If you’ve ever worn hair extensions, you know the transformation they bring is unmatched! Whether you choose tape-ins, keratin bonds, sew-ins, or beaded wefts, these semi-permanent methods can last several weeks with proper care. But eventually, they’ll need to come out, so it’s essential to know how to remove extensions the correct way.
So, what’s the secret to easily removing extensions from hair? Having the right tools and techniques! Especially if you’re not a professional stylist and are removing extensions at home. When you use professional tools and accessories for removal, you’ll get salon-quality results. You’ll also need to know how to remove extensions from hair properly for best results, which we’ll explain next, so you’ll be a pro in no time!
How To Remove Extensions: Tape-In
Tape-in extensions are applied using small adhesive tape tabs with hair glue that’s safe for your locks. Removing tape in extensions is simple once you get the process down. However, it’s important to follow these steps carefully to avoid damaging your strands when removing extensions. Here’s what you need to know!
Tools You Need:
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Tape-in adhesive remover solution
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Hair clips and a comb
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Shampoo and conditioner (extension-safe)
How-To:
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Clip up the top layers of hair above the row of tape-in extensions.
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Spray the tape tabs directly with the remover where they sandwich the hair.
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Let it sit for 30 to 60 seconds to allow the adhesive to loosen.
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Gently pull the top tab away from the bottom tab.
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If there’s some resistance, apply more remover and try again.
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Once the tabs are loosened, slide the extension downward out of the hair.
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If any adhesive is left behind, use more remover and work it out with a comb.
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Continue this process row by row until all of the extensions are removed.
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Shampoo and condition the hair to get rid of residue or remover solution in the hair.
How To Remove Hair Extensions: Keratin Bond
Removing keratin bond extensions? These extensions are applied using keratin-based adhesive that bonds individual strands to the natural hair. When removing extensions from hair that has keratin bonds, you’ll need a remover solution that’s designed for this type of extension adhesive. This is how to do it!
Tools You Need:
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Keratin bond adhesive remover solution
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Hair clips and a comb
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Shampoo and conditioner (extension-safe)
How-To:
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Clip away the top layers of hair to reveal the keratin bond attachment points.
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Spray or apply the keratin bond remover liquid or gel directly on the bond.
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Let it fully saturate the bond for about 20 to 30 seconds.
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Use hair extension pliers to squeeze and crush the bond, it should crumble and loosen.
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Gently slide the extension strand out of the natural hair.
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Continue this process for all of the extension bonds.
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Use a comb to remove any leftover keratin bonds in the hair.
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Wash and condition the hair to remove residue and leftover remover solution.
How To Remove Extensions Hair: Sew-In
Sew-in extensions are applied using a special weaving technique with a needle and thread, securely attached to small braids. Not sure how to take them out correctly? Don’t worry, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about removing extensions below!
Tools You Need:
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Hair clips and a comb
How-To:
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Use clips to keep the top layers of hair out of the way and expose the sewn-in wefts.
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Using small weft scissors, snip the thread along each track, being careful not to cut the natural hair or extensions.
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Once the thread is cut, slowly remove the extension wefts.
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Carefully unbraid the natural hair using your fingers.
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Use a comb to remove any excess hair shedding or buildup.
How To Remove Extensions from Hair: Beaded Weft
Beaded weft extensions are applied using small hair beads that attach the extensions to the natural hair using a loop tool. Ready to remove them? We’ve got your quick step-by-step cheat sheet to help you remove them like a pro!
Tools You Need:
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Hair clips and a comb
How-To:
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Part the hair and clip the top section of hair so you can work on the row of beads.
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Use claw pliers to squeeze each bead in the opposite direction to open it.
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Once the bead is open, remove the extension and the bead from the natural hair.
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Use a comb to detangle the hair once you’ve finished removing the extensions.
How Long Does It Take to Remove Hair Extensions?
The amount of time it takes removing extensions from hair depends on the hair extension type. Tape-ins take about 30 to 60 minutes, while keratin bonds can take 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the number of individual bonds. Sew-ins usually take 30 to 45 minutes, and beaded wefts take around 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the number of beads and rows.
Make sure to stop by the Big Kizzy website to shop for everything you need for extension removal, application, and maintenance. All in one convenient spot with high-quality, professional tools and accessories!