Tape in hair extensions are a semi-permanent extension method designed for fast application, comfort, and a natural finish. Each tape tab consists of a strip of real hair bonded at the top with a medical-grade adhesive. The tape is applied to a fine section of the client’s natural hair and secured by sandwiching it with a second tape tab on the opposite side. Because tape tabs measure under 1mm in thickness, they sit flat to the head, feel lightweight, and remain hidden by the surrounding natural hair for an undetectable result.

Tri Tape™ extensions are an advanced evolution of traditional tape hair, developed by Routes to create a fully bespoke fitting system. They are designed to deliver full coverage even for very fine hair. While the overall structure mirrors regular tape tabs, each Tri Tape features six perforated mini tabs that can be divided and customised according to the client’s hair density.

Tri Tape extensions are fitted by folding each side of the mini tape tabs over a small section of natural hair. Pressure is applied using tape pliers, followed by controlled heat with hair straighteners to fully activate the adhesive. Each mini tab can be divided to match the exact size and weight required for the client’s hair, right down to under half a gram per piece. This bespoke fitting allows for safe application on very fine hair, helping to avoid tension and damage while offering a reusable method that can be maintained repeatedly.

Regular tape extensions are supplied as standard 2.5g tabs and are applied in neat, sandwiched rows to create seamless length and fullness. Tri Tape extensions are fitted in bespoke folded sections using custom-sized mini tabs. Both methods deliver a flat, seamless finish, but Tri Tape allows for far greater control of weight and placement, making it particularly suitable for finer hair types where precision is essential.

Tape in extensions are chosen for their balance of speed, comfort, and realism. They offer a natural finish with minimal bulk at the root and are one of the fastest professional hair extension methods to apply. Once fitted correctly, they move naturally with the client’s own hair and remain discreet at the scalp. At maintenance appointments, the extensions are removed, re-taped using pre-cut tape tabs, and refitted, making them a reusable and cost-effective option over time.

Tri Tape extensions offer all the advantages of regular tape hair with the added benefit of fully controlled weight and sizing at each attachment point. Although they take longer to fit than standard tape hair, the benefits for fine hair clients are unmatched. The smaller mini tabs offer greater flexibility, movement, and reduced visibility, even on very fine hair. Because the mini tabs weigh under half a gram yet provide excellent width coverage, fine hair clients often need less hair overall, making Tri Tape a safer and more cost-effective option. Tri Tapes are also highly popular for hybrid fittings, where regular tapes or wefts are used at the back and Tri Tapes are applied at the sides to achieve flat, discreet, bead-free results.

The exact amount of tape hair required depends on the client’s natural hair thickness, density, and desired result. A professional consultation with a qualified hair extension specialist is always recommended.

As a general guide:

• Fine hair full head: approximately 100–125g (4-5 packs)
• Medium to average thickness: approximately 150g (6 packs)
• Thick hair full head: approximately 200g (8 packs)

These figures are a guide only. A trained professional will assess your natural hair through consultation and advise the correct amount for a safe, balanced application.

Clip in hair extensions are a temporary option ideal for occasional wear or special events. They can be applied and removed at home, offering flexibility for short-term styling. Tape in extensions are designed for longer-term wear. Because the placements are professionally hidden and sit flat and comfortably against the head, they are best suited for those who want to enjoy longer, fuller hair every day without daily removal.

Tape in and Tri Tape hair extensions typically last between 12 and 18 months when correct aftercare is followed. Removal and refit appointments are required every 4–8 weeks depending on hair growth, lifestyle, and hair type. At each maintenance appointment, the same hair is reused and only the tape is replaced, making this a long-term, reusable investment for both stylist and client.

The answer depends on hair type, lifestyle, and fitting preference. For medium to thick hair, regular tape hair is often the preferred choice due to its fast application time and efficiency, which is why tape hair is commonly referred to as a “lunch hour” fitting. For fine hair, Tri Tape extensions offer a safer, more discreet, and more comfortable solution. For those between these hair types, a hybrid fitting using regular tapes at the back and Tri Tapes at the sides often delivers the ultimate balance of coverage, comfort, flexibility, and invisibility.

Yes, you can wear tape in and Tri Tape hair extensions on holiday, but correct care is essential, especially in hot climates and overseas beach destinations. We strongly advise keeping the hair covered from direct, intense sunlight wherever possible, as prolonged heat exposure can soften the adhesive and increase the risk of slipping.

You should never allow your tape tabs to become overheated, and the hair or tapes should not be saturated in swimming pools or the sea. Chlorine, saltwater, minerals, and metals in water can cause dryness, discolouration, and damage to both the hair and the adhesive bonds.

Before sunbathing, always thoroughly wet your hair using bottled water. This fills the hair cuticles with clean, pure water and helps prevent the absorption of chemicals from sunscreen, tap water, pool water, or sea water, which can lead to colour changes, dryness, and reduced tape performance. Keeping the hair protected, hydrated, and shielded from excessive heat is key to maintaining the look, feel, and longevity of your tape extensions while on holiday.