Tape In Vs Sew In Extensions, What's The Difference?

Tape-ins are presently having their moment, becoming a hair extension type most women would opt for. However, many also wonder if tape-ins are a better choice than sew-ins. Well, that’s why we are here.

If you're looking forward to trying one, then keep scrolling.

Are you ready? Let's begin.

What Are Tape-In Extensions?

Tape-ins are a type of hair extension that lasts about six to eight weeks. This feature makes them a semi-permanent option, which is great for women who like to change their style but only have time to do that occasionally.

Like other hair extensions, they add length and volume to your natural hair, coming in about 1 to 1.5 inches in width. That makes them easy to install in different small sections. But not only does that help but the adhesives at the beginning of the wefts also do. So, you can install them without the need for extra glue whatsoever.

Pros and Cons of Tape-In Hair Extensions

Pros

1. Versatility

With tape-ins, you won't have to worry about wearing just a particular style. There are different style options you can go with and wear conveniently.

In other words, the tape-ins will stay invisible and that'll be the job of your stylist.

2. Natural looking

Tape-ins add volume and length to your hair, without making it look awkward or unrealistic. Just remove the tab on the tape at the top of the hair extensions and sandwich them to your hair. You'll have a thick, flowing style that’s as natural as your hair.

3. Reusable

While this depends on different factors, especially maintenance and if they are high-quality hair, tape-ins are reusable. Generally, you can use them several times.

4. No Tugging

One beautiful thing about tape-ins is they don't tug on your hair. If you have sensitive or damaged hair, this is great for you. That's because there won't be issues with tugging when installing and removing the hair extensions.

5. Quick Installation

Tape-ins do not require special tools during installation. They are fast, easy, and damage-free. Simply use the adhesive on the extensions to glue them to your hair, and you'll be done in no time.

Cons

1. High Maintenance

Tape-ins need to be maintained properly for them to last long. Also, because of the glue, it's possible to have the extensions stuck (that's why maintenance helps).

2. Can Damage Hair

If you have thin hair or want to grow your hair, tape-ins aren't appropriate. They can damage your hair further.

3. Pricey

Getting human hair tape-in hair extensions can be quite pricey.

What Are Sew-In Extensions?

Sew-in hair extensions are one of the most common and popular hair extension types. It has been around for quite a while, making it an option most people consider.

Sew-in extensions are attached to the hair using a thread. So, it can be considered as a permanent type of extension.

When installing the weaves, your natural hair is put in cornrows first, and using a thread; the wefts are sewn to the braids. But there's another way to go about it and that’s by gluing the hair extensions.

That's right, sew-ins can either be sewn or glued.

Whatever extension method you use, sew-ins give you a natural, voluminous style. Some sew-in styles allow you to leave some of your hair out for a more natural look, and other styles braid all of your natural hair.

Related Read: Discover The 4 Different Types Of Sew Ins

Pros and Cons of Sew-In Hair Extensions

Pros

1. Long-lasting

As we've mentioned, sew-in hair extensions are a permanent option. They can last up to three months before you uninstall them. But this requires proper care to keep your hair healthy and the wefts shiny.

2. Natural Looking

Just like tape-ins, sew-ins are natural-looking. They have your hair into cornrows and the weaves on top give you a realistic, beautiful style.

3. Low-Maintenance

Sew-ins do not require you to do a lot daily. While you have to invest in hair products and care for your hair extensions, they are relatively easier to manage compared to other types.

4. Versatility

There are tons of styles you can try out with sew-in hair extensions. That’s because this type is also categorized into other different subtypes, giving you many options to actualize the look you have in mind.

5. It Gives Protection

By choosing sew-ins, you don't have to forgo protection. They offer your strands protection from elements and keep them from breaking. Likewise, there's no longer regular manipulation for the period you wear them and that's another fantastic way it protects your hair.

6. Least Damaging

Sew-ins do not damage your hair like some hair extensions would. They are part of the least damaging hair extensions you can use. However, be sure your braids are not very tight and you remove them on time.

Cons

1. Takes Time

Sew-ins are not as quick as tape-ins. It takes time to achieve, as you'll be braiding your hair before sewing the wefts. Typically, this can take about three to six hours to complete. And that's longer than when you use tape-ins.

2. Wrong Application

Tight braids can cause headaches and weaken your roots. So, make sure your braids are not very tight to the extent that it causes risk of damage to your hair.

3. Not Suitable for Women with Short Hair

Those with short or bald hair can't wear this, as your hair needs to be braided and sometimes, blended with hair extensions for a natural style.

Differences Between Tape-In and Sew-In Hair Extensions

We've explained what tape-in and sew-in hair extensions are, and from what's said so far, it's clear that they are different. Let's take things further and consider these differences.

- Durability

Sew-ins can last anything from four weeks to three months. That's a lot compared to the time you can wear your tape-ins.

Tape hair extensions last about eight weeks.

So, when considering durability as a factor, sew-ins will be preferable.

- Price

The cost of your hair extensions depends on what you want—synthetic or human hair. Synthetic hair extensions are naturally cheaper than human hair extensions.

But you still have to consider the cost of installing your hair extensions and in this case, sew-ins cost more because they take more time to install.

- Installation Process

The process of installing these hair extensions is different. While tape-ins use glue attached to them, sew-ins are sewn to your braids.

Also, your hair is put in braids, which is not the same process for tape-in hair extensions.

- Maintenance

If you guessed that tape-ins require more maintenance, you're correct. Tape-ins need a lot of care compared to sew-ins. They can easily get loose with hair oils or heat, which makes it compulsory to wash your hair regularly and avoid using heat styling tools on the adhesive. This is different for sew-ins. They are easier to care for and style.

How to Care for Your Tape-In Hair Extensions

Stressing on maintenance is one thing, how to go about it is another. Let's see how you can care for your tape-in hair extensions.

• Sleep with loose braids on to avoid tugging on your wefts. The braids also help avoid tangles you deal with in the morning.
• Use your oils and hair products at the body and ends of your hair. You have to avoid applying them to the adhesives. They can mess everything up.
• Brush your hair regularly, moving from the ends to the root. But you have to be extra careful when doing this. One thing that works when you brush is to hold your roots so you don't yank on the tapes.
• Using products that contain alcohol isn't advised. Similar to the oils, they can loosen your glue.
• We've said that using heat styling tools isn't recommended. However, if you must, put it on low heat and apply a heat protectant to your hair beforehand.

How to Care for Your Sew-In Hair Extensions

While you don't have to do the most with sew-ins, they still require maintenance and gentle care.

There are a few similarities with how you'll care for your tape-ins but these are less intense.

• Brush your hair extensions, especially in the mornings and before bed at night. You'll be happy you did since it'll prevent tangles.
• Products can build up after you've worn them for a while. So, wash them after some time to remove all the buildup and have a fresh style again.
• Drying is a must to avoid irritation and odor. You can pat dry with your microfiber towel before leaving it to air dry. If you want a faster route, use a blow dryer.
• Your serums and oils are your best friends. They'll keep it shiny and gorgeous. But make sure they are lightweight, use them sparingly, and keep them away from your roots to prevent buildup.

Tape-In Vs Sew-In: Which One is Better for You?

You should make the verdict. It all depends on your preference and the look you want. While sew-ins might be the best choice for someone looking for long-lasting hair extensions, they won't be for another person searching for a more temporary solution.

Both have their pros and cons and can be quite favorable in their own way. So, you make the call—which of them wins?