Key Factors to Keep in Mind When Purchasing Curly Tape-In Hair Extensions

Curly tape-in hair extensions are a favorite for adding volume, length, and curl definition—while keeping a natural look and comfort. In 2025, tape-ins are more accessible than ever, but not all curly extensions are the same. Choosing the wrong type can lead to poor blending, discomfort, or even damage to your natural hair.

Whether you’re buying for yourself or stocking up for a business, knowing what to look for ensures you get high-quality, long-lasting results. This guide covers the key factors to consider, like texture matching, adhesive strength, and maintenance.

Let’s break it down so you can invest wisely and wear with confidence.

What Are Curly Tape-In Hair Extensions?

Tape-in extensions are pre-taped hair wefts applied by “sandwiching” them around small sections of natural hair using medical-grade adhesive.

What sets curly tape-ins apart is their pre-formed curl pattern, designed to blend effortlessly with naturally curly or textured hair. These extensions are ideal for adding volume to thin curls, lengthening short styles, and blending with 3B to 4A hair types. They also enhance twist-outs, braid-outs, and wash-and-go looks.

To achieve the best results, it’s essential to select the right curl pattern, invest in high-quality extensions, and use proper application techniques.

Types of Curly Tape-In Extensions

Curly tape-in extensions are a game-changer for anyone looking to add volume, length, or texture to their natural curls without the bulk of traditional sew-ins. However, not all curly tape-ins are the same. Understanding the different types available helps you choose the best match for your curl pattern, lifestyle, and desired look.

1. 3A to 3C Tape-In Extensions

These extensions feature loose to well-defined spiral curls with medium density. 3A tape-ins typically have a soft, silky feel and larger loops, ideal for those with looser curl types. 3B and 3C offer tighter, springier curls with more volume. These are excellent for blending with naturally curly or wavy hair, especially when you want bounce without excessive shrinkage.

2. 4A to 4C Tape-In Extensions

4A, 4B, and 4C tape-in extensions are designed for coily and kinky textures. 4A has a defined “S” curl, while 4B and 4C are more tightly coiled, with 4C being the densest and most shrinkage-prone. These textures mimic natural hair in its truest form and are perfect for those wanting a seamless blend with afro-textured hair. Many brands now offer steam-processed virgin hair in these curl types to maintain integrity and shape.

3. Steam-Processed Curly Tape-Ins

Most curly tape-ins are created through a steam-setting process where virgin human hair is curled using heat and moisture. This method preserves the softness and cuticle alignment of the hair, ensuring durability while holding the curl shape. Steam-processed extensions can mimic everything from loose curls to tightly coiled textures, and they blend better with real curl patterns compared to chemically processed or synthetic versions.

4. Raw or Unprocessed Curly Tape-Ins

Raw curly tape-ins are less common but highly sought after. These are cut from a single donor and never altered, maintaining their natural texture. While they offer unmatched realism, they may be less consistent in curl pattern and often come at a higher price point.

5. Synthetic Curly Tape-Ins

These are typically more affordable but offer less flexibility. They cannot withstand heat styling and often lack the soft texture and longevity of human hair. They’re best for short-term use or special occasions, not daily wear.

Choosing the right type of curly tape-in extension depends on your hair’s texture, styling goals, and maintenance preferences.

Key Factors to Consider When Buying Curly Tape-In Hair Extensions

There are several key factors to consider when purchasing curly tape-in hair extensions. These include:

1. Match the Curl Pattern—Don’t Compromise on Texture

This is the #1 rule when buying curly tape-ins: the curl pattern must match your natural hair. A mismatch in texture is obvious and can ruin even the best installation.

Common Curl Types to Match:

• 3B – Loose springy ringlets
• 3C – Tight corkscrew curls
• 4A – Soft, defined coils
• 4B/4C – Kinkier, tighter coils (less common in tape-ins)

The best curly tape-ins mimic the curl pattern, density, and frizz level of natural hair. Brands like Joice Hair offer multiple curl textures to match different curl types—perfect for seamless blending.

Pro Tip: Look for product photos or videos showing the curls both wet and dry. This reveals how well they’ll blend with your natural curl pattern.

2. Choose 100% Human Hair—Synthetic Just Doesn’t Cut It

While synthetic curly tape-ins exist, they’re not ideal for long-term use or styling. You want 100% human hair—preferably virgin or raw quality—for the most natural, durable, and versatile finish.

Benefits of Human Hair:

• Can be dyed, deep conditioned, and heat styled
• Moves and feels like real hair
• Blends seamlessly with your curls
• Lasts 6–12 weeks with proper care

Joice Hair, for example, uses cuticle-aligned human hair that resists tangling and shedding, making it a trusted vendor for curly tape-in extensions.

3. Consider the Adhesive Quality—Not All Tapes Are Equal

The success of tape-in extensions hinges on the adhesive tape used. Poor-quality tape can cause:

• Slippage within days
• Damage to natural hair during removal
• Visibility through your curls

What to Look For:

• Medical-grade adhesive that’s latex-free and hypoallergenic
• Strong initial hold, but gentle removal with alcohol-based remover
• Thin, discreet tape strips for less bulk

Look for tape-ins with invisible or clear tabs and avoid overly thick bands that don’t lie flat against the scalp.

4. Length and Volume: Choose Wisely Based on Curl Shrinkage

Curly hair shrinks when dry—sometimes up to 60%. So, if you’re looking to add real length with tape-ins, you need to compensate for shrinkage.

Sizing Tips:

• If you want shoulder-length curls, go for 18–20″ extensions
• For a fuller look, you’ll need 2–3 packs depending on hair thickness
• Volume is often more important than length in curly styles—prioritize density

Many brands now offer double-drawn hair (thicker from root to tip) to help curly tape-ins look natural and full.

5. Blending Techniques—How Well Will It Integrate with Your Hair?

Blending curly tape-ins takes a bit of finesse, especially at the roots where the tapes sit. A poor blend gives away the illusion and can make your style look bulky or uneven.

Tips for Perfect Blending:

• Install underneath the crown area—never on top
• Use edge control and curl cream to blend the leave-out
• Finger coil or twist out your leave-out with the extensions for cohesion
• Avoid styles that pull too tightly on the bonds

Stylists who are trained in curly hair tape-in methods can help you achieve a flawless, natural finish.

6. Color Matching: Get It Right the First Time

Matching color in curly hair is tricky because dyeing curly extensions can loosen the curl pattern. It’s best to buy tape-ins that are already colored or matched to your hair.

Best Practice:

• Stick with natural colors—1B, 2, or dark brown tones
• If you must color, only work with virgin human hair
• Ask your vendor for a color ring or sample before purchase

Brands like Joice Hair offer natural tones that match the most common curly hair colors without looking dyed or artificial.

7. Lifespan and Reusability: Is It Worth the Price?

High-quality curly tape-ins are an investment. You want to ensure they can be reused for multiple installations without losing curl integrity.

What to Expect:

• Top-quality tape-ins last 6–10 weeks per install
• With good care, you can reuse them 2–3 times
• You may need to re-tape the wefts before reinstallation

If you’re buying from a trusted supplier like Joice Hair, the hair quality and durability will allow multiple uses—making the price tag worth it.

8. Vendor Reputation and Transparency

Last but definitely not least: where you buy matters. The hair extension market is flooded with knockoffs and mislabeled products. Don’t risk your curls on an unknown brand.

What a Good Vendor Offers:

• Transparent product descriptions (curl type, origin, care info)
• Real customer photos and reviews
• Clear return/exchange policy
• Consistent supply (especially for business buyers)
• Customer support that answers questions

Why Joice Hair Is a Top Choice:

Joice Hair is one of the few brands that consistently delivers premium curly tape-ins tailored to natural textures. With a focus on quality, curl integrity, and customer satisfaction, they’re a go-to for anyone serious about their curly extension game.

Installation Method and Professional Help for Curly Tape-In Hair Extensions

Installing curly tape-in hair extensions requires precision, patience, and a strong understanding of curl behavior. Unlike straight extensions, curly textures demand extra care to ensure the hair lays flat, blends naturally, and maintains curl integrity.

While some may attempt DIY application, professional installation is highly recommended for best results—especially with textured hair types like 3C to 4C.

How Tape-In Installation Works

Tape-in extensions come with thin, adhesive-backed wefts that are “taped” to small sections of your natural hair. The process involves sandwiching your real hair between two extension wefts, allowing for a flat, seamless attachment close to the scalp. For curly textures, placement must be exact to ensure the wefts don’t disrupt your natural curl pattern or cause excessive tension at the roots.

Each extension is placed strategically—about 1/4 inch from the scalp—to allow natural movement and avoid pulling. The entire process takes about 1 to 2 hours depending on the number of wefts and desired fullness. On average, tape-ins last 6 to 8 weeks before needing adjustment or reapplication.

Why Professional Help Matters

A professional stylist experienced in curly hair and tape-in methods can make a world of difference. They will properly section the hair, avoid sensitive areas, and ensure your curl patterns align for a natural look. Incorrect placement can lead to slipping wefts, breakage, or an uneven appearance—especially with tight curls or 4C textures, where blending is key.

Professionals also understand how to prep the scalp, apply tapes cleanly, and advise on aftercare—like how long to wait before washing or which products to avoid. For curly tape-ins, avoiding oils and heavy conditioners near the adhesive is crucial to prevent loosening.

Reusability and Maintenance

High-quality virgin hair tape-ins are reusable for up to three applications with proper removal and retaping. A stylist can safely detach the wefts using alcohol-based solutions that don’t damage your natural hair or compromise the tape.

While it might be tempting to try tape-in installation at home, improper application can shorten the lifespan of your extensions and damage your own hair. Investing in a professional ensures a secure, beautiful outcome and preserves the longevity of both your tape-ins and your natural curls.

Tips to Take Care of Tape-In Hair Extensions

Proper maintenance and care are key to keeping your tape-in hair extensions looking their best. Here are some tips to help you take care of your new locks:

1. Brush gently

Gently brush your hair from the bottom up, starting at the ends and working your way up to the roots. Avoid brushing harshly or pulling on the extensions, as this can cause them to become loose or fall out.

2. Use sulfate-free products

Sulfates can damage both your natural hair and your tape-in extensions, causing them to dry out and lose their luster. Opt for sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners specifically designed for use with hair extensions to keep them looking healthy and shiny.

3. Avoid heat styling

Excessive heat can also damage your tape-in extensions, causing them to become brittle and break. It’s best to avoid using hot tools such as straighteners or curling irons on your extensions whenever possible. If you do use heat styling, make sure to use a heat protectant spray and keep the temperature low.

4. Sleep with a loose braid

To prevent tangling and matting of your tape-in extensions while you sleep, loosely braid your hair before going to bed. This will also help maintain the shape and smoothness of the extensions.

5. Wash gently and carefully

When washing your hair with tape-in extensions, make sure to wash gently and avoid scrubbing or rubbing the extensions. Use a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner, and avoid applying products directly onto the tapes. Instead, concentrate on massaging the scalp and roots of your hair.

6. Use oils for hydration

To keep your tape-in extensions hydrated and nourished, use natural oils such as argan oil or coconut oil. Apply a small amount to the ends of your hair before styling or when needed.

FAQs

What should I look for when buying curly tape-in hair extensions?

When buying hair extensions, focus on quality hair extensions made from remy hair or high quality human hair. These provide a natural appearance, last longer, and blend better with your natural strands. For the best match, choose extensions that match your curly hair texture, whether you have thick hair, fine hair, or shorter hair. Avoid synthetic extensions if you want to use heat styling tools.

Are tape-in extensions suitable for fine or thinning hair?

Yes! Curly hair extensions are great for fine or thinning hair, especially when made from real human hair. Tape-ins lie flat against the scalp, making them an excellent choice for subtle hair volume. A professional hairstylist can ensure a proper installation process and help minimize frizz while protecting hair growth and reducing the risk of hair loss.

Can I style and dye curly tape-in extensions?

Absolutely. If you’re wearing hair extensions made of remy hair, you can use a flat iron, blow dryer, or even consider dyeing extensions to match shades like ash blonde. Just remember to use a leave-in conditioner and always air dry when possible to maintain softness.

Are tape-ins better than clip-ins or halo extensions?

Tape-in extensions offer a semi-permanent hair extension method, ideal for long-term wear. Unlike clip in extensions or halo extensions, tape-ins are designed to stay put for weeks and feel more natural in just a few minutes. They’re the perfect hair extensions for those wanting desired length and volume with low maintenance.

Conclusion

Curly tape-in extensions bring a perfect blend of style, versatility, and natural beauty—provided you select the right curl pattern, quality, and vendor. Avoid rushing the decision or falling for gimmicks.

To ensure flawless results, prioritize curl pattern accuracy, durable adhesive, premium human hair, and a vendor with expertise in textured hair, such as Joice Hair. With the right tape-ins and proper care, your curly look can stay stunning and turn heads for weeks.

Whether you’re new to tape-ins or a seasoned stylist, keeping these key considerations in mind will help you avoid costly mistakes and fully enjoy the transformative power of curly tape-in extensions.