What to Know Before Getting Tape-In Extensions

Tape-ins are thin wefts of hair sandwiched around small sections of your own hair with a medical-grade adhesive. No heat, no braiding, no beads. They lie flat, which is why they work so well on fine hair.

The three things that determine whether they look real

• Color match — including dimension. A single flat shade against dimensional hair always reads as extensions.
• Placement — mapped around your part, off the perimeter, planned for ponytails.
• The cut. Uncut extensions look like extensions. Blending them into your own layers is half the job.

The maintenance is real

Bonds need moving up every six to eight weeks as your hair grows. That's not optional — leaving them longer is where matting and damage come from. The hair itself can usually be reused across several move-ups, often six to twelve months with good care.

Daily care

• Brush with a loop or extension brush, holding the bonds
• Keep conditioner and oils off the tape itself
• Braid or loosely tie hair before sleeping
• Dry the bond area rather than leaving it damp

What they cost

Extensions are quoted after a consultation, and that's not a dodge — the hair is ordered specifically for your color and length, so the total depends on how many wefts you need. You'll get the full number, hair plus service, before anything is ordered.

Who they're great for

Fine hair that needs fullness rather than length. Anyone growing out a short cut. Filling in an awkward layer grow-out. Adding brightness without lightening your own hair.

Who should wait

If your hair is currently fragile from over-processing, deal with that first — extensions add weight and tension. Niki will tell you at the consultation if it's better to strengthen your hair for a few months first.