How to Remove and Reapply Tape-in Hair Extensions Properly | Lexhair Factory Guide

Why Proper Removal Matters?

Tape-in hair extensions are one of the most popular semi-permanent methods in salons worldwide. They offer a seamless blend, natural look, and comfortable wear. They are also lightweight and reusable.

Many people don’t realize one key fact, removal is just as important as installation.

A trichological study by Lesiva Maiia (2021) found that pulling extensions too hard or using harsh solvents can weaken the hair cuticle. Over time, this causes serious damage to natural hair. Another study from the MDPI Cosmetics Journal showed that improper removal can lead to traction alopecia in sensitive scalp areas. These findings confirm that safe, gentle removal is essential for keeping both extensions and natural hair healthy.

Removing tape-ins incorrectly, for example, skipping adhesive remover or using the wrong products, can cause:

• Breakage or thinning near the roots
• Sticky residue left on the scalp or strands
• Tangling or matting of hair and extensions
• Permanent damage to the wefts, making them unusable

Experts agree that proper removal protects both your extensions and your natural hair. The adhesive in tape-ins is strong yet designed to release cleanly when treated with the right remover. Use oil-based or alcohol-based products to dissolve the glue gently. This lets the wefts slide off easily without tension.

Careful removal and cleaning also help you reuse the extensions. A good-quality set can usually be re-taped and reinstalled two or three times. This saves money and reduces waste.

For salons and distributors, correct removal means happier clients and stronger loyalty. Clients will return because you deliver both beautiful results and safe care. waste. For salons and distributors, this means higher customer satisfaction and stronger long-term client retention, because customers trust you for both beautiful results and safe care.

When Should You Remove Tape-in Extensions?

On average, tape-in extensions last around 6–8 weeks before needing reapplication. This depends on your client’s natural hair growth rate, scalp oil production, and maintenance habits.
It’s best not to exceed this period, because once the extensions grow out, they create uneven weight distribution and can pull on natural strands.

Clear signs it’s time to remove or reapply:

• The tapes start slipping or lifting slightly
• Adhesive becomes visible near the roots
• Brushing or washing feels tangled or difficult
• The client notices buildup or itching near the scalp

Timely removal prevents stress on natural hair and keeps the extensions reusable for the next installation.

Tools You’ll Need

Before starting the removal process, it’s essential to have the right tools on hand. Using proper, salon-grade materials ensures the procedure is smooth, safe, and efficient. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Professional tape-in remover: Choose either an oil-based or alcohol-based formula, depending on your salon’s preference. These help break down the adhesive without damaging the hair.
• Tail comb: Ideal for sectioning the hair neatly and gently loosening the tape.
• Sectioning clips: Keep hair organized and make the process easier to manage.
• Clarifying shampoo and light conditioner: To cleanse the scalp and remove any remaining residue after removal.
• Clean towel and blow dryer: To dry both natural hair and extensions thoroughly before re-taping.

Having these tools ready will not only save time but also help maintain the condition of both the natural hair and extensions, setting the foundation for successful reapplication later.

Step-by-Step: How to Remove Tape-in Extensions

Removing tape-in extensions the right way requires patience and precision, rushing the process can lead to unnecessary hair loss or residue buildup. Follow these professional steps used by stylists worldwide:

Step 1 – Section the hair carefully:
Use a tail comb to divide the hair into thin, clean sections so each adhesive tab is visible and accessible. This prevents tangling and ensures an even workflow.

Step 2 – Apply the remover:
Spray or drop a small amount of tape-in remover directly onto the adhesive strip. Let it sit for 30–60 seconds so the adhesive begins to dissolve.

Step 3 – Gently separate the tapes:
Once softened, slowly peel the two wefts apart using your fingers or a comb. Avoid pulling or tugging, the tape should slide apart easily. If it doesn’t, apply a little more remover and wait a few seconds longer.

Step 4 – Clean the hair and remove residue:
After all extensions are removed, gently comb out leftover adhesive and wash the natural hair with a clarifying shampoo. This helps eliminate oil, glue, and product buildup.

Step 5 – Dry and prepare for reuse:
Lay the extensions flat on a clean towel and allow them to air dry naturally. Avoid direct heat immediately after removal. Once fully dry, store the extensions in a cool, dry place until you are ready to reapply them.

Taking time to remove tape-in extensions correctly not only protects the client’s natural hair but also extends the lifespan of the extensions themselves, allowing them to look fresh and beautiful for future use.

How to Reapply Tape-in Extensions

One of the biggest advantages of tape-in extensions is their ability to be reused multiple times, provided they’re cleaned and reinstalled properly.
Before reapplying, inspect each weft to make sure it’s still in good condition: smooth texture, no tangling, and intact ends.

Here’s the recommended reinstallation process:

• Clean the wefts thoroughly: Remove all old adhesive and residue using a professional remover. Any leftover stickiness can weaken the new tape’s hold.
• Re-tape using fresh adhesive strips: Apply new double-sided tape designed for professional use. Lexhair recommends medical-grade adhesive tape, which provides both flexibility and secure hold.
• Install on clean, dry hair: Natural hair must be free from oils and conditioners before bonding. Sandwich a thin section of hair between two tape tabs and align them evenly.

• Apply gentle pressure: Use flat pliers or a low-heat tool to seal the bond, ensuring full contact between the adhesive layers.
• Wait before washing: Advise clients to avoid washing or conditioning their hair for at least 48 hours after application to let the adhesive cure completely.

When applied and maintained properly, tape-in extensions can last beautifully for another 6–8 weeks and can be reused up to three times, maintaining the same natural look and movement as the first installation.

Why Professional Buyers Choose Vietnam for Tape-in Extensions?

When it comes to sourcing Tape-in hair extensions for salons or beauty brands, buying locally can be convenient, but not always cost-efficient or consistent in quality. That’s why more and more professional buyers worldwide are turning to Vietnam, one of the top destinations for premium human hair manufacturing.

Vietnamese hair is naturally thick, strong, and silky, making it ideal for long-lasting Tape-in extensions that can be reused multiple times. Combined with experienced craftsmanship and advanced processing technology, Vietnamese factories are able to produce extensions that rival, and often surpass, products from Europe or the U.S., at a significantly lower cost.

Working directly with a reputable Vietnamese factory also gives you:

• Factory-direct prices with no middlemen markup.
• OEM & private-label services to grow your own brand.
• Fast production and flexible customization — from color and texture to packaging.
• Reliable large-scale supply for salon chains or wholesalers.

Among these, Lexhair Factory stands out as one of the most trusted manufacturers, known for its consistent quality and professional service to partners across Africa, Europe, the U.S., and the Middle East!

Wholesale & OEM Tape-in Extensions Directly from Lexhair Factory Vietnam

As one of Vietnam’s leading human hair manufacturers, Lexhair Factory specializes in high-quality Tape-in Extensions made from 100% Vietnamese human hair. Each bundle is carefully selected, processed, and inspected by experienced technicians to ensure flawless texture, long lifespan, and safe adhesive bonding.

Whether you’re a salon looking for premium extensions for clients or a distributor seeking a dependable OEM supplier, Lexhair Factory delivers both quality and flexibility at scale.

What you get when partnering with Lexhair:

• 100% cuticle-aligned Vietnamese hair — soft, durable, and reusable.
• Medical-grade adhesive — holds securely, removes cleanly.
• Customizable colors, lengths, and packaging for your brand.
• Bulk and private-label production for international clients.
• Rigorous QC system ensuring every order meets export standards.
• Stable long-term supply for wholesale partners worldwide.

By ordering directly from Lexhair, you benefit from true factory-direct pricing, dedicated OEM support, and consistent product excellence, helping your business grow while maintaining premium standards for your customers.

📞 Contact Lexhair Factory Vietnam today to request a wholesale catalog, video call with our team, or see real product samples!