The way you handle your extensions daily significantly impacts their longevity and appearance. Implementing these simple habits will help maintain their quality:
- Brushing technique – Always use an extension-friendly brush with soft bristles or a loop brush specifically designed for extensions. Begin brushing at the ends and work up to prevent pulling on the tape tabs. Hold your hair above the tape bonds while brushing to minimize tension on the adhesive.
- Nighttime protection – Gently brush your extensions and secure them in a loose braid or ponytail before sleeping. The smoother fabric of silk or satin pillowcases creates less friction and prevents tangling. You might even wrap your hair in a silk scarf for extra protection.
- Heat styling considerations – While tape-in extensions can tolerate heat styling, excessive heat can weaken the adhesive bonds and damage the hair. Before using a hot tool, use a heat protectant and keep temperatures below 350°F (180°C). Direct the airflow of your blow dryer downward along the hair shaft to prevent the heat from loosening the tape.
- Exercise management – When exercising, secure your hair in a loose ponytail or braid to prevent excessive sweating around the tape tabs. After workouts, allow your hair to dry completely at the roots, as prolonged moisture can weaken the adhesive.
Washing and conditioning guidelines
Proper washing technique is perhaps the most critical aspect of tape in extension care:
- Washing frequency – Limit washing to 2-3 times weekly. Overwashing prematurely weakens the adhesive bonds and dries out the extension hair.
- Pre-wash preparation – Remove all tangles from your hair before getting wet, working from the ends upward. This prevents matting during the washing process.
- Shampoo selection – Use sulfate-free, extension-safe shampoos that clean effectively without stripping the hair or compromising the adhesive. Apply the shampoo by working it gently through your hair, avoiding direct scrubbing of the tape tabs.
- Conditioning approach – Apply conditioner from mid-length to ends only, keeping it away from the tape tabs. Conditioner near the bonds can cause slippage by breaking down the adhesive over time. To evenly distribute the conditioner, use a wide-tooth comb.
- Drying method – Pat your hair gently with a microfiber towel rather than rubbing it vigorously. Let your extensions air dry whenever possible. If you must blow dry, use cool or warm settings and always direct the airflow downward to prevent the bonds from lifting.
Avoiding common pitfalls
Even with careful maintenance, certain practices can significantly reduce the lifespan of your tape in extensions:
- Oil-based products – Keep oils and hair products away from the tape bonds. Oils break down the adhesive, causing extensions to slip prematurely. This includes natural oils from your scalp, so proper washing is essential.
- Swimming precautions – Chlorine and saltwater damage the extension hair and the adhesive. Swim caps or braids are a good choice if swimming is unavoidable. Rinse thoroughly with fresh water immediately afterwards and wash with a clarifying shampoo if possible.
- Chemical treatments – Avoid applying hair dye, perms, or relaxers to your tape-in extensions. If you want to change your hair colour, consult your stylist about safely colouring the extensions before applying or selecting pre-coloured extensions.
- Excessive tension – Tight hairstyles pull on the tape tabs and can cause discomfort and premature loosening. Opt for loose styles that don’t strain the bonds, and never sleep with wet extensions or in tight ponytails.
With consistent care and attention to these guidelines, your Tape In Hair Extensionscan maintain their beautiful appearance throughout their wear. Investing in proper products and maintenance routines for your extensions and natural hair pays dividends.
