Tape-in Extensions FAQ
Do tape hair extensions damage your hair?
Not unless you treat them poorly. Do not tug or pull your tape extensions. Always wash and brush your hair extensions with care and patience. When removing your tape extensions, always use a special tape extension removing solvent.
Brushing is the most important. The best brush is our golden brush as the special bristles are designed to protect your extensions from tangled hair at the the base.
Can I use tape in extensions on thin and brittle hair?
Yes you can. As with any hair extensions, care should be taken when attaching and removing. Tape-in extensions are very reliable when attached properly following the instructions which come with each packet of hair extensions. They are a great way to add volume and length if you have naturally brittle and thin hair.
How many tape extensions do I need?
- 5 to 10 strands for color effects and highlights
- 15 to 20 strands to add volume/for thickening the hair
- 30 to 40 strands to add length for a full head of hair
The distance to your roots should always remain the same (approx. 1-2 mm). When gluing the strands in, it is very important that only the directly adjacent hairs are glued onto the top side of the tape at first. The underside must be adhered with the same distance to the roots (symmetrical) and also only to the adjacent hair.
How long do tape extensions last and how many times can you reuse them?
Our tape extensions generally last for up to 3 months. This time may differ from person to person depending on how fast your hair grows and how comfortable you feel as the tapes grow out (and the distance between the tapes and your scalp). After about 3 months, you will usually need to replace with new glue or new tape. You may also need to replace the hair strands depending on how fresh you want the hair extensions to look. The below factors may impact the longevity of your extensions:
1. External Factors
There are many external factors which can influence how long your tape extensions last. The number of times you can reuse your tape extensions will depend on how well you care for them and if you protect your hair extensions from potential damage. Such things can include, excessive hair heating/straightening/blow-drying, coloring, bleaching, salt water and UV rays.
2. Hair Quality
The quality of the tape extensions will also impact how long they last and how many times you can reuse them. For our Pro Deluxe line, expect around 3 uses. On the other hand, you can expect to get 10-20 uses from our Premium Tape Extensions.
3. PU damage
A thin strip of PU is used at the top part of the hair extension which is how the tape is attached to the hair strands. Care needs to be taken every time you dissolve the glue when taking out and re-attaching the tape extensions so as to not damage the PU. This is why we recommed using our tape removal solution as it's been formulated with this in mind.
How do I wash my hair with tape extensions in?
Before washing your hair, gently run your fingers through your hair to disentangle any small knots. You can also use a soft brush to gently brush your hair. If you've just attached your tape in extensions, then wait at least 24 hours before your first hair wash or brush to allow the adhesive to fully set.
- Wash your hair extensions in lukewarm water. You don't want to use scalding hot water.
- Never flip your hair upside down to wash it as this can cause further tangling.
- Use a mild, alcohol-free shampoo, and using your fingers like a comb, streak the shampoo through your hair. Don't rub or massage vigorously.
- Thoroughly rinse the shampoo out using the shower head pressure to continue this motion of acting like a comb, to wash out the product.
- After washing out the shampoo, apply a conditioner to the ends of your hair and leave to sit for a minute before washing out.
- Wash your hair extensions no more than three times a week.
- Always use alcohol-free products diluted with water.
How do I brush my tape-in extensions?
- Use a special hair extensions brush to gently brush your hair with one hand on your scalp so you know you aren't pulling too much.
- Never use a comb or brush on wet hair as this can be too aggressive.
- Do not brush freshly attached tape in extensions (wait at least 24 hours).
How to attach tape in extensions?
Before attaching your tape extensions, wash your hair thoroughly. Tape in extensions are attached to your natural hair using a process called the 'sandwich method.' This involves using a ceramic plated heating iron to sandwich the tape with the PU at the top, and to set the glue in order to secure to your hair. Please refer to our comprehensive guide and video tutorial on how to apply tape in extensions for further information.
How to remove tape in extensions and replace the tapes?
To remove your tape extensions without damaging them, we recommend using our Rubin Extensions Tape-in Hair Extensions Remover. Apply the solution to the base of the tape where your extensions are attached. You want the solution to dissolve the glue between the tape and the PU which has been sandwiched together. Leave the solution to sit for a few minutes so it can dissolve the adhesive. Slowly peel back the tapes one by one.
Before applying new glue, it's very important to first remove the old glue completely, otherwise the new glue will not hold properly. You can then proceed to use our replacement tapes for tape extensions following the attachment instructions.
How do I care for my tape extensions?
Pay careful attention to never using hair conditioner or a hair masque on top of the PU of the tape extensions so you don't break down the glue. For more detailed instructions on how best to care for you tape extensions, please refer to our extensive how to care for hair extensions guide.
