How to Master Tape-In Updos
When it comes to styling hair extensions, Tape-In can be a little bit different than I-Tip or Fusion. That’s because, while I-Tip and Fusion extensions are strand-by-strand methods, Tape-In is a weft method, involving a wider piece of hair that lays flush to the head. The weft nature of Tape-In is what makes it so light and comfortable to wear, though it’s also responsible for adding a slight limitation on mobility—especially with up-do hairstyles. But that doesn’t need to be a problem. With a little bit of foresight and a couple of tricks, you can put those Tape-In locks into any shape or position your heart desires. Here’s how:
Ask in advance
During the consultation phase of your hair extension process, ask your client how they’d like to wear their hair while they’re using hair extensions. Get a sense of how your client typically wears their hair, how frequently they style it or change up their style, and figure out if they have any big events coming up that would call for a more specific ‘do. Not only will this give you the information you need for deciding on the best installation strategy (or even method), but it could also pave the way to a pre-scheduled styling appointment for said event.
Round out your parts
If your client likes to throw their hair into an up-do now and then, try taking making your parts a little rounder. Rather than draw a straight line through the hair, draw a slight “U” shape so the part looks like a smile, with the line extending upward toward the ears. That way, when the hair is pulled back, the Tape-In wefts will fold naturally in the direction of the ponytail.
Shimmy your strands
Let’s say your up-do calls for some difficult maneuvering. Rather than brush the extensions upward (which could flatten the hair and emphasize wayward wefts), pull the hair back so that it sits naturally, then gradually shimmy the bundle to your desired place. The Tape-In wefts will respond better to this gentle coaxing, and will therefore blend more easily into the hair. It helps if the style you’re re-creating is somewhat loose, though you can definitely coax the wefts into tauter styles, too (with some patience!).
Hack your styles
Sometimes your up-do can be re-configured to suit the Tape-In placement, rather than the other way around. Whether you’re working with a bridal up-do, a regal bun, or any performance hairstyle, most styles feature many variations that make the look more accessible to women with different hair situations. Try looking online for some inspiration, then let your creativity lead you!
Fill in
When all else fails, you can always use hair fillers—like bun fillers, braid headbands, or even Clip-In extensions—to fake the look that you’re trying to achieve. These tools can sit on top of any unruly or obvious Tape-In wefts, hiding them from view. You can even use these as a guide for the Tape-In extensions, wrapping the Tape-In hair over top so that they lay flat and even. No fuss, guaranteed!
Have you ever styled Tape-In hair into a difficult ‘do? Share your pictures by tagging us on Babe’s Instagram! We love to see your fabulous work!
