of extensions available, including tape in extensions, in different lengths and colours to suit your style.