Summarised Points:
- Overall Lifespan: High-quality tape in extensions, especially those made from Remy human hair, can last 6 months to 3 years, depending on maintenance practices, lifestyle, and frequency of wear.
- Maintenance Frequency: Tape in hair extensions last 6–8 weeks before needing repositioning or reinstallation. As your natural hair grows, the tapes move further away from your scalp, eventually requiring a refit to maintain a natural-looking result.
- How to Know When Your Extensions Need Refitting: Your stylist will give you a personalised schedule. However, extensions should be refitted if adhesive lifting is noticeable, an extension has fallen out, or any of the tape attachment points have been damaged.
- Care Tips: Use sulfate-free products to wash, brush gently from ends to roots, avoid heat, and schedule regular salon check-ups to maintain their beauty and longevity.
By following the expert maintenance tips outlined below and recognising the signs for reapplication, you can enjoy long-lasting, flawless tape extensions. Keep reading for a detailed guide on maintaining and maximising the lifespan of your tapes!
What Are Tape In Extensions?
Tape in extensions are a semi-permanent hair extension method applied to natural hair using thin, transparent strips with a medical-grade adhesive. They lie flat against the scalp, blending seamlessly with your hair, creating a natural and voluminous look. These extensions come in two main types:
- Remy Human Hair Extensions: These are made from 100% human hair with the cuticle intact, ensuring a natural look, long lifespan, and the ability to style with heat or dye as you would with your natural hair.
- Synthetic Hair Extensions: While more affordable, synthetic options lack the versatility, longevity, and natural look of their human hair alternative.
How Long Do Tape In Extensions Last?
The lifespan of tape in extensions can vary based on multiple factors, including quality, maintenance, hair growth and how often you wear them. Here’s what you can expect:
- Before Reapplication: Tape in extensions last 6–8 weeks before they must be removed and reinstalled. As your natural hair grows, the extensions move away from the scalp, requiring repositioning, also known as a ‘reapplication’ or ‘refit’.
- Overall Lifespan: High-quality tape in extensions, especially those made of Remy human hair, can last up to 3 years with proper care, depending on how they’re cared for and how often they’re worn. However, the adhesive tape will need to be replaced with each refit.
Factors That Affect the Longevity of Tape In Extensions
- Quality of the Extensions: Extensions made from 100% Remy human hair last longer and maintain their natural appearance compared to synthetic alternatives.
- Maintenance Practices: Proper washing, styling, and brushing techniques can significantly extend the lifespan of your extensions.
- Hair Growth Rate: Faster hair growth means more frequent adjustments and reapplications.
- Lifestyle: Activities like swimming, frequent use of heat styling tools, or exposure to harsh chemicals can reduce the lifespan of your extensions.
3 Signs It’s Time to Replace or Reapply Your Tape In Extensions
- Loose or Slipping Extensions: Natural hair growth causes the adhesive to move away from the scalp, leading to looseness and, eventually, visible tapes.
- Damaged or Frayed Tapes: Exposure to heat, oils, alcohol-based products or harsh chemicals can weaken the adhesive, causing tapes to fray.
- Shedding or Matting: Excessive tangling or hair loss from the extensions may indicate it’s time for replacement or reapplication.
Maintenance Tips to Extend the Lifespan of Tape In Extensions
1. Washing Your Extensions
- First Wash: Wait 24–48 hours after application to allow the adhesive to bond securely.
- Frequency: Reduce your washing frequency, ideally to twice a week, to keep the extensions and tape attachment points in optimal condition. Extensions cannot regenerate like your natural hair, so each additional wash or styling session can gradually shorten their overall lifespan.
- Shampoo and Conditioner: Use sulfate-free, alcohol-free, and oil-free shampoo and conditioner to keep extensions moisturised and prevent adhesive weakening.
- Technique: Gently wash your hair from roots to ends without scrubbing or tangling the tapes.
2. Brushing and Detangling
- Use a soft-bristle brush or a loop brush designed for extensions.
- Brush at least twice a day, starting from the ends and working your way up to avoid tugging on the tapes.
- Never brush wet extensions to prevent breakage.
Read our guide on how to brush hair extensions like a pro for more information.
3. Heat Styling
- Apply a heat protectant spray before using hot tools.
- Avoid direct heat on the tape areas, as it can weaken the adhesive over time.
- Use low heat settings for curling or straightening to minimise damage.
4. Avoiding Chemical Damage
- Stay away from products containing sulfates, alcohols, or oils, as they can deteriorate the adhesive.
- Protect your extensions while swimming by wearing a swim cap or tying your hair up.
- Rinse and condition both your extensions and natural hair after exposure to chlorine or salt water.
Reapplication and Maintenance
For optimal results, visit a professional stylist every 6–8 weeks for reapplication. During this process, the tapes are removed, cleaned, and replaced to ensure a secure fit and maintain a seamless look..
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can Tape In Extensions Be Reused?
Yes, high-quality tape-in extensions can be reused up to four times with proper care. The adhesive strips must be replaced, and the hair thoroughly washed and detangled before each reapplication.
2. Do Tape-In Extensions Damage Hair?
When applied and removed correctly, tape in extensions are gentle on natural hair. However, improper application or neglect can cause tension and breakage.
3. Can I Dye or Heat Style Tape In Extensions?
Remy human hair extensions can be dyed or styled with heat, but synthetic options cannot. Always use a heat protectant and avoid over-styling to keep them in top condition.
4. How Do I Remove Tape In Extensions?
To remove tape extensions, a specialised adhesive remover is used to dissolve the tape bond. Never pull or tug at the tape attachment points without a removal solution designed for your specific tapes, as doing so can lead to damage and breakage of both the extensions and your natural hair.
5. Are Tape In Extensions Suitable for All Hair Types?
Yes, tape in extensions work well for most hair types, including straight, wavy, and curly textures. Consult with a stylist to ensure the best match for your hair.
6. How Much Do Tape In Extensions Cost?
The cost can range from £150 to £1400, depending on the quality, length, and application fees.
