Tape Hair Extensions Pros and Cons: A Comprehensive Guide - YogHair (2024)

PTape-in hair extensions have become an increasingly popular method for lengthening and volumizing hair over the past several years. Unlike other types of hair extensions that can damage hair, tape-ins are considered a safe, non-damaging option when properly applied by a professional. Tape-in extensions involve small wefts of human hair that are literally taped onto sections of your natural hair using double-sided adhesive tape.

While tape-in extensions offer many benefits, they also have some downsides to consider. Yoghair hopes this comprehensive guide will outline tape hair extensions pros and cons to help you decide if they are the right choice for you.

What are Tape Hair Extensions?

Tape-in hair extensions consist of wefts of human hair that have been pre-taped on both sides with a strong, medical-grade adhesive tape. The wefts come in different widths, lengths, and colors to suit the client’s preferences. To apply them, small sections of the natural hair are partitioned horizontally, and the tape-in wefts are sandwiched in between.

The double-sided adhesive on the wefts adheres directly to the natural hair on both sides, creating a seamless blend. Tape-ins can be used to add subtle length and thickness or dramatic volume, depending on the number of wefts applied. They can also be re-taped farther up the hair as the natural hair grows out to maintain a seamless look.

Tape hair extensions pros and cons

Pros of tape hair extensions

Less Damage to Natural Hair

One of the biggest advantages of tape-in extensions is that they don’t damage the natural hair the way some other extension techniques can. When correctly applied by a trained professional, the medical-grade adhesive tapes bond securely to the hair without using excess heat, glue, or other chemicals. The light tension distributed across the head by tape-ins is gentler on the hair than the pull of braids or beads.

Look and Feel Natural

Well-applied tape for extensions has an ultra-natural appearance and a seamless blend with your natural hair. The wefts are lightweight, and the tape bonds invisibly under the top layer of hair. Tape-ins move and behave like real hair, without the obvious bumps and ridges of some other extension methods. The smooth, flat application and ability to color match the extensions mean they look like your own hair.

Less Maintenance

Tape-in extensions only need to be washed 1-2 times per week and air dried, rather than heat styled daily. The adhesive tapes keep the wefts bonded to the natural hair for 4-8 weeks before needing to be reapplied. Tape-ins require fewer salon maintenance visits than many other options. As the hair grows out, the extensions can be re-taped higher up to maintain a seamless look.

Easy to Apply and Remove

Application of tape-in extensions takes about 1-2 hours by a trained hair stylist. The removal process takes just 15-30 minutes. No harsh chemicals or heat are required to apply or remove the tape-ins. The quick, gentle application and removal make tape-ins a go-to choice for temporary hair extensions.

Versatile Styling Options

Tape-in extensions allow you to add subtle length and volume or go for a dramatic transformation. Once applied, tape-ins can be styled just like natural hair – straightened, curled, pulled up, or worn down. You can go from a bob to cascading mermaid length hair instantly. Tape-ins give you the freedom to experiment with different looks.

Cons of Tape Hair Extensions

More Expensive Long Term

The initial cost of tape-in extensions may be on par with other semi-permanent options, like clip-ins. However, since tape-ins have to be moved up and reapplied every 4-8 weeks, the long-term cost is higher than one-time options. Regular salon visits make tape-ins a more expensive style commitment.

Can’t Wash Regularly

Frequent washing and heat styling can weaken the adhesive bond of tape-in extensions. They should be shampooed no more than 1-2 times per week, preferably using a dry shampoo to absorb oil in between. Too much moisture and manipulation can cause the extensions to loosen or shed prematurely.

Not for Thin or Damaged Hair

Tape-in extensions adhere best to thick, strong sections of hair. They are not recommended for fine, thin, or breakage-prone hair. The adhesive tapes can stick to each other and pull out fragile hair. Similarly, chemically-processed or bleached hair may be too weak for tape-ins. Extensions can rip out the hair when removed.

Can Cause Breakage if Applied Wrong

A perfect tape-in application is an art. In the wrong hands, tape-ins can be a disaster. The tapes must be applied to perfectly clean, oil-free sections of hair without overlapping. Improperly applied tape-ins can unravel, shed, cause breakage, headaches, and even hair loss. See an experienced stylist you trust.

Not Meant for Long-Term Wear

While tape-ins can be reapplied every 4-8 weeks, they are not meant to be worn constantly long-term. Allowing the hair to breathe without extensions for 1-2 months per year is recommended to maintain the health of your natural hair. Tape-ins are best for short-term, temporary wear.

Longevity of Tape Hair Extensions

With proper application and maintenance, tape-in hair extensions typically last 4-8 weeks before needing to be reapplied. During this time, they should remain securely bonded and look perfectly natural. Over time, the adhesive bond weakens through regular styling, washing, and environmental exposure. The natural hair also grows out from the roots, leaving gaps and loosened sections.

To maximize longevity, wash hair infrequently, 1-2 times per week, and avoid unnecessary heat styling tools. Use a boar bristle brush and your fingers to style when possible. See your stylist promptly when bonding starts to fail for a quick removal and reapplication. With repeated maintenance every 4-8 weeks, tape-ins can be worn for many months in a row.

Maintenance and Care for Tape Hair Extensions

Caring properly for tape-in extensions is key to making them last and look flawless. Here are some of the top maintenance tips:

• Wash just 1-2 times per week with a sulfate-free, color-safe shampoo and gentle brushing in the shower. Avoid vigorous backcombing when your hair is wet.
• Use dry shampoo between washes to absorb oil at the roots without wetting the hair.
• Limit the use of heat tools like blowdryers, curling irons, and straighteners to 2-3 times per week, max. Air dry when possible.
• Apply leave-in conditioning spray and argan oil to mid-lengths and ends to keep them moisturized, prevent tangling, and reduce friction.
• Gently detangle any knots using a wide tooth comb or fingers, not brushes. Start from the bottom up to avoid pulling on bonds.
• Sleep on a silk pillowcase to minimize friction and prevent tangles overnight.
• Schedule regular maintenance visits with your stylist to check the bonds and re-tape as needed.

Cost Comparison With Other Hair Extension Types

• Tape-ins: $200-500 initial application; $75-150 reapply every 4-8 weeks.
• Clip-ins: $100-300 one-time cost.
• Micro bead/loop: $1200-2500 initial, $250 reapply every 6-8 weeks.
• Weave: $400-1500 initial, $100-250 reapply every 4-6 weeks.
• Fusion/keratin: $500-1500 initial, $150-350 touch up every 3-4 months.

Tape-in extensions are more affordable than micro-bead, fusion, or sew-in extensions for the initial application. However, the need to reapply tape-ins every 4-8 weeks makes them more costly long-term than one-time options like clip-ins. Frequent maintenance is the biggest expense with tape-ins.

Suitability for Different Hair Types

Tape-in extensions work best for those with thick, straight, smooth hair textures. Fine, fragile, or chemically-damaged hair may not hold the tape adhesive well. Very curly or textured hair can also be tricky for blending tape-in wefts smoothly.

Here are some tips for different hair types:

• Straight hair: is ideal for tape-ins. Allows seamless blending.
• Wavy hair: Works well but may need some smoothing product.
• Curly hair: can be more difficult. May require some straightening or relaxing first.
• Fine hair: Avoid tape-ins as they may breakage and pull out hair.
• Thick hair: great candidate. Provides a sturdy base for strong bonding.
• African American hair: moderate candidate May require a relaxer and smoothing first.
• Damaged/colored hair: Avoid tape-ins as adhesive may rip out more hair.
• Talk to a stylist about your hair type and texture to see if you are a good candidate for tape-in extensions. Some prep work, like treatments or relaxing, may optimize results.

How to Properly Apply and Remove Tape-In Extensions

Perfect application and removal by a trained, experienced stylist is key to getting the most out of tape-in extensions. Here is an overview of the application and removal process:

Application:

1. Hair is shampooed, conditioned, and thoroughly dried.
2. Small horizontal sections are tightly partitioned for a secure bond.
3. Extensions and natural hair are prepared with a bonding agent for optimal adherence.
4. Tape weft is precisely positioned onto the underside of the section, sandwiched right against the scalp.
5. The top section of hair is smoothed onto the weft to fully enclose it.
6. The process is repeated with rows staggered throughout the hair for a seamless blend.

Removal:

1. The hair is parted into sections to access the tape bonds.
2. Using a pointed tip, the stylist gently lifts the edge of the tape tab.
3. Tape is slowly peeled back from the natural hair, avoiding ripping.
4. Gentle sliding motions and tension relief prevent hair shedding.
5. The bonding agent is cleaned away, and the hair is conditioned after removal.
6. Getting tape-ins applied and removed properly by a highly experienced stylist minimizes damage and maximizes results. Take the time to find someone qualified to work with this specialized technique.

Where to Buy Tape Hair Extensions

When investing in tape-in hair extensions, quality is critical. Only purchase 100% Remy human hair extensions from a reputable, trustworthy supplier known for excellent materials and craftsmanship. Here are two top sources:

Yoghair – the top Wholesale Hair Factory in Vietnam

Yoghair has over 10 years of experience specializing in high-quality Remy human hair extensions made from single-donor hair. Their exclusive raw virgin hair materials are ethically-sourced from female donors in rural Vietnam. Extension hair undergoes a patented amino acid-infused steam processing method to retain cuticles and shine. Yoghair exports globally and offers wholesale discount prices, dropshipping services, custom orders, and excellent customer service. Their tape-in extensions come in natural black in every hue, thickness, length, and texture.

Govihair, – Leading Vietnamese Hair Supplier

Govihair is a premier Vietnamese hair company and a leading supplier to distributors worldwide. Their 100% virgin Remy hair extensions are renown for their unparalleled softness, shine, durability, and longevity. Hair is ethically sourced exclusively from young Vietnamese women and crafted using proprietary steam processing methods. Their quality control experts hand-select and inspect every bundle to ensure perfection prior to export. In addition to closures and a variety of tape-in options, Govihair also offers color-blended extensions, clip-ins, closures, and wigs.

Conclusion

Tape-in hair extensions offer a semi-permanent option for lengthening and volumizing your hair safely. The hair blends seamlessly and is styled just like your own. However, tape-ins must be reapplied every 4-8 weeks on an ongoing basis at additional cost. Proper application and maintenance are crucial to minimizing damage and maximizing wearability. For the right candidate with the proper hair type, tape-ins can provide striking temporary results. Carefully weigh the pros and cons and maintenance requirements before making your decision.