Quick Answers
Whether 50g of tape is enough for hair extensions depends on several factors:
- Length of extensions – More tape is needed for longer extensions
- Thickness of extensions – Thicker extensions require more tape
- Number of extensions – More extensions means more tape
- Hair type – Coarse, thick hair needs more tape than fine hair
- Application method – Some techniques like pre-taped use less tape
As a general guideline, 50g of tape may be enough for short, thin extensions on fine hair. However, for longer, thicker extensions applied to coarse hair, significantly more tape would likely be required.
How Much Tape is Used Per Extension
The amount of tape used per extension can vary based on:
- Width of the extension – Wider extensions require more tape width-wise
- Thickness of the extension – Thicker extensions use more tape to bond securely
- Length of the extension – Longer extensions need more tape length-wise
- Tape thickness – Thicker, stronger tape takes more grams per strip
- Application method – Sandwiching uses more tape than pre-taped extensions
As a rough estimate, most stylists report using between 1-3 grams of tape per classic sandwich method extension. So for 50g total, this would equate to about 16-50 extensions able to be applied.
By Extension Width
| Extension Width | Tape Used Per Extension |
|---|---|
| 2 inch | 1-2 grams |
| 3 inch | 2-3 grams |
| 4 inch | 3-4 grams |
Wider extensions require more tape to securely bond across their surface area. A 2 inch wide extension may only need 1-2g of tape. But a 4 inch wide extension would need 3-4g of tape for proper bonding.
By Extension Thickness
| Extension Thickness | Tape Used Per Extension |
|---|---|
| 130% density | 1-2 grams |
| 150% density | 2-3 grams |
| 180% density | 3-4 grams |
Thicker, denser extensions require more tape for the strongest hold. Fine 130% density extensions may only need 1-2g. But coarse 180% density extensions would need 3-4g of tape per extension.
By Extension Length
| Extension Length | Tape Used Per Extension |
|---|---|
| 6 inches | 1-2 grams |
| 8 inches | 2-3 grams |
| 10 inches | 3-4 grams |
Longer extensions require more tape simply due to their increased length. A short 6 inch extension uses 1-2g of tape. But a long 10 inch extension would need 3-4g for proper hold.
How Hair Type Impacts Tape Needed
The client’s natural hair also impacts how much tape is required:
- Fine hair – Less tape needed for adhesion
- Medium hair – Moderate tape needed
- Thick, coarse hair – More tape needed for hold
Fine, silky hair gets good bonding with minimal tape. But lots of tape is needed on thick coarse hair to withstand the weight and hold the extensions.
Tape Recommendations By Hair Type
| Hair Type | Tape Needed Per Extension |
|---|---|
| Fine | 1-2 grams |
| Medium | 2-3 grams |
| Thick/Coarse | 3-4 grams |
When working on fine hair, 1-2g of tape per extension may suffice. For thick or coarse hair types, plan for 3-4g of tape per extension.
Application Method Impacts Tape Use
Different application techniques also influence tape requirements:
- Sandwich method – Uses more tape by bonding extensions between two taped strips
- Pre-taped extensions – Require less tape since already partially bonded
- Keratin bonds – Use no tape, instead are attached with keratin protein bonds
Sandwich taping uses the most tape by fully encasing the extensions between two strips. Pre-taped extensions already have tape pre-applied, cutting usage.
Tape Use By Application Method
| Application Method | Tape Used Per Extension |
|---|---|
| Sandwich taping | 2-4 grams |
| Pre-taped extensions | 1-2 grams |
| Keratin bonds | 0 grams |
Sandwich taping requires the most tape at 2-4g per extension. Pre-taped uses half as much tape. Keratin bonds use no tape at all.
Number of Extensions Impact Tape Needed
The number of extensions required is a key factor determining overall tape needed:
- Full head – 100-150 extensions or more
- Half head – 50-80 extensions
- Accents – 10-30 extensions
Full heads require the most tape, as they involve the highest number of extensions. Accent applications use the least amount of tape.
Tape Guidelines By Number of Extensions
| Number of Extensions | Total Tape Needed |
|---|---|
| 10-30 (accents) | 25-60 grams |
| 50-80 (half head) | 100-160 grams |
| 100-150 (full head) | 200-300 grams |
As a general rule, plan at least 2-3 grams of tape per extension. Accent applications may need only 25-60g total. But full heads require 200-300g of tape.
Recommendations for 50g of Tape
With 50g of tape available, here are some application recommendations:
- Accent application with 10-20 extensions
- Half head with thin, short extensions on fine hair
- A few wide, thick extensions as accents
There are some possibilities to work with 50g of tape. But it would likely be insufficient for a full head of dense, long extensions on thick hair using the sandwich method.
Ordering the Right Amount of Tape
To determine how much tape to order, consider these tips:
- Estimate 1-4g per extension depending on size and hair type
- Factor in number of extensions planned
- Add extra as back up – unopened rolls can be saved
- Stock up on sale when possible – tape is a recurring cost
Carefully calculating the grams of tape needed for each client’s unique extensions and hair will help determine the ideal quantity to have on hand.
Saving Money on Tape
Here are some tips for saving money on tape expenses:
- Buy in bulk if storage space allows – costs less per gram
- Look for sales, coupons, and loyalty programs to lower costs
- Only apply as much tape as needed – avoid waste
- Carefully store and seal open rolls to maximize use
- Consider lower cost application methods like pre-taped extensions
- Pass bulk savings onto clients by offering package deals
While tape is an ongoing cost, utilizing these savings tactics can help keep expenses under control.
Using Tape Effectively
To make the most of tape when doing extensions:
- Choose the right tape thickness and strength for the hair type
- Prepare the natural hair properly for optimal adhesion
- Work cleanly and precisely to avoid contamination or misplacement
- Follow manufacturer’s directions for correct application
- Seal open rolls completely between uses
- Apply the exact amount of tape needed, no more or less
Using perfect tape application techniques maximizes performance so clients get the longest wear and strongest hold from even minimal amounts of tape.
Troubleshooting Tape Issues
Some common tape troubles and how to resolve them:
| Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
| Not adhering to hair | Clean and rough up hair first for grip |
| Edges lifting | Use longer strips and press down thoroughly |
| Leaving residue on hair | Gently remove with oil then tape again |
| Extensions sliding | Use thicker, stronger tape suitable for hair type |
| Breaking when removed | Slowly peel tape off at 45 degree angle |
With the right techniques, tape can provide a secure yet gentle hold. But sometimes issues arise that need adjusting the application or tape choice.
Creating Long Lasting Extensions
For the longest lasting extensions with tape:
- Maintain hair health with conditioning treatments
- Avoid harsh styling and unnecessary tension on bonds
- Gently shampoo and brush to prevent matting at bond points
- Use specialized shampoos and products to prolong tape
- Retouch tape immediately at any signs of lifting
- Schedule maintenance appointments every 4-8 weeks
Tape can last 4-8 weeks with proper application and aftercare. But longevity ultimately depends on carefully maintaining the extensions and bonds.
When to Remove or Re-Tape
Plan to re-tape or remove extensions when:
- 50% or more of bonds have lifted
- Hair has grown out significantly at the root
- Extensions are damaged or ready to be changed
- It has been 8 weeks or longer since application
- Breakage, thinning or bald spots appear
- Hair health seems compromised
- Client plans to change their style significantly
Tape expires and requires replacing after 6-8 weeks typically. But also re-evaluate bonds sooner if the extensions show signs of damage or unhealthy effects.
Conclusion
Determining the right amount of tape for extensions depends on many variables like extension size, number applied, hair type and application method. While 50g may work for some small applications, most full heads require 200g or more of tape. To ensure the strongest bonds and avoid running short, carefully calculate the grams of tape needed per client. With the right amount on hand, stylists can create secure and flawless wear for any tape-in extension client.
