6 Tape-In Extension Mistakes And How To Fix Them

6 Common Tape-In Extension Application Mistakes 

Tape-in extensions have never been more requested—seriously, EVERYONE wants a little extra hair, from adding volume to evening out the front of a bob. Make sure your tape-in technique is on point with these tips from Great Lengths USA Executive Artistic Director Danielle Keasling (@danielle.keasling). She came to The BTC House to break down the six most common tape-in extension mistakes and how to fix them, so keep scrolling!

Products Used

Hair Extensions

GL Tapes

Great Lengths

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MISTAKE: Tapes are visible when the hair is pulled back

SOLUTION: Allow at least 1 inch of space from the hairline.

“You need to create a nice, thick veil of hair if you’re going to pull the hair away from the face,” Danielle said. Without enough natural hair density at the hairline, that tape WILL be visible. Go at least an inch away from the hairline and test what the hair looks like when pulled back (even at multiple angles) to make sure the tape is hidden. For fine or thin hair, allow even more space.

MISTAKE: The tape is installed too close the scalp, causing tension and pain.

SOLUTION: Allow between ¼ and ½ inch between the scalp and the tape.

“Sometimes to make sure the extensions last as long as possible, you think you have to put them super close to the scalp,” Danielle explained. But this actually DECREASES longevity of wear in the long-run. Why? “It creates tension on the hair,” she said. Installing tapes directly next to the scalp does not allow the client’s hair to naturally fall, which in turn causes buckling and tension on the hair—and that means the extensions could be painful and won’t last as long. The proper distance from the scalp for tape-in application is ¼ to ½ inch, which allows the hair to naturally fall and won’t add tension.

MISTAKE: Forcing too much hair between tapes.

SOLUTION: Take thin sections.

You may think more hair between tape sandwiches = a more secure install and longer-lasting extensions, but in fact, the OPPOSITE is actually true. Too much hair between tapes prevents the adhesive from properly sealing, and the extensions won’t last as long. If your tail comb can easily fit between the tapes, that means there is too much hair in the section and the adhesive isn’t sealed. Instead, take thin sections—you should be able to see through them—so the adhesive can seal properly.

MISTAKE: Using your fingers to seal the tape.

SOLUTION: Use the Great Lengths Connector Tool.

The more you touch the adhesive tabs, the more oils from your fingers can break down the adhesive—again, leading to extensions not lasting. Danielle advises using clips or a tail comb to place the tape tabs, then using the Great Lengths Connector Tool to seal them. Squeeze the tab a few times, then squeeze both edges of the tapes to ensure a totally sealed bond that will keep water and moisture out.

MISTAKE: Applying extensions at a strong diagonal, which can cause tension.

SOLUTION: Take a softer diagonal.

For clients looking for more density around the face, tape-in extensions are a great solution, and applying diagonally is possible. But watch how extreme the diagonal angle is, Danielle cautions. A diagonal section that is too extreme means the client’s hair won’t lay at natural fall—it will slightly curve up and THEN down. Installing an extension here will cause tension, which equals potential pain and decreases the extension application’s longevity. If you want to tape on a diagonal to fill in the front, follow the way the hair wants to lay.

MISTAKE: Adhesive tabs are misaligned and won’t seal.

SOLUTION: Be precise in application.

Precision DOES matter in application. If the tabs are even slightly misaligned, you won’t get a proper seal. Be precise in lining up the adhesive tabs, and seal with the Connector Tool. This is crucial to keeping moisture out and achieving long-lasting extensions.

Click Here To Learn Danielle’s Tape-In Extension Application & Cutting Methods!