How to Install Tape-Ins on Natural Hair: A Step-by-Step DIY Guide

How to Install Tape-Ins on Natural Hair: A Step-by-Step DIY Guide

Key Takeaways: Take your time and don’t forget to prep your hair. Consider what styles you’ll wear for the best placement and sandwich the tapes between pieces of your natural hair for a natural look.

Tape-in hair extensions have become a favorite for many, adding length, volume and versatility. 

In this step-by-step guide you’ll discover how to prepare your hair for installation; how to place and fix the tapes, preventing tension and creating a secure bond; and how to safely remove the tapes with extension-safe oil or alcohol-based remover without causing breakage or damage to the natural hair.

Hair Prep Essential: Clarifying, Deep Conditioning, and Silk Pressing or Blow-Dying

Sleek extensions start with a blank canvas:

  1. Wash your hair with a clarifying shampoo to remove a buildup of oils and styling products.  

  2. Apply a deep conditioner to the length and ends of your hair, avoiding the roots.

  3. Rinse thoroughly and allow your hair to dry completely before installing the extensions.

  4. Blow-dry or silk press your hair straight to create a smooth, dry base so the tape can sit flat against your natural hair.

Mapping Your Head: Sectioning Techniques for Maximum Coverage and Ponytail Flexibility

How you section your hair can make our break the look you hope to achieve. For a professional-looking installation, start sectioning from your nape and work upwards in horizontal sections, leaving enough natural hair underneath each to completely conceal the tapes. Avoid placing the extensions directly on the hairline, around the ears or too close to your scalp.

If you’re wanting to create a flexible ponytail, don’t place the extensions too close together or too low as they’ll become visible when the hair is pulled up.

Keep each section clean, even and roughly the same width as the tape-in weft. Your sections shouldn’t be too thick, as the adhesive may not bond properly, however, too thin a section can create excessive tension.

Step-by-Step Sandwich Method for Secure Placement

Placing your tape-ins securely is a must and the sandwich method ensures this. Follow these simple steps on how to install tape-ins on natural hair for optimal results:

  • Step 1: Using a tail comb, make a straight horizontal parting to create your section. 

  • Step 2: Remove the protective backing from the tape-in.

  • Step 3: Place the tape-in underneath the selected section and leave a small gap from the scalp.

  • Step 4: Evenly distribute the natural hair and gently lower it onto the exposed adhesive. 

  • Step 5: Remove the backing from another tape-in and apply it directly over the first piece, sandwiching the natural hair between both extensions.

  • Step 6: Press the two pieces together along the entire strip firmly with your fingers.

  • Step 7: Repeat the process upward in neat, staggered rows until complete. 

  • Step 8: Once finished, brush your hair gently, starting at the ends and working upwards.

Key Mistakes That Cause Slipping, Damage, or Tension Spots

Avoid these common mistakes and make installing tape-ins stress free:

  • Applying tape-ins to oily or product-coated hair.

  • Placing extensions too close to the scalp.

  • Making sections too thick or too thin.

  • Installing too many pieces in one area.

  • Fitting extensions too tightly.

  • Attaching extensions directly to damaged, weak or heavily broken areas of natural hair.

  • Not spacing hair properly to maintain healthy hair underneath.

Safe Removal Process Using Oil/Alcohol-Based Removers Without Pulling Strands

When you’re ready to remove your tape-ins refrain from pulling or peeling them out as this can break your natural hair. Instead use an oil or alcohol-based tape-in extension remover and apply it directly to the adhesive. Leave it to penetrate before gently separating the extension pieces. Add more remover if there is resistance.

Once successfully removed, carefully comb out any remaining adhesive. If you plan on using the extensions again, wash them thoroughly to remove any residue.

FAQs

How Long do Tape-In Extensions Typically Last?

Tape-ins should be moved or reapplied every several weeks, depending on the hair growth, installation quality, and maintenance.

Can Tape-Ins Damage Natural Hair?

Tape-ins may cause damage if they are installed incorrectly, are too heavy, or are removed by pulling. Protect your natural hair with correct sectioning, suitable extension weight and gentle removal.

 

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