Dreaming of long shiny locks packed with volume? Well, you’ve come to the right place.
Dreaming of long, luscious locks that turn heads wherever you go? Girl, you're not alone. Hair extensions have become the go-to solution for transforming hair from drab to fab in an instant. From celebrities strutting down the red carpet to everyday individuals looking to amp up their style, the versatility of extensions knows no bounds.
They give you the chance to wake up with a chic, choppy bob one morning, then hop to your late-night date with an Ariana Grande pony—they’re pretty exciting. Like with everything in the world of beauty, hair extensions come with a whole roster of possibilities and options.
But let's face it, hair extensions can be daunting. Clip-in, tape-in, weaves—there really is an abundance of installation methods and a vocabulary list that seems to have a language of its own—luckily, that's where we come in.
Welcome to extensions 101, a guide to navigating the world of hair extensions, specifically focusing on the ever-popular tape-in choice. Whether you're a seasoned extension enthusiast or a newbie lusting at the idea of longer, fuller hair, our mission is to simplify the process and empower you to make informed decisions about your hair journey.
We’re not haircare lovers, we are hair extension experts, and though there are plenty of questions to get through—you can trust us to give you all the lowdown that you’ll need.
Stuck wondering if those long locks really ARE worth it? Let’s find out the pros and cons to help you determine if they're the right choice for you. Consider this your 411 on getting those extra inches just right.
What are tape-in hair extensions?
First things first, before we start listing off all the good (and bad) qualities relating to extending your locks—you need to understand what they actually are.
Tape-in hair extensions are a popular method of adding length and volume to your natural hair. As the name suggests, these extensions are applied by taping or gluing them into place near the roots of your hair, aligning the extensions with your natural hair and securing them using adhesive tape. Unlike clip-in extensions that are temporary and removable, tape-in extensions are semi-permanent and can last several weeks with proper care.
Installation time: Approximately one and a half hours
Duration: Tape-in extensions typically last 6 to 8 weeks before requiring maintenance or removal.
Cost: The price range for tape-in extensions can vary depending on factors such as quality and quantity, with an average cost ranging from $200 to $500.
Types of hair used in tape-in hair extensions
When it comes to choosing the right hair for your extensions, understanding the different options available is one of the MOST important factors. Just like how you’d invest in luxury skincare, you need to ensure you invest in your hair, too. At The Lauren Ashtyn Collection, we prioritize quality and ethically-sourced hair to ensure a luxurious and natural look that lasts. All of our hair is guaranteed to be high-quality 100% European Remy human hair, so you can rest easy knowing your locks are better than the rest.
Looking for some extra info about all the types of hair? Here’s the lowdown…
Synthetic hair extensions
Synthetic hair offers a budget-friendly option for those looking to experiment with extensions. Made from plastic fibers, synthetic extensions are really only for occasional use, such as clip-ins for pro or your BNO. While synthetic hair cannot be heat-styled, advancements in technology have led to improved quality and appearance. We must mention that some synthetic extensions may be coated in silicone, which can lead to tangling and dullness over time—meaning a messy mane and a whole lot of dryness.
We’d recommend avoiding these, ESPECIALLY for tape-ins, so make sure to do your research and get the best quality hair.
Human hair extensions
Human hair extensions are available in a wide range of qualities, making it essential to understand the grading terminology. Remy or Cuticle Intact hair is often considered the gold standard in extensions—which is what all of our hair collections are made from (only the best for our queens). This high-quality human hair is either virgin or minimally processed, with the cuticle intact and aligned in the same direction. As a result, Remy hair maintains a soft, silky texture and blends seamlessly with your natural hair.
Human hair can be sourced from various parts of the world, with countries like China and India being major producers. Each type of human hair offers unique characteristics, and our expert stylists can help you find the perfect match for your hair type and desired style.
Understanding hair grading
Natural hair: Refers to human hair that may be processed or dyed, but likely not to the same quality as Remy hair.
Remy hair: The real MVP is always Remy hair. Considered the pinnacle of hair extensions, Remy hair is carefully selected to ensure the cuticle remains intact and aligned. This results in a soft, silky texture that maintains its quality over time.
Single-drawn: This grading indicates that the difference in strand length is minimal, ensuring more uniform extensions.
Double-drawn: A step up from single-drawn, double-drawn strands are uniform throughout, minimizing thinning at the bottom for a fuller look.
At The Lauren Ashtyn Collection, we are committed to providing high-quality extensions that meet the highest standards of craftsmanship and ethics. Whether you opt for tape-in or clip-in extensions, you can trust that our products are made to last.
Tape-in hair extensions tips and tricks
Achieving a flawless application and maintaining your tape-in extensions requires some insider knowledge. Here are a few tips and tricks to help you get the most out of your extensions:
- Ensure your hair is clean and free of any product buildup before installation.
- Use a clarifying shampoo to remove any residue that could affect the adhesive.
- Avoid using oil-based hair products near the roots, as they can cause the tape to slip.
- Schedule regular maintenance appointments to reposition and replace any loose extensions.
How to prolong your tape-in hair extensions
Maximizing the lifespan of your tape-in extensions is very important if you want your purse strings to stay closed whilst making the most out of your investment. We’ve rounded up a few simple tips if you do opt for tape-ins to ensure you’re looking after them the best as can be.
- Be gentle when brushing and styling your extensions to prevent unnecessary damage.
- Use sulfate-free and alcohol-free hair products to maintain the integrity of the adhesive.
- Avoid excessive heat styling, as high temperatures can weaken the adhesive bond.
- Invest in a silk or satin pillowcase to minimize friction and prevent tangling while you sleep.
We’ve got The Ultimate Bundle available for those who are looking to not just treat yourself, but treat your hair.
We’ve concocted a collection of everything you need to shampoo, condition, protect, and style your tape in human hair extensions—because all of our hair is natural human hair, there are products that can be used on your extensions as well as your natural hair.
The pros of tape-in hair extensions
Now, it’s what everyone has been waiting for. What are the pros and cons of using tape-in hair extensions?
Seamless blending: One of the biggest advantages of tape-in extensions is their ability to blend seamlessly with your natural hair, creating a flawless, undetectable finish.
Longevity: With proper care and maintenance, tape-in extensions can last anywhere from 6 to 8 weeks, offering long-term volume and length without the need for frequent replacements.
Styling versatility: From sleek ponytails to voluminous curls, tape-in extensions allow for endless styling possibilities, enhancing your overall look effortlessly. They’re not only invisible tape in extensions when integrated into your style, but they’re virtually impossible to feel (unless you try).
Low maintenance: Once installed, tape-in extensions require minimal maintenance, allowing you to enjoy your new look without added stress.
Confidence boost: There's no denying the transformative power of hair. With tape-in extensions, you can enjoy a boost in confidence as you flaunt your newfound length and volume, and swish those locks all day long.
The cons of tape-in hair extensions
It wouldn’t be right if we weren’t sharing some real home truths, so here is a deep dive into the negatives when it comes to those semi-permanent hair extensions.
Installation time: Unlike clip-in extensions that can be easily applied at home, tape-in extensions require professional installation, which can be time-consuming and expensive.
The proper method of inserting these extensions can take hours (literally)—so if you’re a high-maintenance girlie already, get ready for it to be ramped up tenfold.
Potential damage: Improper installation with an unqualified stylist or neglecting proper maintenance can lead to damage to your natural hair. This includes thinning, breaking, or snapping of your real hair—not ideal.
Maintenance requirements: While tape-in extensions are relatively low maintenance, regular maintenance appointments are necessary to ensure they remain secure and in good condition. You need to constantly book in with refit sessions to make sure that your hair is in good standing; but once you’ve already purchased the hair, it can be used for a refit a number of times.
Cost considerations: Quality tape-in extensions can be costly (especially Remy hair), especially when factoring in the initial installation and ongoing maintenance appointments—so save, save, save and you’ll always get the best.
Compatibility issues: The sad reality is, that tape-in extensions may not be suitable for all hair types—particularly those with fine or fragile hair. Weighing down weak hair can cause additional stress on the hair follicles, so make sure to have a consultation with a stylist first, to check that you’re suitable.
How long do tape-in extensions last?
After 6–8 weeks, it’s time for either a removal or maintenance of your hair extensions. When it's time to remove your tape-in extensions, you need to do it safely to prevent damage to your natural hair.
Here are some expert tips for seamless removal (but please, don’t do it at home).
- Use a professional adhesive remover to dissolve the tape bonds without causing damage to your hair.
- Gently massage the remover into the tape bonds and allow it to sit for a few minutes to loosen the adhesive.
- Carefully peel the extensions away from your natural hair, taking care not to tug or pull on the hair.
Maintenance dos and don'ts
Preserving the longevity of your tape-in extensions requires proper maintenance and refits after 6–8 weeks.
Here’s how you can prevent any extra trips to the salon and save yourself a buck or two.
- Brush your extensions regularly to prevent tangling and matting and make sure to do it with a special bristled brush to prevent static.
- Don't use heat styling tools directly on the adhesive bonds, as high temperatures can weaken the bond and cause the extensions to slip—and in effect, melt the glue onto your natural hair.
- Please, please make sure to schedule regular maintenance appointments with your stylist to reposition and replace any loose extensions. We don’t want thinning on one side, and long lustrous hair on the next.
Hair extensions or not—it’s all just an extension of your beauty anyway
If you're not quite ready to take the plunge into the tape-in semi-permanent hair extensions, fear not, there’s always an option for you. At The Lauren Ashtyn Collection, we understand that commitment levels vary, which is why we offer a luxurious range of clip-in extensions and hair toppers.
Not everything needs to be OTT—and with clip-ins, you can enjoy the versatility of extensions without any long-term maintenance commitments. Simply clip them in when you want added length and volume, and remove them at the end of the day—it's that easy.
Here’s the kicker: whether you opt for tape-ins or clip-ins, the real beauty lies in how extensions can transform not just your appearance, but your confidence as well. They're not just about adding inches to your mane—they're about embracing your inner self and feeling good.
So go ahead and indulge in those long, luscious locks you've been dreaming of. Nothing is ever permanent, and that’s the best bit about it.
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