When it comes to longer, thicker, and more voluminous hair, hair extensions can truly be the game-changer. However, when it comes to taking them out, it’s essential to do so carefully to avoid damaging your hair. Whether you wear clip-in, tape-in, or sew-in extensions, it’s essential to know how to properly remove them, so you can avoid damaging your hair in the process.
In this blog, we will guide you through the process of removing hair extensions without damaging your natural hair and keeping those extensions safe for reuse.
Why Proper Removal of Hair Extensions Is Important
Incorrectly removing hair extensions may result in hair damage, loss, and thinning. For example, applying too much pressure or using strong chemicals can harm your natural strands. This is why using a meticulous and gentle method is crucial to removing your extensions.
The Safest Way to Remove Hair Extensions – Step By Step
Gather the Right Tools
Just be sure to have the proper tools with you before you start the removal. Here’s what you’ll need:
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For Clip-in Extensions: A comb or brush, plus your fingers.
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For Tape-in Extensions: A tape-in extension remover solution, a wide-tooth comb, and a towel.
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For Sew-in Extensions: A seam ripper or scissors, and a comb.
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Fusion or Pre-bonded Extensions: Removal solution/Oil, Comb.
If you have all your supplies ready, this middle finger method will help you remove your extensions safely and cleanly.
Start by Untangling Your Hair
Before starting the hair extension removal process, carefully brush or comb through your hair to remove any knots. This helps prevent pulling and tugging your own hair when removing your extensions. To minimise damage, use the wide-tooth comb.
Remove Clip-in Extensions
If you have clip-in extensions, this is one of the easiest methods to remove them. Here’s how to do it:
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Step 1: First, begin by unclipping the extensions from the root of your hair, one section at a time.
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Step 2: Open the clip carefully and remove the extension piece from down to up.
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Step 3: After you’ve taken all clips down, brush your natural hair thoroughly to be sure there are no snarls.
Clip-in extensions will require only careful unclipping and combing, making this step easy and quick to complete.
Remove Tape-in Extensions
Tape-in extensions require slightly more care when they are removed, simply because tape is used for their application. Here’s how to take out tape-ins safely:
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Step 1: Apply a tape-in removal solution on the bond where the tape is sticking to your natural hair.
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Step 2: Rub gently on the bonds/rings and leave it them on for 5-10 minutes. This will dissolve the glue and help it to slide off.
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Step 3: After the glue is loosened, use a wide-tooth comb to work your extensions away from your natural hair gently. Be very careful when brushing, as it can tug.
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Step 4: Once all tape-in extensions have been taken out, shampoo and condition your natural hair to rid any lingering adhesive.
Remove Sew-in Extensions
Sewn-in extensions must be handled with care as the extensions are worked into your natural hair using sewing techniques. If you’re taking out sew-in extensions yourself, do this:
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Step 1: With a seam ripper or pair of scissors, cut the thread that attaches the extension in place. Be sure to cut your own hair as little as possible.
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Step 2: Once you've removed the stitching, use your hands to pull out the extensions row by row gently.
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Step 3: Glide a comb through your natural hair to release any snags after the extensions are removed. Remove any loose strings or beads if any are left.
Sew-in extensions can require a bit of patience, so take your time to avoid damaging your hair.
Remove Fusion or Pre-bonded Extensions
When using fusion or pre-bonded extensions, the bond used is of keratin; you will therefore need a specific removal solution to break down the bond. Here’s how to do it safely:
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Step 1: Apply a keratin bond remover or oil to the hair extensions' bonds according to the product directions. The remedy will loosen the bonding, making it simple to separate.
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Step 2: Gently pull on the bond with your fingers or a comb to release the extension. Just be careful not to pull too hard on the natural hair.
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Step 3: When all extensions are removed, scrub your natural hair to remove any remaining residue from the removal solution.
Follow Up with a Deep Conditioning Treatment
Your natural hair can feel dry or brittle after detaching any extensions. To bring moisture back, you’ll want to treat your hair to some TLC:
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Deep condition your hair or use a hair mask to get moisture in your hair.
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Leave treatment in 15-30 minutes to allow deep penetration of hair and scalp.
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Shampoo well, then condition your hair as usual.
This step allows your natural hair to grow back after the extensions and keeps your tresses healthy.
Keep Your Extensions for Later
If you plan to reuse your extensions, be sure to store them properly. For clip-ins, gently comb through them, clean them, and store them in a protective case. Tape-ins and sew-ins should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight to prevent damage.
Conclusion: Handle with Care!
Removing hair extensions may seem intimidating, but with the right tools and steps, it can be done safely without putting undue stress on your natural hair. It’s Christian’s ethos that you should always be gentle and patient in removing tape extensions as well as care for your hair after so that it looks and feels its best.
We believe in offering our customers high-quality extensions that are easy to maintain and remove. If you're looking for premium-quality human hair extensions, we can help you find the perfect product for your needs.