Tape-In vs Clip-In Hair Extensions: What's the Difference?

If you're thinking about getting hair extensions, you might be wondering whether to choose tape-in or clip-in. Hair extensions have become increasingly popular over the years. According to a survey conducted by Great Lengths, roughly 13% of women wear them. While all hair extensions can create the appearance of longer hair, though, some of them require a different method of installation than others. There are tape-in hair extensions, for instance, and there are clip-in extensions.

What Are Tape-In Hair Extensions?

Tape-in extensions are defined by their use of a self-adhesive tape. Like all hair extensions, they consist of artificial or natural hair that's installed near the ends of your own natural hair to create the appearance of longer hair. Tape-in extensions are simply taped into your hair. The tape is typically applied underneath your natural hair where it remains concealed.

What Are Clip-In Hair Extensions?

Clip-in hair extensions, on the other hand, are defined by their use of clips. They consist of strands of hair that are bundled together. At the end of the bundle is a clip. Clip-in hair extensions are installed using these clips. When getting clip-in hair extensions at a salon, the stylist will clip the extensions onto your natural hair.

Choosing Between Tape-In and Clip-In Hair Extensions

Tape-in and clip-in are two of the most common types of hair extensions. Based on their appearance, they may look the same. Nonetheless, tape-in and clip-in hair extensions each offer their own benefits.

Clip-in hair extensions are easier to install than tape-in hair extensions. They feature a simple clip that you can use to easily add or remove them from your natural hair. Tape-in hair extensions are slightly more difficult to install. They must be installed in the correct areas, and doing so is more difficult due to their tape.

Choosing clip-in hair extensions will also protect your natural hair from adhesives. All tape-in hair extensions have adhesive. While the adhesive used in them is safe and nontoxic, it can leave a residue on your natural hair. Clip-in hair extensions don't have any adhesive, so this isn't a concern for them.

Tape-in hair extensions, conversely, may last longer than clip-in hair extensions. The clips used in clip-in hair extensions can come loose. When this occurs, they may break away from your natural hair. Tape-in hair extensions feature self-adhesive tape that makes them more secure than their tape-in counterparts.