Tape-in Extensions: A Complete Guide for Stylists
Tape-in hair extensions are a quick and efficient way to add volume and length to any woman’s natural hair. In this article, we will delve into the advantages of tape-in extensions & how to apply them. We will also review some essential maintenance tips to ensure they last as long as possible.
Advantages of Tape-In Hair Extensions:
Natural Look
One of the most significant advantages of tape-in extensions is their seamless blend with your natural hair. The tapes lie flat against your scalp, making them virtually undetectable, even when your hair is tied up or styled differently.
Easy Application
Unlike other types of extensions, tape-ins are relatively straightforward to apply, either by a professional stylist or as a DIY project. The process is quick, taking around 30 minutes to complete.
Minimal Damage
Tape-in extensions are gentle on your natural hair. The tapes are lightweight and do not require heat or adhesives, minimizing the risk of damage during application and removal.
How to Apply Tape-In Hair Extensions
Color Your Base Hair Starting at the Root
Start by making sure that your base hair is the right color. Ugly Duckling hair extensions are color matched to some of our most popular blonde colors. So if, for example, you are going to be applying Extra Cold Ash Blonde extensions, we would suggest your first color your hair from the roots out with the equivalent Ugly Duckling color. That way you get perfect color matching between your natural hair and your extensions.
Dry and Section Your Hair
Make sure your hair is completely dry and combed out. Now divide your hair into horizontal sections, starting from the nape of your neck and working your way up. Clip the upper sections away to keep them out of the way.
Start attaching the Extensions
Remove the adhesive backing from the extension tape and sandwich a thin section of your natural hair between two tape-in extensions. Press firmly to secure.
Blend and repeat
As you move around your head, blend the extensions with your natural hair. Always use smaller wefts for the sides - you may even like to cut a piece into 2 for the sides if you have very thin and fine hair. Place larger sections on the back of your head where the hair is typically thicker.
How to Maintain Your Tape-In Hair Extensions
Brushing & Detangling
Use a soft-bristled brush to detangle your hair. Ugly Duckling sells a very good quality vented brush made of natural boar bristles and we would suggest you use that. Start from the ends and work your way up. Avoid brushing too close to the tapes to prevent pulling. Do this before you wash the hair.
Washing & Conditioning Your hair
In order to maintain your extensions, it is recommended to use acidic and sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners. Not all professional hair care products are acidic and sulfate free and for this reason we recommend Ugly Duckling’ Brilliant Blondexx Shampoo & Mask. It has Plex based technology, it is acid based and also sulfate-free. The mask in particular will help you keep the extensions tangle-free.
Styling Your Hair
You can style your tape-in extensions as you would your natural hair, but avoid using hot tools directly on the tapes to prevent potential damage.
Removing the Extensions
You will need to check and reposition the tapes every 6-8 weeks to ensure they remain secure and comfortable. You will need a tape removing solvent to remove the tape and also fresh tape. Ugly Duckling will be coming out with these accessories shortly.
