How to Properly Wash Hair with Tape-In Extensions – A Step-by-Step Guide

Tape-in hair extensions provide an easy way to add length and volume to your locks. But caring for these semi-permanent extensions requires some special hair washing techniques.

Improper washing can lead to matting, tangling and even detachment of the tape wefts. That’s why learning the right way to shampoo and condition hair with tape-in extensions is essential.

In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the entire process of properly caring for your taped hair extensions in the shower.

Can You Wash Hair with Tape Extensions In?

The good news is – yes, you can absolutely keep your tape-in extensions in place while washing your hair. Unlike clip-ins, tape-ins are designed to be shampooed and maintained without having to be removed daily.

However, there are certain precautions you must take to keep the tape bonds intact and avoid damaging the extensions during washing.

Follow these tips for safely washing and caring for your tape-in hair extensions:

How Often Should You Wash Tape-In Extensions?

• Wash taped hair no more than 2-3 times per week. Over-washing causes excess dryness.

• If hair feels greasy, use dry shampoo between washes to absorb oil and refresh hair.

• Avoid washing hair for 24-48 hours after new tape extensions are installed. This allows bonds to fully set.

• Adjust washing frequency based on your activity levels and climate. Washing too often can weaken tape bonds over time.

Step-by-Step Guide to Washing Tape-In Extensions

Follow this simple routine for washing your tape-in extensions safely:

1. Detangle Hair Before Showering

• Use fingers to gently separate any tangles and knots in dry hair before washing.

• For added protection, brush hair with a wide-tooth comb or specialized extension brush.

• Never brush wet, damp or freshly installed tape-in extensions as this can cause ripping and shedding.

2. Use Lukewarm Water

• Wash hair with lukewarm water to avoid melting extension tape bonds. Hot water can loosen the adhesive.

• Start with cool water and gradually increase temperature if needed but avoid extremely hot water on tape bonds.

3. Apply Shampoo Gently

• Use only professional, sulfate-free shampoo formulated for extensions. Avoid harsh shampoos.

• Apply shampoo to roots using fingers in a combing motion to streak it through hair and extensions.

• Gently work shampoo down the hair lengths, avoiding vigorous scrubbing.

• Concentrate shampoo only on your scalp and natural hair. Avoid directly shampooing the tape wefts.

4. Rinse Thoroughly

• Rinse out all traces of shampoo thoroughly with lukewarm water.

• Use your fingers to comb through hair under the shower stream rather than flipping head upside down.

• Part hair into sections to ensure you rinse the scalp and hair lengths completely.

5. Lightly Condition Mid-Lengths and Ends

• Use an alcohol-free, hydrating conditioner only from mid-shaft to ends.

• Avoid getting conditioner on the tape bonds as this can break down the adhesive.

• Let conditioner sit for 1-2 minutes before rinsing out with cool water.

6. Air Dry or Gently Blow Dry Extensions

• Blot hair with a microfiber towel and allow to air dry before brushing or styling.

• Blow dry slowly on a low setting if needed, keeping dryer 6-8 inches from hair.

• Always use a heat protectant spray when blow drying to prevent damage to extensions.

7. Style as Usual

• Once hair is fully dry, you can style your tape-in extensions as desired.

• Use heat styling tools cautiously and minimize direct contact with extension bonds.

• Apply dry shampoo at the roots to absorb oil and boost volume between washes.

Tips for Washing Thick or Heavy Tape-In Extensions

If you have a full head of dense or very long tape-in extensions:

• Opt for wider-spaced tape wefts instead of tightly-taped tracks for even distribution.

• Remove excess length and density if extensions feel too heavy.

• Wash hair in smooth, downward motions instead of scrubbing vigorously.

• Use your palms to gently press conditioner into hair rather than raking through with fingers.

• Separate into multiple sections to ensure thorough cleansing and rinsing.

• Sleep in a loose braid or bun to avoid matting and friction with pillows.

What to Avoid When Washing Taped Extensions

• No combing or brushing wet hair as this causes severe matting and tangling.

• Avoid using regular shampoos and conditioners that contain sulfates, alcohol, oils.

• No dripping wet hair forward or flipping head upside down when washing.

• Do not pile hair on top of head or scrub vigorously when shampooing.

• Avoid direct contact of water or products with tape bonds.

• No yanking, pulling or rubbing hair when detangling – gently work out knots with fingers.

Troubleshooting Guide for Washing Tape Extensions

Problem: Extensions appear tangled and matted after washing

Solution: Avoid brushing wet hair, shampoo with fingers in downward motions, use conditioning products

Problem: Tapes feel loose or are detaching after washing

Solution: Check water temperature, shampoo gently, condition mid-lengths only, avoid direct contact with tapes

Problem: Hair has poor conditioning and feels dry

Solution: Use professional hydrating conditioner only on mid-shaft to ends, avoid conditioner buildup on tapes

Problem: Extensions shed and seem damaged from washing

Solution: Use specialized sulfate-free shampoo, avoid brushing wet hair, gently detangle before washing

Problem: Hair feels weighed down and limp from washing

Solution: Switch to a lighter shampoo and conditioner, rinse thoroughly, apply conditioner sparingly

Maintaining Tape Extensions Between Washes

On non-wash days:

• Use dry shampoo to refresh hair and add volume at the roots.

• Spot clean hair and scalp buildup with dry shampoo or cleansing wipes.

• Freshen up styles with heat tools using thermal protection spray.

• Wear hair up or braided to prolong styling and prevent matting.

• Sleep on a silk pillowcase to minimize friction that can loosen tapes.

When to Avoid Washing Tape Extensions

Cases where you may want to avoid wetting your tape-in extensions:

• Right after new extensions are installed – wait 48 hours.

• If tapes are worn out or bonds feel loose.

• Before an important event where hair must stay styled.

• If you don’t have time for proper drying and detangling afterwards.

• If hair has chlorine or salt buildup – use clarifying shampoo.

Make sure to take extra precautions when washing your tape-in hair extensions. But used properly, high-quality salon tape extensions can be shampooed and maintained just like your natural hair.