Here is a review of the best shampoo for tape extensions that help remove hairspray, serums, and other products from your extensions!
Hair extensions are a blessing for people who have short hair. They look natural and let you have long hair in a matter of time.
You don’t have to wait for months for your hair to grow.
But they are high maintenance. If you want your extensions to last long, you have to take good care of them.
Related: Best Hair Extensions For Fine And Thin Hair
Related: Best Hair Extensions For Short Hair
Hair extensions can also lead to hair damage, so proper maintenance can also help in avoiding it.
Using the right hair products can go a long way in maintaining your extensions. This will help you make the most of your extensions.
What shampoo to avoid for Tape in Extensions
When you have tape-in extensions, it's important to choose the right shampoo to avoid damaging the bonds and causing the extensions to slip or fall out. Here are some types of shampoos to avoid when you have tape-in extensions:
- Clarifying shampoos: Clarifying shampoos are designed to remove buildup and residue from the hair, but they can also strip away the natural oils that protect the tape bonds. This can cause the bonds to weaken and the extensions to slip.
- Sulfate-containing shampoos: Sulfates are harsh detergents that can strip away the natural oils from the hair and scalp, which can cause the tape bonds to weaken and the extensions to slip. Look for sulfate-free shampoos that are gentle on the hair and scalp.
- Moisturizing shampoos: While moisturizing shampoos can be great for dry or damaged hair, they can also cause the tape bonds to weaken and the extensions to slip. Look for shampoos that are lightweight and won't weigh down the hair.
- Oily shampoos: Shampoos that are formulated for oily hair can be too harsh for tape-in extensions, which can cause the bonds to weaken and the extensions to slip. Look for shampoos that are gentle and won't strip away the natural oils from the hair and scalp.
Overall, it's important to choose a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo that is designed for hair extensions and won't damage the tape bonds.
How I tested for the best shampoos for tape in extensions?
Best Shampoo For Tape Extensions | Best For | Top Ingredients |
Matrix Total Results Length Goals Shampoo | Greasy Hair Extensions | Salicyclic Acid, Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein |
RemySoft Moisturelab Hydrating Cleanser | Dry | Aloe Vera, Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein, Pineapple Extract, Nettle Extract |
B3 Brazllian Bondbuilder Extension Shampoo | Curly Tape Extensions | Panthenol, Castor Oil, Sunflower Extract |
Brandywine Non-Static Shampoo | Frizzy Extensions | Panthenol, Vitamin E, Aloe Vera |
Damila Shampoo and Conditioner Set | Split Ends | Aloe Vera, Keratin, Hydrolyzed Silk Protein |
DermaChange Natural Shampoo And Conditioner | Dry Hair | Aloe Vera, Tapioca Starch, Coconut Oil |
Pantene Rosewater Shampoo | Dull Hair Extensions | Rose Extract, Glycerin, Argan Oils |
I used these shampoos on my own tape extensions (both synthetic and natural hair ones) and then checked for the following criteria. I then rated these shampoos on a scale of 1-5.
- Formula - The reason why we need a separate shampoo for hair extensions is because the salts present in regular shampoos (yes, even sulfate-free ones) can weaken the glue on the tape-ins. So I looked for a low-salt formula.
- Ability To Cleanse - I also checked how well the shampoo can cleanse hair and if it strips hair color or is gentle.
- Price - I don't believe in spending exorbitant amounts of money for cleansing just extensions. So a low priced (yet good quality) shampoo is essential.
Top Shampoo For Tape Extensions
I have curated a list of some of the best shampoo for tape extensions that will help increase the longevity of your hair extensions.
Matrix Total Results Length Goals Shampoo
Best Daily Use Shampoo For Tape Extensions
Matrix is one of my favorite professional hair care brands and their products are extremely effective for the hair. But if you're wondering why a hair growth shampoo is on a list of tape extensions cleansers, here's the reasons - low salt formula.
This shampoo from Matrix is designed to protect your hair extensions as it contains no harsh salts that can dissolve the glue from the tapes. So it's a great choice!
I liked that this shampoo can be used for the daily maintenance of your both your natural and synthetic extensions and wigs as it's sulfate free.
If you’re using human hair extensions the shampoo you'll be glad to know that the shampoo helps condition the hair too!
My hair extensions became really smooth and it was super easy to detangle my extensions after using this one.
Usually I'm against silicones in shampoos as they cause buildup on hair, but as you're using this shampoo on just extensions, silicones are actually a bonus here.
They make tape extensions silky smooth and also prevent them from getting knotted. However, I would still recommend using a clarifying shampoo once a while just to get rid of the buildup.
Pros:
- Gentle, low salt formula that won't strip glue from tape extensions
- Sulfate-free, so it won't leave your Remy extensions looking dry
- Suitable for wigs and natural hair both as it's cleansing yet gentle
- Removes tangles from extensions as it has a high slip
- Makes your hair smooth and shiny as it contains silicones
Cons:
- Strong smell that doesn't suit everyone
- Silicones can cause product buildup overtime
My Ratings:
- Formula - 4.5/5
- Ability To Cleanse - 4/5
- Price - 3.5/5
RemySoft Moisturelab Hydrating Cleanser
Best Hydrating Shampoo For Tape Extensions
I was really intrigued by this RemySoft shampoo for tape extensions because unlike other shampoos (like Matrix for example) this is specifically formulated for wigs. Or as the name suggests Remy hair to be more precise.
On using I found that the RemySoft cleanser and cream is a highly nourishing combo that will protect and maintain your extensions.
My Remy tape extensions looked soft and silky after use. And there wasn't a tangle in sight.
This shampoo is color safe so you can use this with colored hair or extensions without worrying about the color washing off.
I was used to my tape extensions getting a lot of knots and tangles but it drastically reduced after using the shampoo and hair cream.
This product is great if you spend a lot of time outdoors since it protects your hair from the harmful UVA and UVB rays of the sun.
Now coming to the downside of this product. The shampoo is a bit too moisturizing for my liking. I feel it doesn't clarify hair extensions well enough. So all the product buildup makes it a bit unruly.
I'd suggest using a clarifying shampoo once a while (like 3 weeks or so) to combat this issue.
Pros:
- Sulfate-free shampoo is that safe on natural extensions as it doesn't strip moisture
- Colour safe as the sulfate-free formula won't strip dye from extensions
- Offers sun protection as the UV filters keep extensions from looking dull
- Moisturises natural hair extensions as it contains jojoba seed oil
- Pleasants smell that is not overwhelming like other shampoos
Cons:
- Might make your hair unruly as it contains alcohol and silicones
My Ratings:
- Formula - 4.5/5
- Ability To Cleanse - 4.5/5
- Price - 4/5
B3 Brazillian Bondbuilder Extension
Best Damage Repair Shampoo For Tape Extensions
I often had an issue with surfactants from shampoo leaving the glue on the tape extensions weaker.
So I was really happy to see that this cleanser leaves your extensions squeaky clean without removing the adhesives or bonds from them.
You do not have to worry about your hair getting dried out after using this one.
Although this is a little on the pricier side, it does the job. So I didn’t mind!
I notice that my hair extensions have become smoother and breakage on them has also reduced. It also has a pleasant scent that leaves your hair smelling fresh.
This shampoo is formulated to increase the lifespan of your extensions by strengthening your hair. So that was a huge plus for me as extensions can be really prone to wear and tear.
If you have extensions that are damaged, you should definitely give this shampoo a try.
The biggest plus about this shampoo is that it's both clarifying and moisturizing. So unlike Matrix or Remysoft you won't have to compromise with one of the two.
Again, the only issue seems to be the price. If you're someone who wears tape extensions religiously then I'd say for it. The shampoo might be worth it.
But if you're a casual wearer like me, I'd say select RemySoft or Brandywine shampoos instead.
Pros:
- Reinforced fiber strength helps prevent damage on natural hair extensions
- Removes build-up from hairsprays and serums on extensions
- Sulfate-free shampoo so it won't dry out natural hair
- Protects against color fade as it doesn't strip dye
- Lathers well so you'll need only a little bit of the product
Cons:
- Expensive compared to other shampoos for tape extensions
My Ratings:
- Formula - 5/5
- Ability To Cleanse - 4.5/5
- Price - 3/5
Brandywine Non-Static Shampoo
Best Sulfate-Free Shampoo For Tape Extensions
The Brandywine hair care products are great budget-friendly options for tape extensions.
This shampoo is formulated to take care of synthetic and natural hair extensions.
But it has a very strong chemical smell that might be appealing to some people.
This works really well on tape extensions and helps in maintaining them.
It has a thick creamy consistency that spreads evenly on your hair.
I tried it with the same conditioner from the brand which helped in making my extensions soft and manageable.
The best part is that these products are all-natural.
Pros:
- Budget-friendly
- Makes hair manageable
- Contains natural ingredients
- Suitable for wigs
- Sulfate-free
Cons:
- Strong smell
Damila Shampoo and Conditioner Set
Best Color Safe Shampoo For Tape Extensions
The Damila Shampoo and Conditioner is a sulfate-free range that is suitable for tape extensions.
Its main ingredient is keratin which is a protein that helps in strengthening your hair and making it shiny.
If you have color treated or keratin-treated hair, you can use this shampoo since it will not remove the keratin complex from your strands.
It also helps in preserving your hair color.
This product cleans my scalp gently without disturbing the tape extensions.
I usually feel some sort of stickiness on the scalp after using shampoo on my keratin-treated hair. But I did not have such issues with this product
It is also a budget-friendly option since you get both the shampoo and conditioner as a combo.
Pros:
- Sulfate and salt-free
- Colour safe
- Makes the extension durable
- Moisturises your hair
- Pleasant smell
- Contains keratin
Cons:
- Does not lather much
DermaChange Natural Shampoo And Conditioner
Best Clarifying Shampoo For Tape Extensions
DermaChange offers natural shampoos and conditioners that are suitable for human hair tape extensions.
It is packed with nutrients that can repair damaged hair and encourage hair growth.
My hair recovered from the chemical color damage after using this combo. It also reduced hair fall to a great extent.
When you add extensions to colored and chemically treated, it could lead to breakage.
This combo will help in avoiding such situations and repairing your hair. It is free of harmful ingredients like sulfates and parabens.
The ingredients list boasts of orange peel, coconut oil, cassava root, vitamin B5, and Vitamin E.
Pros:
- Repairs damaged hair
- Sulfate-free
- Paraben-free
- Balances ph of the scalp
- Cruelty-free
- Natural
- Hypoallergenic
Cons:
- Might leave a residue
Pantene Rosewater Shampoo
Best Drugstore Shampoo For Tape Extensions
The Pantene rosewater shampoo is enriched with Vitamin B5 which makes your hair smooth and conditioned.
It has a thin consistency that lathers well to remove any buildup from your scalp.
I loved the pleasant smell of rose which is soothing to your senses. This is also a great option if you are on a tight budget.
The main ingredients in this shampoo are rose, Lily of the valley, and mint. The antioxidants help in maintaining your tape extensions.
If you have dry and dehydrated hair, it helps in supplying moisture.
But this shampoo is not recommended for people with oily hair since it could weigh down your hair.
The best part about this shampoo is that it does not contain harsh ingredients like sulfates and parabens.
There are no mineral oils, silicones, and dyes. So it’s a fantastic option for people with sensitive scalps.
Pros:
- Pleasant smell
- Sulfate-free
- Paraben-free
- Mineral oil free
- Silicone free
- Moisturizes dry hair
- Budget-friendly
Cons:
- Might weigh down your
- Might make your hair greasy
- Not suitable for oily hair
Here is a quick comparison of the top shampoos for tape extensions!
Top Shampoos For Hair Extensions | Matrix Total Results Length Goals Shampoo | RemySoft Moisturelab Hydrating Cleanser | B3 Brazllian Bondbuilder Extension Shampoo | Brandywine Non-Static Shampoo | Damila Shampoo and Conditioner Set | DermaChange Natural Shampoo And Conditioner | Pantene Rosewater Shampoo |
Images | |||||||
Price | Affordable | Slightly Expensive | Very Expensive | Affordable | Very Affordable | Slightly Expensive | Slightly Expensive |
Formula | 4/5 | 4.5/5 | 4.5/5 | 5/5 | 4.5/5 | 4.5/5 | 4.5/5 |
Cleansing Power | 4.5/5 | 4/5 | 4.5/5 | 3.5/5 | 4.5/5 | 3.5/5 | 3.5/5 |
Ingredients Quality | 4.5/5 | 4.5/5 | 3.5/5 | 5/5 | 3/5 | 4.5/5 | 4.5/5 |
Sulfate-Free | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | No | Yes | Yes |
Suitable For Human Hair Extensions? | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | Yes |
How to select the best shampoo for tape extensions?
There are so many tape extension-friendly shampoos available in the market. So it might get a little confusing to select the right one for your hair.
We have listed down some of the things you should consider before purchasing shampoo for your tape-in extensions.
Hair type- This is definitely something you should consider before buying any type of shampoo.
Selecting a shampoo that suits your hair texture and needs can go a long way in making it strong and healthy.
When you select tape in hair extensions, you should pick one that is very similar to your hair texture and color.
So what works for your natural hair is mostly work for your extensions.
Ingredients- It is always good to choose shampoos that are free of harmful ingredients like sulfates, parabens, phthalates, and mineral oils.
These can damage your extensions and natural hair. But you should look out for nourishing ingredients like shea butter, Moroccan oil, etc.
Such ingredients will moisturize and strengthen your hair to prevent damage.
Look for shampoos with organic and plant-derived ingredients that are not harsh for your hair.
Price- tape in extension-friendly shampoos can be a little on the pricier side but it is definitely worth your investment.
You spend a lot of money getting these tape-in extensions so you have to make sure that they last long.
Despite the price tag, these shampoos will help in ensuring the longevity of your extensions.
This doesn’t mean that there are cheaper alternatives.
You can definitely find drugstore shampoos that are suitable for your tape-in extensions.
Although extensions are not your actual hair, you have to take good care of them. When you use regular shampoo on your extensions, it could fall off quicker.
Shampoos contain harsh chemicals that might not react well with the tape. So it is important to select a shampoo that will protect your extensions.
I hope this list of reviews for the best shampoo for tape extensions will help you find the right product for you!
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