20 Feb
Tape-In Hair Extension Care Guide
You’re all done with the tape-in hair extension installation and you’re ready to hit the town with a new look. Not so fast, there’s one more important step that you should always do before you walk out of the salon— remember the aftercare instructions.
Even if you (or your client, if you’re a stylist) are a long-time hair extension wearer, this is incredibly important. You’ve just invested significant time and money in hair extensions; the last thing you want is early slippage. Follow these care instructions for long-lasting, great-looking tape-in hair extensions.
Washing and Conditioning Tape-In Hair Extensions
Your tape-in hair extensions should always be washed and conditioned with sulfate-free products (we recommend our Remy Care™ products). Any products containing sulfates can dry up the hair extensions. Conditioner should be applied only at the mid-shaft through the ends.
If any oils or conditioners are placed on the tape or scalp, they will weigh down the extensions, just as they would your natural hair. The tape will also slip; after all, we do use an oil-based remover to remove tape-ins. T
he same rule goes for hair masks, leave-in conditioners, hair oils, serums, and any other moisturizing treatments. Apply a hair mask at least once a month to help keep the hair moisturized and preserve its shine.
Brushing
Both natural hair and hair extensions are weakest when wet. To avoid breakage, apply a detangler, leave-in conditioner, or oil to the hair before brushing. Always use a hair extension brush to avoid tugging on the tape. The proper way to brush is to start from the bottom, working your way up.
If you start from top to bottom, you will cause tangles and breakage, just like with your natural hair. Also, remember to pat dry the hair extensions when using a towel. Rubbing a towel back and forth can cause a matted mess because of the increased friction.
Whenever possible, blow dryers should be avoided; leave the extensions to air dry. Constant heat will damage the hair faster.
Styling
Ponytails, buns, braids, or any up-dos should be loose. Tight hair styles means constant pulling at the tape, and guess what that does? Yup, you guessed it: it pulls the hair extension connection over time and can lead to serious slippage. Before bedtime, hair extensions should be styled as well.
Placing hair extensions in a loose braid or ponytail and using a head wrap or headscarf will help protect the hair from tangles.
Proper Use of Heat
When heat is used to curl, straighten, or dry hair extensions, a heat protectant should always be used. Always follow the directions on the bottle to make sure you use the product properly.
One tip we do want to give is this: never apply a heat protectant right before applying the heat tool. Always wait a minute or two for the hair to absorb the product. That way you’re not frying the hair due to the wetness of a fresh product application. If you overuse heat tools on your hair extensions, it could fry them, just as it would your natural hair. Less heat is always better.
Want to go the extra mile? Print these aftercare tips and give them to your client as a go-to reference, or bring them in to reference yourself so you can ask for the right products and care tips.
Have any aftercare questions as a stylist or client? Please ask! We always welcome your questions and concerns. Ready to get started with tape-ins? Check out our full collection of bold styles and the best lengths & colors by clicking here!
RELATED:
