How to Remove Tape In Extensions at Home (Expert Tips)

Key Takeaways

• If you have trouble scheduling an appointment, you can quickly remove your tape-in extensions at home with a few basic supplies, including an extension removal solution, a comb, protective gloves, etc.
• With a step-by-step tutorial, explore how to remove tape from extensions like a pro in the comfort of your home. Scroll down to find out!

Step 1: Gather Your Supplies

Essential Items

Before jumping to the instructions on how to remove tape in extensions, you will need to prepare the following items:

• Extension Removal Solution: Tape-in extensions require an adhesive remover, usually oil—or alcohol-based. This remover dissolves the adhesive without harming natural hair. It softens after application, making removal simple. You may get these removers from beauty supply stores or online retailers like Amazon or Sally Beauty.
• Fine-Tooth Comb: It gently detangles your hair while removing any adhesive residue or loose strands from the extensions. A fine-tooth comb lets you go through the hair without causing breakage or damage, ensuring the extensions glide smoothly while your natural hair remains intact. 
• Protective Gloves: They can protect your hands from adhesive removers, including alcohol or other chemicals that dry or irritate your skin. In addition to hygiene issues, gloves improve grip, letting you handle the extensions more effectively while avoiding sticky residue on your fingers. 

Optional Items

• Oil or Conditioner: After removing the extensions, use oil or conditioner to keep them clean and clear of any residue or product accumulation. 
• Hair Clips: It can keep your hair out of the way throughout removal.
• Towel: It protects your clothing and shoulders from adhesive residue and remover spills, ensuring everything remains clean and stain-free.

Safety Precautions

Knowing how to take out the tape in extensions is not hard. Still, it is best to use the appropriate adhesive remover for tape-in extensions when removing hair extensions at home. 

Avoid harsh chemicals, as they can cause hair breakage and skin irritation. Importantly, always follow the product's instructions to ensure safe removal.

Step 2: Prepare Your Hair

Detangle

How to remove tape in extensions? Begin by carefully detangling your hair using a fine-tooth comb. You should begin with the tips and work up to the roots. This approach helps avoid pulling and decreases the chance of harming your natural hair. 

Section Hair

When sectioning your hair, do so in small parts to ensure optimal removal. This method allows you to control each hair extension and provides enough solution to break down the glue.

Protect Your Hair

Wrap a towel over your shoulders and upper back to preserve your hair and clothing while removing tape-in extensions. Secure it with a clip or by tucking the edges under your arms. The towel will protect the adhesive remover from ruining your clothes and keep your shoulders clean during the entire process.

Step 3: Apply Removal Solution

Application

The next step regarding how to remove tape in hair extensions is to apply the removal solution.

Begin from the side of your head and ensure you only see what you're doing in a mirror. Shift all the hair covering the tape at the top of the extension to the opposite side of your head. 

If the hair you pulled out of the way does not remain in place, use a clip to secure it.

Wait Time

When using adhesive remover, follow the manufacturer’s directions properly. The process generally entails soaking the tape with the remover and waiting for the adhesive to dissolve for a set period (typically 10 - 15 minutes).

Check Reaction

Now, wiggle the hair extension to ensure that it is free and that the tape looks like it is pulling away from your hair.

If the adhesive remains securely in place, you may need to reapply the remover and wait longer before removing the extension. Working in small sections and taking time is critical to ensuring a safe and damage-free removal process.

Step 4: Remove Extensions

Gently Pull

Don’t know how to get tape in extensions out? Once the extensions have been loosened, carefully remove them. Use your fingernails to remove the tape from your natural hair. It should quickly come away in your hands. 

Then, work through each row of hair extensions, beginning on the left and ending on the right. Start from the top of your head and progress to the bottom. Follow the same procedure for each piece of tape, applying enough hair extension remover and pulling it away until it seems like it could fall out.

Use a Comb

Using a comb to remove tape-in hair extensions can help minimize damage. Lift the extensions gently from the natural hair with a fine-toothed comb, beginning at the ends and working your way up. 

Avoid Pulling

Do not try to pull your hair since this might result in damage and breakage.

If the extensions do not come off quickly, use more adhesive remover or natural oil and wait a few minutes before attempting again. Alternatively, try a different hair extension removal product or seek assistance from a professional hairstylist.

Step 5: Clean Up Residue

Remove Residue

Now you know how to remove tape in extensions. Still, your hair will most likely feel greasy or sticky after you remove all of your hair extensions, owing to the hair extension remover and tape residue. 

Use a generous amount of oil or conditioner and apply to the sticky parts.  Massage it carefully into the residue, ensuring it covers the whole area. Let it remain for 10 - 15 minutes so the conditioner or oil softens the adhesive. 

When the residue has become loose, use a fine-tooth comb to carefully remove it, beginning at the roots and working your way downward.

Wash Hair

Afterward, wash your hair, typically using shampoo. Two to three rounds of washing will be sufficient to remove all the residue and oil. Then, use a hair conditioner to nourish it. Comb the conditioner into your hair to help eliminate any stickiness.

Condition

If your hair is already dehydrated, use a thorough conditioner. It might help restore your hair's shine and vitality. Hair extensions do not prevent hair development, so your hair will continue to grow properly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does coconut oil remove tape in extensions?

Coconut oil helps remove tape-in extensions. It facilitates easy removal by helping to loosen the glue without leaving blobs of glue in the hair.

How many times can you reuse tape in extensions?

If you take good care of your natural hair and the extensions, you may use tape-in extensions 2 to 3 times.

What happens if you leave the tape in extensions for too long?

If used for an extended time, tape in extensions can split, tangle, and mar your natural hair. Moreover, the adhesive may weaken and cause damage and slipping.