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.
Cons of Tape in Hair Extensions
Although tape ins are extremely convenient, they tend to have a bit of a messy refitting process, one that's longer than other extension methods, as the tapes need to be safely removed with a medical grade adhesive, also known as tape remover, and then reapplied every 6-8 weeks.
Do Tape In Extensions Damage Your Hair? The truth is, tape in hair extensions can damage your natural hair. If you have them applied by a specialist, do not wear them frequently, and ensure that you look after them properly, however, there should be no reason to worry about long term damage.
Well, hair does grow while you wear extensions, but it can take a few years to get it to a length you want (ie if you wear extensions to add 10 inches...that's about 1.5 years of hair growth on average).
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.
Wait 48 Hours Before Washing Hair With Tape Ins
Hold off on washing your hair with tape ins for at least 2 days.
Microbeads or micro loops are the most damaging type of hair extension, due to the strain they put on the natural hair. Microbeads or micro loops are often made with metal or heavy plastics, which can weigh down on the hair follicles and cause breakage at the root.
One of the most exciting examples of the newest hair extension method is the introduction of UV-hair extensions. This process, similar to getting gel nails done at your trusted nail salon, involves bonding single strands of hair to your natural hair using a special hair safe glue and UV light.
Tape-in extensions
Tape-ins are a more expensive option, with prices ranging from $500 to $1000. They are applied with a tape adhesive and can be worn for 4-6 weeks until they require a maintenance session to move them up. They are a great option for those who want to add volume and length to their hair.
Wash 1-2 times per week and condition 2-3 times. Don't use oil-based hair products near the bonds. Don't blow dry your hair upside down. Don't sleep with wet hair.
Use 20 to 40 tape-ins (single-sided) or 40-60 tape-ins (double-sided) for medium-density hair. Take note that thicker hair usually needs more to maintain a balanced look. For thick-density hair, use 40 to 60 tape-ins for single-sided and 60 to 80 for double-sided.
Do not use dry shampoo on the tapes as it will cause them to loose stickiness. Wash your hair using vertical movements not circular or horizontal to avoid tangles. Apply leave in conditioner and heat protector before blow drying or using any heated tools. Apply oil to the ends of your hair twice a day.
If not done correctly, they can indeed cause strain and damage to your natural strands.
Hand-tied, halo, and tape-in options are some of the best hair extensions for thin hair.
Choosing the Right Fit for You
If you're someone who frequently styles your hair in various ways, nanos might be your go-to due to their 360-degree movement. On the other hand, if your primary concern is thickness, tape extensions could be the best solution.
The Kardashians use high-quality hair extensions to achieve their iconic looks. Popular brands they use include Bellami Hair Extensions, Glam Seamless Extensions, and Hidden Crown Hair Extensions.
Sewn-in extensions are the most natural looking and are applied directly to your scalp. This method is also the most expensive, as it requires a hair extension professional to apply them; however, they last longer than other types of extensions.
Micro-link extensions, also known as micro-bead or micro-ring extensions, are a popular choice for celebrities who want a seamless, natural-looking blend. This method involves attaching small sections of hair extensions to the natural hair using tiny metal beads or rings.
Clip-ins are considered to be the least damaging type of hair extension because they also have the least permanent installation process. They don't require any heat or chemical treatments and can be easily removed when not in use.
Because a weave or extensions often require women to wear their natural hair tightly pulled, this can be tough on hair. The constant pulling can cause strands of hair to break or fall out, and it could damage your hair follicles.
Don't Place Tape In Extensions Too Close to the Scalp
Aim to place your tape-in hair extensions between ¼ and ½ inch from the scalp. If you place it too close to the scalp, it doesn't allow the hair to fall naturally, which can create tension and buckling.
Our top tip on achieving a seamless ponytail with tape in extensions all comes down to placement! To ensure the tapes are undetectable, you're going to want to opt for a medium to low ponytail. This is so that the tape tabs lay flat against your head and are completely undetectable.