Are you looking to add more volume and length to your hair? Tape-in hair extensions are a fantastic choice, but they require a different maintenance routine than your natural hair.

Generally, tape-ins need more attention. If you don’t take care of them properly, the adhesive can slip, and the hair won’t last long.

 

  1. Washing Routine: The “Oil-Free” Rule

The most important rule is to keep your hair extensions oil-free and dirt-free. Accumulated oil can loosen the bond between your hair and the tape, causing them to slip.

  • For Oily Hair: Wash your hair at least every other day. This prevents scalp oils from breaking down the adhesive.
  • For Dry Hair: You can wash less frequently—about twice a week.

Pro Tip: Focus shampoo on the roots, but keep conditioner only on the mid-lengths and ends to avoid sliding bonds.

2. Sleeping Habits: Never Go to Bed With Wet Hair

Wet hair is more brittle than dry hair and breaks easily. Going to bed with wet hair is the fastest way to damage both your natural hair and the extensions.

  • Dry the Roots: Even if you let the ends air dry, always blow-dry the root area where the attachment is. This keeps moisture from breaking down the bond.
  • Avoid Matting: Sleeping with wet hair causes severe tangles and matting.

Upgrade Your Pillow

Silk is soft in nature and doesn’t offer resistance to your hair as cotton does.

  • Use Silk Pillow Covers: This reduces friction, meaning fewer tangles and less breakage.
  • Tie it Back: Use a soft scrunchie to tie hair back. If less hair gets tangled while you sleep, you’re going to have less damage.

3. Brushing: The Right Tools & Technique

You should brush your hair often to remove tangles in their early stages. This prevents excessive damage.

  • The Tool: Use a Mason Pearson or Wet Brush. These are gentle on the bonds.
  • The Technique: Start brushing from the bottom (ends) and work your way up. This prevents excessive pulling.
  • The “Hidden” Spot: Make sure to get underneath the back of your head, as tangling often builds up there from coats and scarves. Don’t forget to gently brush up to the root to keep the pieces from getting matted.

4. Heat Styling: Protect the Bond

As with your own hair, excessive heat will dry out the extension hair faster.

  • Watch the Tape: Keep curling irons and straighteners OFF the tape attachment. Heat makes the attachment “gunky,” which will either cause it to slide out or be painful to remove later.
  • Drying: You shouldn’t need a flat iron often; a blow dryer is sufficient. Rough-dry the hair about 95%, and then gently smooth it with a round brush.

Need Expert Help in NYC?

If you need help with tape-in hair extensions in NYC, proper application is key. You should schedule an appointment to visit Custom Hair By Catherine in person.

We are always available to suggest the best extensions available in New York for your specific hair type.

📅 Book Your Consultation:

  • Phone: 917-482-6493
  • Email: Customhairbycatherine@yahoo.com