Putting in tape-in hair extensions might sound hard at first, but it’s something you can definitely learn to do at home with a little help. Whether you want longer hair for a special occasion or more volume for fun, this guide will walk you through each step in a simple and clear way.
This process usually takes 60 to 90 minutes and costs about $150 to $300 if you do it yourself. If it's your first time, go slow and don't worry if it takes longer. You'll get better with practice. In the next section, we’ll cover exactly what you’ll need to get started
Quality of Materials
Tools and Materials You’ll Need
Here’s what you need before you start:
- Tape-in Hair Extensions (40–60 pieces): Choose 100% human hair so it looks real and lasts longer. Human hair blends better, can be styled with heat, and reused multiple times. The more natural it looks, the more confident you’ll feel.
- Replacement Tape Tabs: These are sticky strips you’ll need to reapply extensions later. It’s always good to have extras on hand in case any tape loses its stick.
- Hair Extension Remover: This helps take off the extensions safely. It usually comes as an oil-based spray that dissolves the glue without damaging your own hair. You will need this in case you didn’t properly attach your extension and want to remove it promptly and reattach it correctly.
- Rat-Tail Comb: This long, skinny comb helps you make super neat partings in your hair. Clean sections make the extensions look natural.
- Hair Clips: Use them to hold up the hair you’re not working on. Sectioning is key to keeping the process smooth and organized.
- Hand Mirror: Helps you see the back of your head. This is a must if you're doing it by yourself.
- Extension Brush or Wide-Tooth Comb: Special brushes or wide combs won’t pull at your tape-ins. Regular brushes can tug and loosen them.
- Hair Straightener (Optional): Straightening your natural hair before and after helps everything blend better. You can also curl the final look for added bounce.
Having everything ready makes the whole process easier and more fun. Now let's get into the setup!
Preparation Before You Start
Getting your tape-in extensions right starts with solid preparation. If you take a few extra minutes to set things up properly, the rest of the process will go much smoother, and the results will look much more natural.
Before putting in the extensions, do this checklist:
- Match the Extensions: Make sure your extensions match your hair color and texture. Check the color in natural light.
- Wash Your Hair: Use only shampoo. Skip the conditioner so the tape sticks better. Don’t use any styling products either.
- Dry It Fully: Your hair needs to be completely dry. Even a little dampness can make the tape slip.
- Straighten If Needed: Straight hair is easier to part and helps the tape sit flat.
- Check Hair Length: Your natural hair should be at least 3 to 4 inches long. That’s enough to hold the tape and cover the tabs.
- Plan Where to Place the Extensions: Think about where you want more volume or length. You might want more in the back or sides.
- Have All Tools Ready: Set everything out in front of your mirror so you’re not reaching or searching during the process.
Step-by-Step: How to Put in Tape-in Extensions
Step 1: Clip Up the Top
Use your rat-tail comb to make a straight part across your head, from ear to ear. Clip all the hair above that line up and out of the way. That top hair will later hide the extension tapes.
Step 2: Start at the Bottom
Go to the very bottom part of your hair, near your neck. Make a straight line using your comb. Clip the rest of your hair up. This is your first row.
Step 3: Take a Thin Section
From the first row, take a small slice of hair. It should be thin like paper. You should almost see through it. That’s how thin it needs to be.
Step 4: Stick One Tape Under the Hair
Peel the backing off one tape extension. Stick it under that thin slice of hair, close to your roots but not touching your scalp. Leave about a quarter inch of space.
Step 5: Sandwich With Another Tape
Take another tape and press it on top of the same hair, lining it up with the bottom tape. Press together firmly with your fingers. Make sure both tapes stick to each other with your hair in the middle.
Step 6: Continue Along the Row
Leave a little space and do the next one. Work your way across the row, placing one pair at a time. Don’t crowd them too close.
Step 7: Make a New Row
Let down some hair from the clipped section. Make another straight part above the last row and repeat the process. Keep going until you reach the top of your ears.
Step 8: Add to the Sides
If you want volume on the sides, add a few near your temples. Make sure they are at least an inch away from your face so they stay hidden.
Step 9: Check and Style
Let down the rest of your hair. Use your mirror to check all angles. Brush gently and style as you like. You did it!
Common Problems and Fixes
The following section explains typical tape-in extension issues together with their causes and provides guidance on prevention and correction.
- Tapes Falling Out: Your hair might have been too oily or damp. Make sure it’s super clean and dry next time. You can also remove and reapply with new tape.
- Tapes Showing: Maybe they’re too high or not enough hair is covering them. Try moving them lower or adjusting your style.
- Tapes Feel Tight or Hurt: You may have put them too close to your scalp. Leave a little space next time.
- Hair Looks Uneven: If one side has more extensions than the other, move or add pieces until it looks balanced.
- Hair Tangles Near the Tapes: Brush gently every day. Sleep with your hair in a loose braid or ponytail. Never sleep with wet hair.
The essential approach involves moving at a slow pace while being delicate with your hair treatment.
Maintenance and Aftercare
To get the most out of your tape-in extensions, aftercare is key. A little extra attention goes a long way in keeping them looking fresh and helping them last longer.
First 2 Days
Don’t wash your hair and avoid heat tools, swimming, or sweating a lot. The extensions are vulnerable at this point; give the adhesive time to fully set.
Daily Care
Brush gently twice a day with a soft brush. Use a gentle extension brush, starting at the ends and working up. Don’t tug at the roots.
To avoid physical damage or discomfort and tangling, keep your hair tied in a loose braid or ponytail at night. Sleeping on a silk pillowcase can reduce friction and breakage.
Minimize the usage of heat styling tools, but if you still need to use them, always use heat tools only below the tape. Don’t forget to apply heat protectant, it works for both your extensions and natural hair.
Washing Your Hair
Use gentle sulfate-free shampoo and apply conditioner only from mid-lengths to ends. Avoid the tape area. Wash your scalp with fingertips, avoiding harsh rubbing with nails as it weakens the grip and damages your scalp. Pat dry with a towel and dry tapes in cool air.
Longevity of Your Tape-Ins
The longevity of your tape-in extensions depends on several factors, including how well you care for them and your natural hair's growth rate. On average, tape-in extensions can last 6-8 weeks before needing to be reapplied, as your natural hair will have grown enough to cause the adhesive to loosen. When your tape-ins start to feel loose or start to show noticeable gaps, it’s time to consider reapplication.
When and How to Reapply You Tape-In Extensions
With proper care, you can reuse your tape-ins for up to 2-3 applications, depending on the quality of the extensions and how well they are maintained.
To reapply tape-in extensions, start by removing the old extensions using a tape-in remover or oil-based solution, then clean both the extensions and your natural hair. Once dry, apply fresh adhesive tape to the extensions, ensuring it's securely attached. Section your hair, sandwich the extensions between your natural hair, and press firmly to secure them in place. Finish by styling as desired and brushing gently to prevent tangling. Ensure the tape is dry and free of oil to maintain a strong bond for long-lasting wear.
- Begin by brushing your natural hair with care with a wide-tooth comb to eliminate any remaining tangles.
- Apply a leave-in conditioner to maintain hair softness and hydration.
- Apply a lightweight hair oil to your scalp when it feels tight or dry because this will help boost circulation.
- Avoid applying heat right away. Your hair needs rest before you can style it again. Before using heat styling tools, you should apply a heat protectant to your hair.
- The hair loses its volume and shape regardless of your styling efforts.
The small steps you take after each removal session benefit both your hair and extensions by extending their lifespan while maintaining their optimal condition
Final Thoughts
Doing your own tape-in extensions takes time and care, but it's totally doable. If you follow these steps, you’ll have fuller, longer hair without needing to visit a salon.
But we get it – not everyone has the time for tape-ins. That’s why so many love our Thathair Halo Extensions. You just place them on your head like a headband, blend with your own hair, and you’re done. No glue, no damage, and you can take them off anytime.
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Josef Mohamed is a Content Marketer and Web Designer with over 6 years of experience.He brings a wealth of knowledge to his work, making him a reliable source for readers interested in practical insights about beauty. His writing style is straightforward, aiming to provide real facts and avoid common myths in the beauty industry.