Fix Dry and Damaged Tape Ins - Full Shine Help Center

Tape in hair extensions are a fantastic way to add volume and length, giving you a natural, seamless look. However, over time, dry and damaged tape in hair extensions can become a common issue that many extension wearers face. Factors such as heat styling, harsh products, and improper care can all contribute to this problem. In this article, we will guide you on how to fix dry and damaged tape ins by using the repair techniques and premium products to restore their softness, shine, and natural beauty.

1. Understanding the Cause of Dryness and Damage

Before addressing how to fix dry and damaged tape ins, it’s essential to understand what causes them to become damaged. Several factors contribute to the drying and fraying of tape in extensions:

Excessive Heat Styling: Frequent use of hot tools, such as straighteners or curling irons, can strip hair extensions of their natural moisture.
Harsh Hair Products: Products containing sulfates, alcohol, or heavy silicones can dry out both natural and synthetic hair extensions.
Improper Washing: Over-washing or washing with hot water can damage the tape and the hair, leading to breakage and frizziness.
Environmental Factors: Exposure to sun, chlorine, or saltwater can cause the hair to become dry and brittle.

2. How to Fix Dry and Damaged Tape Ins

Now that we know what causes the dryness, here are the steps to restore your tape in hair extensions.

Step 1: Use a Deep Conditioning Treatment

How to Apply:

Rinse thoroughly with cool water to seal the hair cuticles.
Wash your tape-ins gently with lukewarm water.
Apply a generous amount of deep conditioner, focusing on the mid-lengths and ends.
Let it sit for 10-15 minutes. You can also use a shower cap to trap heat and enhance the conditioning effect.

The first step in restoring dry tape ins is to hydrate them with a deep conditioning treatment. Choose a sulfate-free, moisturizing conditioner that is specifically designed for extensions or dry hair.

Step 2: Use a Nourishing Oil or Leave-In Conditioner

After conditioning, apply a nourishing leave-in conditioner or hair oil to help lock in moisture and smooth out frizz.

Recommended Products:

Argan oil or jojoba oil is great for adding shine and moisture without weighing down the hair.

Leave-in conditioners designed for hair extensions will help prevent tangling and keep the hair soft.

How to Apply:

Apply a small amount of oil or leave-in conditioner to damp hair.

Focus on the ends and gently comb through with a wide-tooth comb to detangle.

Avoid applying too much product near the tape area to prevent loosening the adhesive.

Step 3: Minimize Heat Styling

To prevent further damage, reduce the use of heat styling tools. If you must use them, always apply a heat protectant spray before styling.

Tips for Heat Styling:

Use a blow dryer with a diffuser on the lowest heat setting.
Limit the use of flat irons and curling irons. When you do use them, always set the tool to a lower temperature (300-350°F) to avoid overheating the extensions.

Step 4: Trim the Ends Regularly

Even with the best care, hair extensions may develop split ends. Trimming the ends every 6-8 weeks will help keep the extensions looking fresh and prevent further damage from spreading.

How to Apply:

Use sharp scissors designed for hair cutting.

Only trim the tips of the hair, avoiding the tape area.

If you’re unsure, consider visiting a professional stylist who has experience working with tape-ins.

Step 5: Avoid Harsh Products and Chemicals

When cleaning and maintaining your tape ins, make sure to use products that are gentle and suitable for both natural hair and extensions.

What to Avoid:

Avoid products with sulfates, parabens, and alcohol, as these ingredients can dry out the hair and cause it to become brittle.
Steer clear of chlorine and saltwater exposure, which can be especially damaging to extensions.

Step 6: Protect Your Extensions at Night

To prevent tangling and further damage, protect your tape-ins while you sleep.

How to Protect Tape-Ins at Night:

Braid your hair loosely or tie it in a soft silk or satin scarf to prevent friction and tangling.
Alternatively, use a silk pillowcase to minimize friction on your hair extensions.

3. When to Consider Removing and Replacing Tape-Ins

Even with regular maintenance, tape in extensions will eventually need to be replaced.

If your tape-ins have become excessively damaged, or if you notice that the adhesive is no longer holding properly, it may be time for a new set.

Signs It’s Time for a Replacement:
- The tape is no longer sticking securely.
- The hair feels excessively dry or brittle, even after conditioning.
- The extensions have lost their natural shine and look unnatural.

4. Preventing Future Damage to Tape In Extensions

Now that you’ve restored your tape-ins, it’s essential to prevent future dryness and damage. Follow these tips to keep your extensions in great condition:

Tip	Description
Limit heat styling	Style your natural hair around the extensions to avoid frequent use of hot tools on the extensions.
Avoid over-washing	Wash your tape ins no more than 2-3 times a week to prevent stripping natural oils.
Use protective products	Incorporate hair masks, oils, and leave-in conditioners into your routine to maintain moisture.
Protect from the elements	Use a hat or protective spray when going out in the sun or swimming in chlorinated water.

Conclusion

Dry and damaged tape in extensions can be a frustrating issue, but with the right care and attention, you can restore them to their original beauty. Follow these simple steps—deep conditioning, minimizing heat styling, and using nourishing products—and your tape ins will stay soft, shiny, and healthy for longer.