You have invested in tape-in hair extensions to get that dream volume and length. But the truth is, tape-ins are not “set it and forget it.”

While they are a fantastic method for seamless length, they require a specific maintenance routine. If you treat them exactly like your natural hair, they might slip, slide, or become matted within weeks.

The biggest enemy of tape-in extensions? Oil and Friction.

If you want to protect your investment and keep your hair looking salon-fresh for months, you need to follow these expert care rules.

1. The Wash Routine: Managing Oil

The number one reason tape-ins slip out prematurely is oil buildup. The adhesive on the tape is strong, but oil (sebum) acts as a solvent that dissolves the bond.

  • For Oily Hair: You must wash your hair frequently, at least every other day. If you let oil sit on your scalp, it will seep into the tape tabs and loosen them.
  • For Dry Hair: You can wash less frequently, perhaps once or twice a week.

The Golden Rule: Keep the conditioner and oils away from the roots. Only apply conditioner from the mid-shaft down to the ends.

2. Never Sleep on Wet Hair

This is a non-negotiable rule. Wet hair is weak hair.

Going to bed with damp roots does two things:

  1. Breaks the Bond: Trapped moisture at the root can break down the adhesive.
  2. Causes Matting: Wet hair creates friction, leading to severe tangles and matting while you toss and turn.

The Fix: Always blow-dry your hair before bed. At the very least, ensure the roots and tape attachments are 100% dry. Use your dryer on a medium setting to remove moisture from the bonds without melting them.

3. Upgrade Your Pillowcase

Standard cotton pillowcases act like Velcro for your hair. The friction causes the hair cuticles to roughen up, leading to tangles and dryness.

Switch to a Silk or Satin pillowcase.

  • Why? Silk allows your hair to glide smoothly while you sleep.
  • Result: Less friction means fewer tangles in the morning and less stress on the tape tabs.

Pro Tip: Tie your hair back in a loose low pony or braid using a soft scrunchie to further prevent tangling.

4. The Right Brushing Tools

Not all brushes are created equal. Using a standard comb on tape-ins can rip them right out.

You need a brush specifically designed for extensions, like a Mason Pearson or a Wet Brush. These brushes have flexible bristles that glide over the tape tabs rather than catching on them.

Crucial Spot: Don’t forget to brush underneath the back of your head (the nape of the neck). This is where tangles build up from scarves and coats. Brush all the way to the root gently to prevent “dreadlocking” between the tapes.

5. Brushing Technique: Bottom to Top

Patience is key here. Never rip a brush through your hair from the root down.

  1. Start brushing at the very bottom ends of your hair.
  2. Hold the hair mid-shaft to support the bond (so you aren’t pulling on your scalp).
  3. Slowly work your way up to the roots.

This method prevents excessive pulling and protects both your natural hair and the extension wefts.

6. Heat Styling: Use Caution

You can curl and straighten your extensions, but you must respect the bond.

  • Avoid the Roots: Never place a flat iron or curling wand directly on the tape tabs. The heat will melt the adhesive, making it “gunky.” This causes the extensions to slide out and leaves a sticky residue that is painful to remove.
  • Use Ceramic Tools: Ceramic irons distribute heat more evenly.
  • Smooth Finish: You generally don’t need to flat iron the whole head. Rough dry your hair 95%, then use a round brush and blow dryer to smooth the cuticle.

Lifecycle and Maintenance

If you follow these steps, high-quality tape-in extensions can last around 6-9 months.

However, because your natural hair grows, the extensions will move down away from the scalp. You will need to visit the salon every 6 to 8 weeks for maintenance. During this appointment, we remove the extensions, clean the old tape, apply new tape, and move them back up to the root.

Need Expert Help in NYC?

If your extensions are slipping, matting, or you are just ready for a new set, don’t try to fix it at home.

Custom Hair By Catherine offers the best tape-in hair extensions in NYC with personalized color matching and expert application.

Schedule Your Appointment Today:

  • Phone: 917.482.6493
  • Email: Customhairbycatherine@yahoo.com