The use of hair extensions is one of the most popular methods to add length and volume to one's natural hair. Among the different types, tape-in hair extensions are extremely popular because they look the most natural and are very easy to use. They also come in a wide range of styles, colors, and textures. If you want to drastically change your look in an instant, tape-in hair extensions are certainly an option you can try.
The Popularity of Tape-In Hair Extensions
Did you know that the earliest recorded use of hair extensions dates back to the time of Cleopatra? That's right – the queen herself was known for her famous blue locks, although she donned other colors as well.
However, the tape-in hair extensions as we know today didn't arrive until the 1950s. For the film Moby Dick, actor Gregory Peck had to look much older for his role. Wig specialists from England came up with the concept of using a special adhesive to attach grey strands to Peck's hair. These strands can easily be removed at the end of the day, and re-attached for the next filming session. Hence, the first tape-in hair extensions were born.
Needless to say, these extensions became wildly popular almost overnight. Hollywood actors and pop stars took to wearing them on a regular basis, both for work and otherwise. It didn't take long before the general public followed suit. Today, the global market for tape-in hair extensions is worth a whopping US$4 billion!
Pros and Cons of Tape-In Hair Extensions
As mentioned earlier, there are a number of reasons why tapes are very popular, especially compared to other types of hair extensions.
For starters, they are very realistic. When you install them properly, no one would even suspect that you are wearing extensions at all! The tape attaches very flatly but securely to the base of the hair, and the extensions will blend seamlessly with your real hair. Secondly, they cause the least damage to hair.
In fact, here at SEE WIG, our tape-in hair extensions are all made of remy human hair, so they are luxuriously soft, breathable, lightweight and invisible. As a result, they cause no damage at all. Tape-in hair extensions are also the easiest and fastest to attach among all permanent extensions. Removing them is even faster.
On the other hand, there are also a couple of small drawbacks. For one thing, they are not ideal if you like wearing your hair up. Another disadvantage is that it can be a bit of a challenge to attach without help.
How to Install and Remove Tape-In Hair Extensions?
Before installing your extensions, be sure to wash your hair thoroughly and dry it completely. However, don't use oils or heavy conditioners as this may prevent the tape from sticking.
When ready, take a thin, horizontal section of your hair at the nape, using clips or ties to get the rest of the hair up and out of the way. Take two pieces of extension, remove the tape backing on both, and use these to sandwich your section of hair in between. Press the tapes tightly together for a secure installation. Repeat this process, working your way up and around your head. Make sure you apply the extensions evenly to achieve a balanced result. It will take a bit of patience but the results will be worth it.
When it's time to remove the extensions, you will first need to soften the adhesive by applying a tape remover solution. Wait a few minutes, then slowly peel off the extensions from your hair. Take care not to pull too harshly as this might cause some damage.
How Long Do Tape-In Hair Extensions Last?
Tape-in hair extensions usually stay on for about 6 to 8 weeks. However, the maximum duration may vary depending on the quality of the product and the wearer's hair growth cycle. In general, extensions need to be taken out and reinstalled after 8 weeks of wear.
If you let them stay longer than this, the new growth of your natural hair will become visible as an unsightly gap between the extensions and your scalp. Not only that, but this gap will also make your hair more prone to tangling, possibly causing damage. To avoid these problems, make sure that you see to the timely removal and reinstallation of your tape-ins.
