For those of you who are new to hair extensions or want to know more about them, the options might seem endless! As you’re researching, you’ll come across different types and application methods, all with their own unique qualities. Weft extensions are among the most popular styles used by professionals, beauty influencers, and DIYers alike, so that term will be everywhere.
If you see the term “tape weft extension” while searching, you may wonder what the difference is from traditional weft extensions. Our hair extension experts at Big Kizzy have all the details, so keep reading to learn everything you need to know! First, we’ll explain each option, then help you decide whether weft tape vs weft extensions are the best option for you. Here’s the scoop!
What Are Weft Hair Extensions?
Let’s cover weft extensions first, since they’re the blanket term for all types of weft extensions. The weft hair extensions themselves are made with layers of hair sewn or glued onto a base called a weft. These wefts can be applied using various techniques, like sewing them into braided hair (sew ins), using beads (beaded weft), or bonding (keratin bond).
There are two primary ways that wefts are made:
Machine-Made Wefts
Machine-made wefts use a weaving machine to stitch hair strands onto a base fabric. This method produces thick, dense wefts that hold a large volume of hair.
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Best For: People with thick or coarse hair, as the wefts can be heavy.
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Pros: Durable, cost-effective, and you can custom-cut them to size.
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Cons: Can feel heavy and bulky if you have fine or thin hair.
Hand-Tied Wefts
Hand-tied wefts are crafted manually by tying individual hair strands onto the base. The result is a thin, lightweight, and flexible weft.
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Best For: Those with fine or thin hair who want a more natural and comfortable feel.
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Pros: Lightweight, flexible, and less damaging to hair.
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Cons: Usually more expensive and may require professional application. They also cannot be cut, otherwise they’ll unravel.
Hybrid Wefts
Hybrid wefts are wefts that provide the thinness of hand-tied wefts while providing the customizability and flexibility of machine-made wefts. The result is a thin, flexible, and durable weft.
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Best For: Those with medium-density hair or those who want to cut the weft.
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Pros: Lightweight, flexible, and the weft can be cut.
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Cons: Slightly thicker than hand-tied wefts.
What Are Tape Wefts?
When it comes to weft vs tape weft, what’s the difference? The short answer: they’re weft hair extensions that use tape! A tape weft extension combines the fullness of a weft extension with the convenience of tape application. These tape weft extensions come as long wefts of hair with pre-attached adhesive tape strips on either side.
You can either use pre-cut tape strips or tape rolls to apply these extensions at home or in a salon. Single-sided tape is used for application and reapplication, while double-sided tape is used only for reapplication. When it’s time to remove them, a special remover solution dissolves the adhesive safely without damaging your natural hair.
Why Choose Tape Wefts?
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Quick and Easy Application: A tape weft install is faster to apply than many other methods, making it a favorite for those wanting volume without a long salon appointment.
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Lightweight and Comfortable: Because the wefts are thin, tape weft placement feels lighter on your head, minimizing tension or discomfort.
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Affordable and Reusable: The tape strips can be replaced, allowing you to reuse the hair multiple times with proper care. This can save you money in the long run!
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Perfect for Medium to Long Hair: Tape wefts blend naturally and add volume and length without the heaviness of some other application methods.
Tape Weft or Weft Extensions: Which One Should You Choose?
Deciding whether to go the weft or tape weft extension route depends on your hair type, lifestyle, budget, and how you want to wear your extensions. Either way, you can add stunning length and volume to your strands, no matter which method you choose. We’ll give you a quick breakdown to make it easy for you!
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Choose Tape Wefts if: You want a quick, non-damaging, and reusable option that adds volume and length without heaviness.
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Choose Regular Wefts if: You want a more permanent solution, with beaded, sew in, or keratin application methods.
Your Weft Extensions Need The Best Tools and Accessories
Understanding the difference between a tape weft extension and a regular weft extension will help you make the best choice for your hair goals. Since a tape weft is a method of weft extensions, you’ll get the gorgeous and voluminous hair you’ve dreamed of with both options. It all comes down to how you want them applied and what best fits your lifestyle and desired look.
Whether you’re a professional stylist or planning to apply your extensions at home, Big Kizzy has everything you need for application, removal, and maintenance. If you need single-sided or double-sided extension tape, we have both. We also carry products for a range of extension types, no matter which method you choose. Head over to our website to stock up on all the must-haves for flawless extensions!