Welcome to your comprehensive guide on how to apply tape-in hair extensions! Whether you're a seasoned pro or a beginner looking to enhance your hairstyle with volume and length, this guide will walk you through each step, ensuring that you achieve that seamless, natural look. Let's dive in!
Choosing the Right Extensions
Before we start the application process, it's crucial to choose high-quality hair extensions. For today's tutorial, I'm using hair from a brand called "whe," which stands for "yes she" in French. This brand, previously known as West label, offers Slavic origin, cuticle-aligned Remy hair. This means the extensions are less likely to tangle and can last up to a year with proper care. Each pack contains 50 grams of hair, and for today's application, I'll be using three packs totaling 150 grams.
Preparation
Step 1: Washing and Drying Your Hair
Begin by washing your hair with a clarifying shampoo to remove any residue that might interfere with the adhesives. Avoid using conditioner or any leave-in products post-shampoo. Once washed, thoroughly dry and straighten your hair to match the texture of the extensions.
Step 2: Planning Your Sections
Plan the placement of your extensions. For a natural look, use darker shades near your roots and blend lighter shades towards the ends. Remember, the placement is key to disguising the tape and achieving a flawless blend.
Application Process
Step 3: Sectioning Your Hair
Start by sectioning your hair. Use clips to separate the front from the back. This will help you manage the application easily. For those who part their hair on one side, make sure to mimic your usual style.
Step 4: Applying the First Extension
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Creating a Sandwich: Tape-in extensions are applied in "sandwiches," meaning one piece below and one piece above a thin layer of your natural hair.
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Begin at the lowest part of your hair near the nape of your neck. Place the sticky side of the tape under a thin slice of hair. Press another tape piece, sticky side down, on top of the hair slice.
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Ensure the tapes are pressed firmly together without any gaps.
Step 5: Diagonal Placement
For areas around your face or anywhere you might pull your hair back, consider applying the extensions diagonally. This method helps the extensions lay flat and remain hidden under your natural hair when pulled back into a ponytail.
Step 6: Mixing Colors
Don't hesitate to mix colors within the sandwiches for a more dynamic and dimensional color blend. Use darker shades on top closer to the roots and lighter shades on the bottom closer to the ends.
Step 7: Cutting the Tape Pieces
For finer areas such as around the temples or hairline, cut the tape pieces in half to create smaller sandwiches. This ensures a more natural look and better blend.
Step 8: Continue Sectioning and Applying
Move up your head, applying the extensions in rows. Remember to leave a small amount of space between each extension to allow your natural hair to move freely.
Step 9: Blending and Styling
Once all extensions are applied, use a brush to gently blend your hair with the extensions. If necessary, trim the ends to even out your hair length.
Post-Application Care
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Let the Adhesive Set: Avoid washing your hair for 24 to 48 hours after application. This allows the adhesive to fully bond.
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Regular Maintenance: Brush your extensions regularly to prevent tangling and use sulfate-free shampoo to keep them looking fresh.
Tape-in extensions are a fantastic way to enhance your hairstyle by adding length and volume. By following these steps, you'll ensure your new extensions blend seamlessly with your natural hair, giving you a beautiful, professional look right at home.
If you have any questions or need further tips on maintaining your extensions, don't hesitate to ask in the comments below. Check out my other videos for more hair care tips. Thanks for watching, and enjoy your fabulous new hair!