Have you ever wondered what it’s like to wear tape-in hair extensions? Are tape in extensions damaging to your natural hair? These semi-permanent strands promise longer, fuller hair without the daily hassle of clip-ins. But what is it really like to live with them day in and day out?
For years, I flirted with the idea of long, voluminous hair. Endless Instagram posts, Pinterest boards, and YouTube tutorials made tape-in hair extensions look incredibly alluring. After weeks of mulling it over, I finally took the plunge. As someone with naturally thin hair, the promise of lush, cascading locks was too tempting to resist.
Are tape in extensions damaging?
The first few days were nothing short of magical. Every glance in the mirror was met with a confident smile. But as the days turned into weeks, reality set in. This endeavor quickly turned into an up-close lesson on the pros, cons, and uncertainties of wearing tape-in hair extensions. I’m here to share all of it with you, including some valuable tips I wish I had known beforehand.
Let’s kick things off on a positive note. Tape-in hair extensions undoubtedly have their share of perks, which I relished during my six-week experiment.
Pros of tape in extensions
1. Instant Confidence Boost: There’s no denying the transformative power of long, thick hair. From the moment I walked out of the salon, I felt like a new person. My confidence skyrocketed, and I absolutely loved the compliments I received. Strangers and friends alike remarked on how fabulous my hair looked, even if some suspected a wig. Such positive reinforcement was an undeniable pro in my journey of wearing tape-in extensions.
2. Versatile Styling Options: Another standout advantage was the versatility in hairstyling. High ponytails, elaborate braids, beachy waves—the extensions allowed me to experiment with a range of styles I never could with my natural hair. The extensions held their shape exceptionally well, withstanding even humid or windy conditions without a hitch. This opened doors to a world of Pinterest-worthy hairstyles that I’d only dreamed of before.
3. Low Daily Maintenance: Contrary to my initial worries, daily maintenance wasn’t as cumbersome as I feared. Once you get the hang of washing and brushing them, the extensions blend seamlessly into your daily routine. While washing did take a bit more time, brushing and styling were not overly challenging. Plus, the long-lasting beauty between washes meant I didn’t have to style them every single day.
Are tape in extensions damaging?
Of course, no beauty treatment is without its drawbacks, and tape-in extensions are no exception. Despite the initial euphoria, several hurdles related to potential damage made themselves known as the weeks progressed.
Cons of tape in extensions
1. Heaviness: The first downside I noticed was the heaviness. While they felt light and natural at first, the added weight started to wear on me over time. I experienced occasional headaches and discomfort, especially after infrequent ponytails or buns. The extensions also made sleeping slightly challenging at times, requiring some adjustment.
2. Challenges with Cleaning: Washing my hair was another ordeal that became more evident as time went on. While possible, it felt like my hair wasn’t ever truly clean. Residual product build-up and the odd tangled extension added to the frustration. Even drying the hair became a chore as the extensions naturally took longer to dry, making hair-wash days more time-consuming than they used to be.
3. Visible Tape and Tangling: As the extensions started to grow out, they became harder to conceal. The tape became visible, making sleek updos nearly impossible. Additionally, the extensions had a tendency to tangle, sometimes catching on objects or tangling with each other. This caused noticeable breakage in my natural hair, which was a significant concern, fueling thoughts about whether tape-in extensions are damaging over time.
4. Cost: Financial investment is another crucial factor to consider. Tape-in extensions are not cheap, and their upkeep can add up quickly. Beyond the initial installation, there are maintenance appointments, occasional adjustments, and the potential cost of special care products. While I managed some maintenance tasks at home, the inevitable salon visits were a pricey addition to my beauty budget.
5. Beach and Pool Days: Lastly, I encountered difficulties during sandy beach trips and pool days. Sand could get trapped in the extensions, leading to discomfort and hygiene issues. The extensions took much longer to dry, and I had to be extra cautious about exposing them to chlorinated or saltwater, which could affect their texture and longevity.
Are tape ins easy to remove?
After six weeks, it was time to say goodbye to my tape-in hair extensions. Concerned about potential allergies to chemical glue removers, I opted for a DIY removal using Walker Tape C-22 Solvent. I’d read that it was a gentle, natural alternative.
The process was surprisingly straightforward. By saturating the tape bonds with C-22 Solvent and allowing them to sit for a while, the adhesive began loosening. Gradually, I was able to slide the extensions out without too much trouble. It certainly took some time and patience, but I appreciated avoiding harsh chemicals on my scalp.
However, the removal process revealed another concern: breakage in my natural hair. The tangling and stress from the extensions had caused noticeable damage. My hair felt thinner and more fragile, leading to a mix of relief at having them out and anxiety about the state of my natural hair. Are tape in extensions then worth it for this level of hair damage?
Are tape in hair extensions worth it?
In my experience, while the extensions provided a notable thrill and aesthetic upgrade, the cons ultimately made me think twice about a long-term commitment. Being armed with knowledge about both sides of the coin helped me maintain a balanced perspective, and I hope it does the same for you.
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