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It may be time to embrace your coveted clip in extensions Goodbye. Beauty lovers have long relied on clips as a quick and easy method to boost volume and rock longer hair. However, hair extensions give the tried-and-tested staple a run for its money.
According to hairdresser published Jachelle Merlan, “tape-in extensions are exactly what their name implies.” Tape-in hair extensions are 4cm long wefts of hair glued into your natural hair row by row to provide a breathable, seamless look. “The wefts have a soft, medical-grade adhesive tab that’s applied via the ‘sandwich’ method of sticking two wefts per section with your hair secured in between,” says Jachelle. It’s no surprise, then, that Jachelle shares that “tape-in extensions have long been a celebrity hairstylist’s secret weapon.”
Tape-in hair extensions are a step up from traditional clip-ins because there is no pain or discomfort during the installation process. Plus, this innovative setup is gentle on your mane, provided you follow proper hair care methods to keep your hair looking its best.
If you’re ready to jump on the tape in hair extensions trend, look no further. Jachelle gives us an overview of everything from the required length of tape in extensions to the cost of service. So it’s time to prepare a pen and notepad or bookmark this article for future reference. Here are five things you need to know about tape extenders before committing to installation.
1. Tape in extensions can be found in all hair types.
The beauty of tape in hair extensions is that they come in different textures. Jachelle shares that tape in extensions are available in straight, curly, kinky and wavy textures.
2. There is a length requirement for tape in hair extensions.
Sorry, lovers of fashion cuts! You must have a certain length to rock the tape extensions. “Natural hair can be as short as 2-3 inches to use this method, I would recommend a larger amount of extensions for a more even blend of your short and thin hair,” says Jachelle.
3. Tape-in hair extensions are a bit expensive.
Let’s be honest; Trips to the salon can be quite expensive and opting for tape in extensions is no exception. “Installations can start from $400 and up if the stylist also supplies the hair, which can total up to $1,200,” says Jachelle. “Ribbons typically start at $150-$400 per seven pieces of weft depending on lengths desired.” It is always better to go for premium quality tape in extensions. After all, it’s the only way to ensure that you’ll walk away with the results you want.
4. Keeping your hair and scalp clean is essential for maintaining tape in extensions.
Tape-in hair extensions (and other hair extensions for that matter) require a clean, healthy scalp to go the distance. “Using a sulfate-free shampoo is an absolute must. Shampoo using downward strokes, rinse, gently wring water out of hair,” Jachelle shares. ends only to prevent weft slippage.”
When it comes to drying your tape in extensions, there are two options: blow drying or air drying. A heat protectant should be used in tandem with hot tools to maintain the integrity of your tape in extensions. However, it may be better to opt for air drying as it puts less wear and tear on your extensions. Jachelle also states that “detangling dry hair daily does wonders to prevent tangles and tangles.” Be sure to invest in a proper detangling brush for extensions to avoid excessive pulling.
5. You should visit your stylist every six to eight weeks for general maintenance.
Adhesive extensions are not a set-it-and-forget-it trend. Along with maintaining a strict hair care regimen, seeing your stylist every six to eight weeks is an absolute must. “Wefts are usually removed, cleaned, and reapplied with new tabs during your maintenance appointment with your stylist,” Jachelle shares. This trick comes in handy because oils and dirt can build up on the adhesive tabs which can harm your mane.
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