Have you ever admired someone’s instantly voluminous hair and wondered how they achieved it so seamlessly? The secret might be tape-in hair extensions. These wefts are a favorite for their flat, comfortable fit and surprisingly simple application process. With a little know-how, you can achieve a natural, blended look that feels just like your own hair.
Getting Your Hair and Tools Ready
Before you begin, it’s essential to start with clean, completely dry hair. Avoid using heavy conditioners or oils at the roots, as they can prevent the tape from adhering properly. You’ll need a tail comb for sectioning, hair clips, and of course, your tape-in wefts. Having a mirror set up so you can see the back of your head is very helpful.
Creating a Clean Section for Application
Start by taking a horizontal section of hair where you want your first weft to sit, about an inch above your nape. This section should be the same width as the tape weft and about half an inch thick. Clip the rest of your hair out of the way. Carefully tease the roots of this section very lightly to create a bit of grip; this helps the extension sit securely and lays a foundation for a seamless blend.
The Simple Sandwich Technique
This is the core of the application. Take one tape weft and remove the protective backing from the tape. Position it sticky-side up, laying it flat against the root of your isolated section of natural hair. Press down firmly. Next, take the second, matching weft and remove its backing. Sandwich your natural hair by pressing the second weft, sticky-side down, directly onto the first one. Your own hair is now perfectly nestled between the two tapes.
Securing the Bond for Long-Lasting Wear
Once the two wefts are sandwiched together, press them firmly between your fingers, applying pressure from the root all the way to the tip of the tape. You want to ensure there is a strong, secure bond with no air bubbles. A helpful trick is to use a flat, cool hair straightener to clamp the bond for a few seconds. The heat-free pressure helps to activate the adhesive for a super strong hold.
Blending for a Natural Finish
After all your wefts are in, let your hair down. Gently brush through your hair with a soft-bristle brush to blend your natural hair with the extensions. You can style your hair as you normally would, using heat tools to curl or straighten for a perfectly unified look. The result is incredible volume and length that moves and feels beautifully natural.
With a bit of practice, applying tape-in extensions becomes a quick and easy way to refresh your style. Remember to take your time with the sections for the neatest result, and always follow the removal instructions provided with your extensions to keep your natural hair healthy and strong.