How to maintain your invisible hair tapes - everything you need to know
Invisible hair tapes are by far my favorite type of extensions to work with due to their seamless nature and comfortable lightweight fit. The 'root-like' weft means these extensions will go completely undetected, adding volume where necessary, length where you long for, and confidence when we need it.
The way I apply tapes to my clients is intricate and my placement is mindful. They're applied by taking a slice of hair and sandwiching it between two flat lightweight wefts for a secure fit, on a large surface area which won't put strain on the root.
The advice I'm going to give, when followed correctly, will ensure your tapes stay in place for the duration of their wear, cause minimal harm, and not compromise your gorgeous natural hair (you can even work on growing your natural hair while they're in). The health of your natural hair is always my priority, which is why invisible tapes are my secret weapon.
I aim to enhance and make choices for long-term hair goals that won't put your hair in a sticky situation. Some may call them guidelines, some call them rules...so here we go.
So you've just left the salon with your fresh set of invisible hair tapes. Not only do you want them to last until your next re-fit, you also want them to last so you can get maximum wear out of this hair and reuse them again and again. This takes a little extra love and aftercare.
Here's what you'll need:
Shampoo! You can buy Beauty Works Professional Shampoo in salon or via Instagram direct messages with me. Why use anything else? This shampoo is designed and created especially for your invisible hair tapes.
Conditioner!! Again by our friends at Beauty Works Professional. I'll even give you some mask and oil samples.
Serum to seal the ends, ensure glossy hair with the Davines Oi Oil, my personal favorite.
A wide-tooth comb and a bristle brush, something soft and natural without those plastic nubs on the ends. No combs, no hard brushes. A Tangle Teezer is also a good option.
A hairdryer, those bonds may be stuck together meticulously by me, but if you don't dry the roots off thoroughly, you could lose some.
When Washing...
Detangle first. Take your brush and start from the ends working your way up before you wash. This will avoid excessive pulling and tugging when the extensions are wet.
Double cleanse. Using your Beauty Works Professional Shampoo, lift any product build up and dirt from the scalp and roots by gently massaging the scalp. Twice please.
Moisturize. Taking the mid-lengths and ends, work the conditioner or mask throughout to hydrate your extensions. Avoid the roots as conditioner and oils can dislodge tape extensions and you may lose some.
Rinse. Girlie, take that shower head off the wall and rinse! Leave no tape unturned. For a healthy scalp, this step is so important to avoid itchiness.
When Drying...
Squeeze the water out. Do not rub! A towel will do, a t-shirt or microfiber towel is better. Gentle and soft.
Use your wide-tooth comb and add a little serum through the ends. Begin carefully detangling your extensions.
Using a medium heat setting on the hairdryer, dry the roots carefully until they are at least 80% dry.
Style as desired.
When Styling...
Protect at all costs. My favorite heat protector at the moment is the Olaplex Volumizing Mist. Lock in shine, add some hold and heat protection of course, all within this one bottle of goodness.
Don't pull on those tapes with a round brush or anything that tugs until those bonds are dry.
Your extensions must be treated with care just like our own. Try to keep heat to a minimum for longevity and long-lasting healthy extensions.
When Sleeping...
Braid. One or two or three... keep your extensions in place while you sleep. You'll even wake up with a natural beach look from the plaits for a no-heat wave.
A silk pillowcase or bonnet is highly recommended.
When Vacationing...
Pack the hair oil. Your extensions will need their daily dose of moisture, especially in the sun.
Don't forget to pack your shampoo and conditioner. Please don't neglect your hair on holiday.
Avoid the sea and pools. A hard one I know. Personally, I'm not a head dunker, but if you are, be aware that exposing your extensions to salt water or chlorine can cause dryness and discoloration.
Your set of extensions will last for 6-8 weeks before they'll need removing and re-fitting. Rebook to avoid exceeding the recommended wear time and manage your appointments directly with me by direct message or email. You can also call the salon via my contact page.
On the day of your re-fit, I will carefully remove the tape extensions, cleanse your hair and apply a scalp treatment while I re-tape your extensions in the studio.
Book a consultation with me via FaceTime or in person to discover all the possibilities of invisible hair tapes with me, Emma May.