Clients want volume. Stylists want efficiency. But should U go with tape-ins or sew-ins? Choosing the right method can make or break the entire client experience.

Tape-ins offer quick, non-damaging installs with less tension. Sew-ins provide secure wear for thicker hair and long-term volume.

Both methods have their place in the salon. Let’s break down the differences so U can decide what works best for your services or wholesale product line.

What Is Tape-In Hair?

Clients love transformations. Stylists love time-saving. Tape-in extensions give both.

Tape-in extensions are pre-taped wefts that “sandwich” a section of natural hair, using medical-grade adhesive to stay in place.

Dive Deeper: How to Install Tape-In Extensions

Step-by-Step Installation:

1. Prep the Hair
   Wash hair with a clarifying shampoo. No conditioner. Blow dry straight.
2. Section Precisely
   Divide hair into neat, horizontal sections. Start from the nape.
3. Peel and Stick
   Remove the backing of the tape. Place one tape under a thin slice of natural hair.
4. Sandwich the Hair
   Press a second tape over the top. Align evenly. Press firmly.
5. Flat Iron (Optional)
   Some stylists lightly tap a flat iron over the tape for extra seal—but only briefly.
6. Style As Desired
   Hair can be cut, blended, and styled immediately.

Advantages of Tape-Ins:

• Fast installation (30–60 mins)
• Comfortable and lightweight
• Ideal for fine or medium hair
• Reusable (2–3 times)
• No heat or braiding required

Drawbacks:

• Not ideal for very oily scalps
• Tapes can slip if not applied cleanly
• Cannot use heavy oils or conditioners at roots
• Lasts 6–8 weeks per install

What Are Sew In Extensions?

Sew-ins have been a salon staple for decades. When clients want secure, long-term fullness, they deliver.

Sew-in extensions (also called weaves) are hair wefts sewn onto tightly braided cornrows using needle and thread.

Dive Deeper: How to Install Sew-In Extensions

Step-by-Step Installation:

1. Clean and Blow-Dry
   Clarify the hair, dry fully, and detangle.
2. Create Anchor Braids
   Braid the natural hair into cornrows horizontally. Create a solid anchor base.
3. Thread the Needle
   Use a curved sewing needle and matching thread.
4. Sew the Weft
   Begin at the bottom row. Sew the weft onto the braid securely using the “lock stitch” method.
5. Cut and Blend
   Once all wefts are attached, cut and blend for a natural finish.

Pros of Sew-Ins:

• Extremely secure
• Great for thick, coarse hair
• Can last 8–10 weeks
• With proper install, causes no damage
• No adhesive—safe for sensitive skin

Cons:

• Installation takes 2–3 hours
• Not suitable for thin or fragile hair
• Braids can feel tight at first
• Not easy to remove without professional help

Tape Ins vs Sew Ins: What’s the Difference?

Knowing the difference between tape in extensions vs sew in is key for offering the right solution to each client type.

Dive Deeper: Technical Breakdown

Factor	Tape-In Extensions	Sew-In Extensions
Installation	30–60 minutes	2–3 hours
Removal	Quick with solvent	Requires scissors and time
Durability	6–8 weeks	8–10 weeks
Best for	Fine to medium hair	Medium to thick, coarse hair
Maintenance	Move up every 6–8 weeks	Touch up every 8–10 weeks
Reusability	2–3 times with fresh tape	Reusable if weft is full cuticle
Styling Limits	Avoid oils at root	Can use oils freely
Comfort Level	Very light, flat	Heavier, tension on scalp if braided tight

Are Tape-In Extensions Better Than Sew-Ins?

Both methods serve a purpose. The better one depends on U.

Tape-ins are better for comfort, time-saving, and thin hair. Sew-ins offer stronger hold, ideal for thick hair and active clients.

Dive Deeper: Use Case Scenarios

• Client has fine hair and needs lightweight volume → Go for tape-ins
• Client has thick or textured hair and wants durability → Choose sew-ins
• Salon needs fast turnover for back-to-back clients → Use tape-ins
• Stylist specializes in long-wear installs → Master sew-ins

Stylists must assess scalp health, client expectations, hair type, and lifestyle before choosing.

My Opinion

In my experience, salons that target premium clientele should offer both methods. Tape-ins are perfect for first-timers or retail clients. Sew-ins are a powerful tool for stylists dealing with volume lovers or textured hair clients.

At Hibiscus Hair, we manufacture both tape-in and sew-in extensions using 100% full cuticle, single donor hair. This ensures both methods stay soft, natural, and tangle-free—even after months of wear.

FAQ

1. Can I reuse tape-ins?
Yes, 2–3 times with new tape tabs.

2. Are sew-ins damaging to natural hair?
Not if installed with proper tension and removed carefully.

3. How long do sew-ins last?
Usually 8–10 weeks, depending on hair growth.

4. Can I swim with tape-ins?
Yes, but tie hair and avoid soaking the roots repeatedly.

5. Which costs more?
Sew-ins cost more for labor. Tape-ins cost more long-term due to adhesive replacement.

6. Do tape-ins cause allergic reactions?
Rarely. But some clients with sensitive scalps may react to tape adhesives.

7. Are sew-ins good for thin hair?
No. Braids may stress the scalp if the hair isn’t dense enough.

8. How to wash sew-in extensions?
Gently cleanse between tracks. Dry scalp completely to avoid mildew.

9. Can I color tape-ins or sew-ins?
Only if they are made with full cuticle Remy or virgin hair—like Hibiscus Hair.

10. Do tape-ins blend better?
Yes. They lay flat and blend seamlessly into natural hair.

11. What type of hair is best for sew-ins?
Full cuticle wefts—hand-tied or machine—are ideal.

Conclusion

Both tape-ins and sew-ins bring value. Choose tape-ins for speed and subtlety. Choose sew-ins for strength and staying power. Or offer both for maximum flexibility.