A Beginner's Guide to Applying Tape-In Hair Extensions

Tape-in extensions come in handy for anyone wanting to add some length, volume, or faux-highlights to their hair. These hair extensions are not permanent and are fairly easy to wear and remove. Moreover, the good news is that unlike most types of extensions available today, you don’t need heating tools to install tape-in hair extensions. With some patience and practice, you’ll quickly learn how to apply them at home without going to a hairstylist. 

Of course, if you’re installing tape-in hair extensions for the first time, you’ll have to first acquaint yourself with the steps to follow. It’s also a good idea to check out some pictures and videos of hair extensions before and after application. Before and after extensions visuals will give you an idea of how your hair will look with extensions applied. 

Read on to learn the steps for applying tape-in extensions:

Step 1: Shampoo Your Hair

First, it’s critical to clear your hair of any dirt, grease, or styling products before applying tape-in extensions. A tape-in extension will not stick properly if your hair isn’t clean. Just imagine you’re attending a party and suddenly the extensions get detached - your worst nightmare!

Also, installing tape-in human hair extensions without washing your hair can reduce your extensions’ lifespan because the wefts can come out when you try to attach them to unclean hair. Be sure to use a quality shampoo to remove any lingering buildup. If you’re using a conditioner, apply it only to the ends of your hair. Let your hair thoroughly dry before moving on to the next step.

Step 2: Part Your Hair From Bottom to Top

While you may want to section your hair differently, the best way is to start from the lower portion of your head. Using a good quality comb, you can then slowly progress in an upward direction by parting the hair in even portions. Begin with the first two inches above the base of your scalp, as it’s often easier to add on top of extensions which have already been placed. Next, tug half of the hair up at the crest and fasten it with a hair clip. Let the bottom half dangle downwards. 

Step 3: Remove a Very Thin Portion of Your Hair From the Non-Clipped Section

Use a comb to gather a thin section of the hair from the non-fastened portion, below the part line. You have to sandwich this narrow part between the two extensions - top and bottom. Remember that the strand of hair has to be paper-thin, so much so that your fingers can touch one another through the hair. Doing so will enable the adhesive tape on both extensions to stick together securely.

Step 4: Affix the Extensions

Finally, take the thin section of hair, raise it up a little bit, and then attach the bottom extension under the raised strand of hair. Now, gently run your fingers above the thin portion of hair to check whether you feel the tape's adhesiveness through the hair stand. In case you don’t feel the gumminess, remove some hair from the section. Once you feel the stickiness, continue with attaching the top extension. Press the extensions together for a few seconds so that they’re affixed securely.

Congratulations! You’ve successfully applied your best tape-in hair extensions. Remember that you may face some challenges when you first start out, but you’re sure to hone your skills with some practice. Don’t forget to take some tape-in extensions before and after pictures to see the difference in your hair!