FREE COLOUR MATCHING
OVERNIGHT SHIPPING BEFORE 2PM
30 DAY RETURNS & EXCHANGES

Ultra Seamless Tape-In Hair Extensions: The Complete NZ Guide

Quick answer

Ultra seamless tape in extensions are 100% Remy human hair wefts, 4cm wide, bonded above and below a section of your own hair in a sandwich. The bond is thinner and lighter than traditional tape, so it lies flat and stays hidden. A stylist installs them, and they sit 8 to 10 weeks before repositioning.

Most people asking us about tape-ins have already had a bad experience with a bulky bond, or have fine hair and been told extensions are not for them. Ultra seamless tape-ins exist for that gap. This guide covers what they are, the weights and lengths Superior Hair actually makes, who they suit, how installation and the move-up cycle work, and the aftercare that decides whether you get one wear out of a set or four.

New to semi-permanent extensions?

Tape-ins are one of several professionally installed methods, alongside nano tips, hot fusion U-tips and wefts. Seeing them side by side makes the choice a lot clearer.

Browse the semi-permanent extension range →

What ultra seamless tape-in extensions actually are

An ultra seamless tape-in is a flat weft of human hair, 4cm wide, with a thin adhesive strip along the top edge. Your stylist takes a fine section of your own hair, places one weft underneath and one on top, and presses them together. Your hair sits sealed between the two. That is the sandwich, and it is why tape-ins hold without beads, heat or thread.

The word ultra seamless refers to the bond itself. A traditional tape weft has a thicker adhesive base and a visible sew line where the hair is attached. Ultra seamless bonds are significantly smaller and lighter, with no sew line, so the weft lies flush against the head instead of standing off it. Run your fingers over a well-placed set and you feel a slight ridge, not a lump.

The hair matters as much as the bond. Every Superior Hair set is 100% Remy human hair, so the cuticles are intact and all running the same direction from root to tip. That is not a marketing distinction. Cuticles facing opposite ways catch on each other, and that is what leaves a set matted at the nape after three washes.

Lengths, grams and how a set is built

Every pack of Superior Hair ultra seamless tape-ins contains 10 wefts, which is 5 sandwiches. The wefts are 4cm wide across all lengths, so what changes between sizes is the weight of hair on each weft.

Length Total pack weight Per weft Typically chosen for
14 inch 22g 2.2g Thickness through a bob or lob, minimal added length
18 inch 28g 2.8g Most requested; roughly collarbone to mid-chest
22 inch 30g 3.0g Noticeable added length, still manageable weight
26 inch 35g 3.5g Dramatic length; needs natural density to carry it

Notice how little the weight climbs relative to length. A 26 inch weft carries 3.5g against 2.2g at 14 inch, because the hair gets longer rather than thicker. That is what keeps long tape-ins from dragging at the root.

How many packs you need is not something to work out from a website. It depends on your natural density, your target length, and how much of the head your stylist can safely section. That is a consultation decision. Bring photos of the result you want, not a pack count.

Who they suit, and who should look at something else

Ultra seamless tape-ins suit almost every hair type, thin through to thick. They are the least damaging semi-permanent method because there is no heat, no bead compressing the hair shaft and no single-strand tension point. The load spreads across a 4cm bond instead of concentrating.

They are not automatically the right call, though. If your hair is genuinely fine and you can see scalp through it when it is parted, an even thinner bond will hide better. That is what the invisi-tape skin weft range is built for: the bond mimics hair emerging from the scalp, and the wefts come in 18 to 20 inch at 28g. The tradeoff is fewer length options and up to three reapplications rather than four.

Ultra seamless tape-in Invisi-tape skin weft
Lengths 14, 18, 22 and 26 inch 18 to 20 inch
Wear per application 8 to 10 weeks 6 to 10 weeks
Reapplications Up to four with proper care Up to three with proper care
Best for Most hair types wanting length and thickness Finer hair where bond visibility is the priority

Two other honest limits. Tape-ins need enough hair at the sides and nape to anchor into and stay covered, so very short hair usually has to grow first. And if you are dealing with active shedding or patchy loss rather than simply wanting more hair, see a doctor before adding weight at the root.

Budget is a real constraint too, and it need not mean going without. The value grade ultra seamless tape-in range uses the same bond construction at a lower price point, which suits a first set or an occasional wearer.

How installation works

Ultra seamless tape-ins are installed by a salon professional. Bond placement decides whether the set is invisible or obvious, and how much tension sits on each section. Too close to the parting, the bonds show. Too close to the scalp, they pull. Sectioned too thick, they slip.

Come with freshly washed hair and no product in it. Residue, silicone or oil on the hair shaft weakens the adhesive and the set loosens early. Do not colour or chemically treat your hair in the 24 hours before application, or in the 48 hours after.

Your stylist works in horizontal rows from the nape upward, taking fine sections, placing the lower weft, laying your hair over it and sealing the upper weft on top. Rows stop well short of the parting and hairline so nothing shows when your hair moves. If you are booking through us, the extension installation service page sets out how appointments run.

One rule people forget: wait at least 24 hours before washing, so the adhesive cures fully, and keep your hair down for the first week rather than tying it up.

Not sure which shade you need?

There are over forty colours in the ultra seamless range, including root-shadowed and highlighted blends. The colour guide shows every shade photographed on real hair so you can narrow it down before you order.

See the ultra seamless colour guide

Colour matching without guessing

More sets look wrong because of colour than anything structural. Match to your mid-lengths and ends rather than your roots, since that is where the extension hair sits. If you wear a shadowed or grown-out root, matching to the root leaves the extensions reading too dark from the ears down.

Judge shades in daylight, never under bathroom lighting, and hold the hair flat against your own rather than in front of it. Multi-tonal hair rarely matches a single shade, which is why the range includes blended and highlighted options like #2 dark brown alongside two-tone mixes. Mixing two shades across a set is normal and usually looks more natural than one flat colour.

If you are ordering online and want certainty, use the colour match service. Send a daylight photo of your hair down and dry, and you get a recommendation back rather than a coin flip.

How long they last and the move-up cycle

There are two timelines here and people mix them up constantly. The first is how long a set stays in before it needs repositioning: 8 to 10 weeks. Your own hair grows during that time, so the bonds travel down away from the scalp and start to become visible and to swing. At that point your stylist removes them, cleans the bonds, retapes and reinstalls closer to the root. That is a move-up, not a new set.

The second is the life of the hair itself. Ultra seamless tape-ins are reusable for up to four applications with proper care, so one set of hair can carry you through several move-up cycles. Care is doing real work in that sentence. A set that gets brushed wet, washed daily and conditioned at the bonds will not reach four. For a fuller breakdown, read how long tape-in extensions last.

Aftercare that protects the bonds

Nearly every aftercare rule traces back to two facts: adhesive dissolves in oil, and wet hair stretches.

Wash less than you think you need to. Use a sulphate-free shampoo and alcohol-free products, and reach for dry shampoo between washes instead of washing daily. Keep conditioner and masks on the mid-lengths and ends, never near the roots or the bonds.

Watch your oils. Coconut oil based products break down tape adhesive. Argan oil based ones are fine. This is the single most common cause of a set slipping weeks early.

Never brush wet hair. A brush through wet hair pulls straight at the bonds. Use an extensions-friendly brush on dry hair, hold above the bond, and work from the ends up. Do not rub with a towel either.

Heat protectant, and keep heat off the bonds. The hair is human and will take a straightener or a wand, but the adhesive will soften if you run a hot tool over it. Style from below the bond line and always use a protectant.

Braid at night. A loose braid stops eight hours of friction turning into tangling at the nape. More detail in our complete tape-in aftercare guide.

What they cost over time

The honest way to think about cost is per year, not per purchase. There are three parts: the hair, the installation, and the move-up appointments every 8 to 10 weeks. The hair you buy once and reuse up to four times. The appointments repeat.

That is why aftercare carries a dollar value. Getting four applications out of a set instead of two halves the hair cost over the same period, and the difference is mostly which shampoo you used and whether oil got near the bonds.

If the ongoing appointment commitment does not suit you, that is a fair conclusion. Clip-ins give you length for an event with no salon visit and no cycle, and starting there and moving to tape-ins later is perfectly normal.

Ready to choose your set?

Four lengths, over forty colours, 100% Remy human hair, and the least damaging semi-permanent bond we make.

Shop ultra seamless tape-in extensions →

Frequently asked questions

Can I install ultra seamless tape in extensions myself?

No. Ultra seamless tape-ins should be installed by a salon professional. Bond placement determines whether the set stays hidden and how tension is distributed across your natural hair, and sectioning too thickly causes slipping. Removal also requires a proper bond remover. Book with a trained stylist rather than attempting it at home.

How long do ultra seamless tape in extensions last?

Each application sits 8 to 10 weeks before the bonds need repositioning closer to the root. The hair itself is reusable for up to four applications with proper care, so a single set can carry through several move-up cycles before it needs replacing. Poor aftercare, particularly oil-based products, shortens both timelines.

Do ultra seamless tape in extensions damage your hair?

They are the least damaging of the semi-permanent methods because there is no heat, no bead and no single-strand tension point. The load spreads across a 4cm bond. Damage usually comes from sections taken too small for the weft weight, bonds left in past 10 weeks, or brushing wet hair, rather than from the method itself.

What is the difference between ultra seamless and invisi-tape extensions?

Ultra seamless tape-ins come in 14, 18, 22 and 26 inch, wear 8 to 10 weeks and reapply up to four times. Invisi-tape skin wefts use an even thinner bond designed to mimic hair growing from the scalp, come in 18 to 20 inch, wear 6 to 10 weeks and reapply up to three times. Choose invisi-tape if bond visibility on fine hair is your main concern.

How many wefts come in a pack?

Each pack contains 10 wefts, which makes 5 sandwiches, with every weft 4cm wide. Pack weights run 22g at 14 inch, 28g at 18 inch, 30g at 22 inch and 35g at 26 inch. How many packs a full head needs depends on your natural density and target length, so confirm it at consultation.

Can I colour ultra seamless tape in extensions?

The hair is 100% Remy human hair, so a stylist can tone or darken it, but never lighten it and never let colour touch the bonds. Do not colour your own hair in the 24 hours before application or the 48 hours after. Any colour work on the extensions should be done by a professional, off the head where possible.

 

News

Image of hair extension affected by sunscreen. Brassy tones evident on the right side of hair.

A hair extension’s worst enemy? Sunscreen.

WHY ARE MY NANO BEADS LOSING THEIR COLOUR?

WHY ARE MY NANO BEADS LOSING THEIR COLOUR?

There are a few reasons why nano beads can lose their colour, causing them to turn copper/gold. If you or your client’s beads turn gold, the following information can help you understand why.  Shampoo ingredients The most common cause of colour loss in nano beads is due to the additives found in shampoos. Even salon quality shampoos, including dry shampoo can contain these additives; affecting beads only after a few washes. The purpose of additives in shampoo is to create a lather, act as a thickening agent or even to keep them from freezing during shipping. If you suspect your shampoo is the cause of the colour loss, you may wish to experiment with another.  Styling Heating tools, such as straighteners, blow dryers and curling irons can all cause nano beads to lose their colour. Frequently touching the beads with these tools will cause the paint to soften and chip away. To prevent this from happening, avoid directly touching the beads with the tool.  Medications Chemicals in certain medications are carried to the hair follicle through the bloodstream, causing nano beads to lose their colour. These toxins can stay in the hair follicle for months and will not wash out. Medications, like antidepressants, birth controls, and acne medications, can induce colour change, as can Vitamin A, and narcotics.  

Learn more
woman travelling with beautiful hair

TRAVEL HAIRSTYLES - EXTENSION EDITION

Craving to travel the world again? Sick of quarantining? Well, we have some travel hairstyles to get you excited for when you get to leave your bubble once again! Half up half down This is the perfect hairstyle for if you've been so busy packing, that you've accidentally forgotten to wash your hair. It's easy, it's trendy, it's comfy...what more could you ask for?! Braids Any type of braid is perfect for a lengthy plane ride. Braiding causes much less damage compared to ponytails and still looks amazing. There are so many braids to choose from to suit your braiding expertise, for example, you could go for just the standard simple yet cute braid, you could test yourself by trying out a fishtail braid or you could show off your skill and rock two Dutch braids! The options are endless :) Use accessories You could add a scarf which will automatically have you looking Instagram ready even if inside you’re really just wanting to get on and off the plane in the most fastest, comfortable way possible. You could even add some clips to really glam it up or just settle for 1 for a cute and easy look!    High pony High ponytails are one of the most common hairstyles to be done around the world. They're easy, they can be kept loose and they get your hair out of the way and sometimes that’s all you wish for. If your extensions allow you to, you could even add in a braid to your ponytail look. Utilise Headbands! Headbands are super cute and super comfortable. They keep your wispies out of your face which is always very helpful! Headbands also make up for our messy hairstyles that take place when you have an early flight, especially messy buns! Beachy wave If you know that you don't want to do much with your hair in advance, you can always quickly put your hair in a braid before you go to sleep, then when you wake up in the morning your hair will be looking as messy pretty as it can get with that gorgeous natural beachy wave.

Learn more
TANGLING AND MATTING OF YOUR HAIR EXTENSIONS, AND WHAT YOU CAN DO ABOUT IT

TANGLING AND MATTING OF YOUR HAIR EXTENSIONS, AND WHAT YOU CAN DO ABOUT IT

Getting down to the root cause. Don’t you hate it when your hair extensions matt and tangle?Even though hair extensions are a beautiful hair solution, sometimes they can tangle and you don’t even know what’s causing it. The following are the most common causes: 1) Not taking good care of your hair extensions. Hair quality of the extensions is important. At Superiorhair, we vow to provide you with the highest tier hair extensions guaranteed. We assure you that you won’t have to worry about those low-quality hair extensions that have been overly processed that would tangle immediately to the exposure of water or poor weather conditions. 2) Low-quality hair products. Hair products can take a toll on your hair extensions. The use of proper hair products makes a huge difference in whether your hair will tangle and matt up or remain soft and manageable. Find out what products work best by doing your own personal thorough research or feel free to ask the crew at Superior Hair. We can’t stress it enough, it’s highly recommended that you don’t risk the condition of your hair for low-quality products. OTHER CAUSES INCLUDE:  3) Hair length. Super long hair is prone to tangling so it’s advisable to trim it in layers. 4) Dryness. Dry hair becomes brittle and can easily tangle up. NOW THAT YOU KNOW THE COMMON CAUSES OF TANGLING AND MATTING, LET’S FIND OUT HOW YOU CAN PREVENT THEM. 1) Regular brushing. It’s that simple! Regularly brushing your hair significantly reduces the chances of your hair tangling down the road.Always start from the ends and work towards the roots, and we advise you to do so when your hair is wet. If you opt to brush your hair when wet, be sure to use a wide-tooth comb. Tangling and knotting tend to happen mostly at the ends when hair is not brushed for days. 2) Use Sulphate-free hair products. We urge you to steer clear of hair products that contain sulphate. Using products containing sulphates can strip your extensions of their natural moisture, leaving them weak and looking dry. After shampooing, apply an appropriate moisturising hair product that would leave your extensions well hydrated. 3) Secure your hair at night Not tying up your hair can cause your extensions to rub against your pillow throughout the night. As a result, friction is created which leads you to wake up with tangled hair. If you’d rather not tie up your hair, it’s advisable to sleep on a satin or silk pillowcase. Protect your hair extensions and prevent tangling at all costs! 4) Detangle, Detangle. We cannot emphasize this enough. Also, please note that detangling is very different from brushing. This is what we mean: Brushing is a preventative measure whereas Detangling is a recovery measure if your hair extensions tangle up, it is important to take your time to detangle them while they’re wet. You can also use your fingers so that there’s less tension and pulling on the strands. Ensure the detangling is done thoroughly!  It’s up to you now! Preventing tangling and matting is not rocket science. All it takes is attention, proper care, and patience. Using proper products and tools go a long way. We hope this blog will help you to prevent tangling, matting, and shedding. Superior Hair hopes that you are now well equipped to handle tangling when it occurs. All the best on your glamourous looks!

Learn more
Hair Extensions, The Secret to Beautiful Hair Extensions

Hair Extensions, The Secret to Beautiful Hair Extensions

Hair еxtеnѕіоnѕ may require you to ѕtау in thе bеаutу salon fоr several hоurѕ, but consider the lоng hair that you've always dreamt of. Inѕtаnt hаіr еxtеnѕіоnѕ саn соntrіbutе to уоur hаіr lеngth, volume, thісknеѕѕ, or hіghlіghtѕ іn just a few hоurѕ. Understanding a little bіt аbоut hаіr еxtеnѕіоnѕ could ѕраrе уоur tіmе аnd money, еѕресіаllу wіth аll thе соntrаѕtіng tуреѕ аnd fаѕhіоnѕ аvаіlаblе on the mаrkеtрlасе tоdау. It’s a given that almost everybody prefers nаturаl humаn hair еxtеnѕіоnѕ because they’re uѕuаllу еаѕіеr tо take саrе оf than others оut there. If уоu аrе fаmіlіаr with аnd educated enough to рurсhаѕе уоur еxtеnѕіоnѕ, уоu wіll avert a lоt of the common basic errors. Extеnѕіоnѕ саn vary frоm hundrеdѕ tо еvеn thоuѕаndѕ оf dollars аnуwhеrе, ѕо іt mау bе wіѕе tо dedicate some of your time to learn аbоut thеm bеfоrе you make any purchases. Also, don't forget that at Superiorhair, we are always willing to help! Contact us and find оut about аll the processes оf аѕѕоrtеd hair extensions before you асԛuіrе them, nоt аftеr. A lоt оf реорlе аrе turnіng to extensions tо get thаt lооk they've аlwауѕ dreamt оf. And the dаndу thing іѕ that you can mаtсh thе еxtеnѕіоnѕ реrfесtlу tо уоur hаіr. Extensions are bесоmіng an іnсrеаѕіnglу соmmоn means of acquiring that іnѕtаntlу lоng beautiful hair. Extеnѕіоnѕ аrе реrfесt fоr trаnѕfоrmіng dumру hаіr into lоng hаіr, adding bulk tо thinning hаіr, dеvеlоріng lауеrѕ, a defective hаіrсut, аnd еvеn delivering hіghlіghtѕ and lоwlіghtѕ wіthоut chemical рrосеѕѕіng. Extensions аrе the оnlу means оf роѕѕеѕѕіng lоng, hеаlthу-lооkіng hаіr without асtuаllу growing it. In reality, hаіr еxtеnѕіоnѕ аrе grооvу fоr people whо think оf grоwіng thеіr hаіr оut into a long, ѕumрtuоuѕ mор frоm аn іnаdеԛuаtе amount of hair. Evеrуоnе wіll bе able tо get thе desired length оf hаіr thrоugh extensions.Hаіr еxtеnѕіоnѕ саll fоr natural humаn оr man-made hаіr binding directly to уоur nаturаl hair, uѕіng оnе оf thе mаnу different рrосеѕѕеѕ. Thе еxtеnѕіоnѕ оffеr a frеѕh, "lооkѕ like іt grеw оut of your hеаd" арреаrаnсе thаt can quickly rераіr hair problems lіkе fаultу hаіr cutting, thinning hair, оr just provide уоu with lоng hаіr as уоu lіkе.Extеnѕіоnѕ mау bе mаn-mаdе or genuine. Hair еxtеnѕіоnѕ are available іn many dіffеrеnt соlоrѕ, textures, ѕtуlеѕ, аnd lengths. Suсh a rаngе оf nаturаl human hair еxtеnѕіоnѕ across the bоаrd іѕ ассеѕѕіblе so thаt hairstylists can еаѕіlу match your hаіr соlоrіng and tеxturе wіth іt.At оnе point in time, hair extensions were соnѕіdеrеd thе ѕеrvісе of a rісh реrѕоn, hair еxtеnѕіоnѕ have bесоmе muсh cheaper fоr саѕuаl соnѕumеrѕ. Hаіr еxtеnѕіоnѕ are nоt оnе ѕіzе thаt fіtѕ all, аnd some types may nоt ѕuіt certain hаіr tеxturеѕ аnd сіrсumѕtаnсеѕ. Hair extensions саn add іnѕtаnt соnѕіѕtеnсу, lеngth to your appearance, аnd may also help іn situations оf hair thіnnіng аnd hair lоѕѕ. Hair еxtеnѕіоnѕ offer a ѕuреrfіnе hаіr асumіnаtе solution аnd can add a little zing tо thick, frіzzlу, оr сrіnklу hаіr іn whаtеvеr color or ѕtуlе.

Learn more
HOW TO INSTALL YOUR CLIP IN EXTENSIONS PERFECTLY

HOW TO INSTALL YOUR CLIP IN EXTENSIONS PERFECTLY

Hair extensions can be difficult to install at first. But, with enough practice, they should only take up 5 mins of your time in the morning. They’re easy, they make you look gorgeous and do zero damage to your hair. What’s there not to like about them? These are the a step by step guide to how to look flawless with your extensions.   Brushing The process of clip hair extensions starts with brushing your natural hair. Make sure you remove all the tangles using a good quality hairbrush to avoid any issues while using the extensions. Install the longer 4 piece weft. First, you want to install the longest weft. Separate your hair horizontally at the back of your head, around your ears. Make sure the separation is relatively straight, clip it up, and clip in your longest weft. This should be your 4 clip weft. Brush it out and start with the next longest piece. Install the next longest piece Your next longest piece could be a 3 clip or 4 clip, depending on your set of extensions. Separate your hair horizontally just above your ears and your first weft installed. Clip it up, and clip your extensions in. Work your way up until you only have the 1 clip/2 clip wefts left. Side wefts Your smaller wefts can be installed on the sides of your hair, and are adjustable to how you want your extensions to look.  Protect and Style Take out all of your holding clips, and brush it out. Spray on a heat protectant, and style it however you want!

Learn more
HOW TO MAINTAIN YOUR CLIP IN HAIR EXTENSIONS

HOW TO MAINTAIN YOUR CLIP IN HAIR EXTENSIONS

If we talk about current hairstyle trends, most girls are likely to have a love for thick and bouncy hair. Though not possible for all to have such growth, hair extensions are one such alternative that could help you reach your styling goals.However, the maximum number of women who get clip in hair extensions are likely to face a common issue and it is clipping and blending them. Today, we have brought you a thorough guide on the use of hair extensions when you need to flaunt your hair at your friend’s wedding or maybe your workplace event. Let’s start. The process of clip hair extensions starts with brushing your natural hair. Make sure you remove all the tangles using a good quality hairbrush to avoid any issues while using the extensions. Once you are done with your hair, all you need to do is pick the weft with maximum clips either it is 3 or 4. Also, you should get off any tangles in the weft before clipping into your hair. The next step which you need to take is to get a measure of the weft to find the perfect spot for clipping the extensions. However, make sure you keep your hair the way you normally comb them either middle or side partition. Once you are done brushing your hair the desired way, consider using a hair clip to hold the hair at partition. For instance, if you keep a bigger portion of your open at the back, use a 3 clip weft and hook it into the hair either directly or into the small sections created with the use of rubber bands. Once you are done clipping, you can form another section above the extension to tie another weft for extra thickness. When done with the bigger extensions, you could move to the side hair. This needs you to repeat a similar process where you have to separate the sections of your actual hair using the hair elastics. Then you can start with clipping of 2 weft or 1 weft hair extensions as per your requirement to bring volume in the hair. Actually, the use of hair elastic could help in securing the grip of the clips reducing any chances of falls. When done with clipping all the weft into your hair, you could simply remove the clips holding your natural hair to cover the extensions. Go for a good blend of the hair extensions in your hair using your fingers and you are all set to style according to your will. All the best!

Learn more
HOW TO CARE FOR YOUR HAIR EXTENSIONS AND WIGS

HOW TO CARE FOR YOUR HAIR EXTENSIONS AND WIGS

It is important that you take care of your hair extensions and wigs on a regular basis. While hair extensions and wigs made out of real human hair are easy to style and maintain, they require a certain level of care to lessen the growth of bacteria or fungus, prevent the build-up of dandruff and minimize any other negative effect it might have on your scalp.  Below are some simple yet effective ways for you to take care of your hair extension and wig. 1. Wash your Hair Extensions and wigs regularly: Everyday your hair extensions and wigs are exposed to a variety of elements as you go about your daily activities. To lessen or prevent the build-up of dirt or debris you need to practice proper hair care. You need to wash your hair extension every 2 to 3 days if they are permanently or semi-permanently attached to your head. If they are clipped in temporarily, then you need to wash your hair 1 to 2 times per month.  Additionally, you have to use the right hair care products and routine to prevent damage. This way, your hair will remain in good condition, look great and last longer. 2. Pack your hair before sleeping, exercising or swimming: It is extremely important that you pack your hair properly before sleeping, exercising or swimming. Your hair can tangle and form tight knots that are difficult to loosen during these activities. This can lead to hair damage and breakage as you try to fix the problem. Simply brushing your hair before braiding or making a ponytail will keep your hair in place & prevent any surprises. Remember, to dry your hair properly before you brush, style and braid your hair. This will not only protect your hair but make things easier and leave you with a sleek looking hair extension. 3. Avoid Excess Heat: Constant use of heated tools such as a hot roller or iron can damage the bonds or clips of your synthetic hair. To prevent hair damage and breakage, be sure to use a heat protection spray or allow your hair to air dry. Be sure to use your heating tools at the appropriate heating temperature to straighten your hair and limit any side effects whatsoever.    4. Use a conditioner regularly: Your hair extensions and wigs do not benefit from the moisturizing and protective benefits of the natural oils (sebum) your scalp produces. To prevent dryness you have to regularly apply restorative conditioner to your hair extensions and wigs, at least two to three times before shampooing. 5. Avoid Chemicals in your Hair Products:  The content of your hair care products also matters a lot. Chemicals like sulphates and parabens can strip your hair extensions and wigs from its oil, moisture and infiltrate your body. Hair Care Products that are sulphate, paraben and sodium chloride-free will leave your hair extensions in perfect condition while protecting you from any harmful side effects.

Learn more
COMMON HAIR EXTENSION MYTHS DEBUNKED

COMMON HAIR EXTENSION MYTHS DEBUNKED

In the past decade, hair extensions have become more accessible to women. Hair extensions are available in all kinds of textures, colours and types. One can use them to fake a bang, salvage a haircut that went wrong or elevate their daily look. However, there have been several concerns amongst the topic of hair extensions, making some of us hold back on exploring them. The following are the most common myths about hair extensions. 1. Hair Extensions are Very Expensive Many people believe those hair extensions, especially those that are made of 100% human hair, would be too expensive to be afforded by the average person. Let us assure you that this may have been true several years ago when only celebrities could afford human hair extensions. Nowadays, you don't have to rob a bank to get a reasonably priced hair extension of excellent quality. Human hair extensions may be a bit pricier than their synthetic counterparts, but they make up for it through their duration and quality. What's more, they perfectly blend with natural hair, and if taken good care of, last a long time. 2. Hair Extensions Damage Natural Hair This is probably one of the main reasons why most women steer clear of installing hair extensions. However, professionally installed extensions don't affect your hair at all. The installation method and type of hair you go for also matters. If natural extensions are installed professionally, not only will they last longer, but they will also be comfortable and will allow your hair to grow. 3. Hair Extensions are Hard to Maintain Hair extensions save you from the stress of having to rush to your stylist every morning. If correctly installed, your hair extensions should not require professional care regularly. They are easy to take care of. For starters, patience is vital. Once you are well knowledgeable on how to apply and take care of them after installation, maintenance is a walk in the park! 4. Questionable Source of Human Hair Extensions For the longest time in history, people around the world have been donating their hair. Quality human hair extensions sold in reputable shops, Superior Hair included, are sourced from healthy regular people. What makes our extensions last is the fact that they aren't swept from the floors of temples and salons. Instead, they are sourced from donors with long, thick ponytails. 5. Hair Extensions Limit Your Workout Exercise Installing hair extensions does not mean you can't lead a healthy fit life. Taking precautions such as the use of correct products and tools should have you rocking your favourite style, even to the gym! If you are looking for a carefree option, then clip-ins will be your go-to. Not only are they unbelievably easy to install, but they also come in handy when you wish to sweat it out in the gym and not have to worry about how your hair looks. Long, healthy hair goals shouldn't be a farfetched dream anymore. Be sure to purchase your hair extensions from a trusted seller, and you can be assured of their quality. At Superior Hair, we strive to make your hair dreams a reality!

Learn more
What is Balayage?: Everything You Need to Know

What is Balayage?: Everything You Need to Know

  Balayage, ombré, highlights, sombre. The hair world loves a French word. They also love using them all interchangeably, even when they mean completely different things.  So, what is balayage? You know how, when you were younger, your hair would go lighter from being in the sun; well, balayage gives off that exact sun-kissed, natural sandy blonde looking hair colour! We cover the meaning of balayage hair, how it differs from ombré and highlights, and how to find the right shade match for your hair so you can pull off the summer look even in the dead of winter. At a Glance: Balayage is a French hair colouring technique meaning "to sweep", where colour is hand-painted onto the hair for a soft, sun-kissed finish It's not the same as ombré (which is a look, not a technique) and grows out far more naturally than traditional foil highlights Balayage extensions come pre-coloured with that same dimensional finish already built in  They're available across every extension method: clip-ins, tape-ins, wefts, nano rings, and keratin bonds Not sure which shade suits you? Superior Hair offers 45+ shades, colour matching, and in-person consultations at our Auckland salon What is the Difference Between Balayage, Ombré, and Highlights?  Balayage Balayage is a technique. Meaning “to sweep”, this French freehand colouring technique was developed in the 1970s, where colour is applied by hand rather than using the traditional foiling or cap highlighting techniques. This results in soft, multi-tonal highlights that blend naturally into your base colour. Because the colour sits away from the roots and fades gradually down the hair as it grows out, it's become a staple for anyone who wants great colour without living at the salon. Ombré ombré is a look. Coming from the French word for “shadow”, it is the process in which the hair is dyed in a gradation from dark to light. ombré results in a lighter colour transition going from the mid-shaft of your hair to the ends and with darker hair from your roots to the mid-shaft. Unlike balayage, the hair moves from one colour to another in the most even transition possible. It's bolder and more defined than balayage, and the colour shift is intentional rather than organic. This creates the final result of being a seamless blend of the highlights and your natural hair colour. Highlights Highlights are something else entirely. When you're weighing up balayage vs highlights, the application is where they differ: a stylist sections the hair, wraps those sections in foil, and saturates the full strand with colour from root to tip. The result is brighter and more uniform than either balayage or ombré, but it also shows regrowth faster and needs more regular touch-ups to stay sharp. Balayage Ombré Highlights Technique Hand-painted freehand Graduated colour blend Foil sections, root to tip Finish Soft, dimensional, natural Bold, smooth gradient Uniform, defined, bright Dark pieces at the ends? Yes, adds depth No, lighter throughout Depends on placement Regrowth visibility Low, grows out naturally Low, roots stay dark High, visible line every 6–8 weeks Maintenance Touch-up every 4–6 months Touch-up every 4–6 months Touch-up every 8–10 weeks Best for Natural, lived-in colour Bold colour transformation All-over brightness Available as extensions? Yes Yes Yes Balayage Hair Extensions: The Easiest Way to Try the Look Getting balayage colour applied at a salon takes time, money, and chemical processing on your own hair. With balayage hair extensions, the colour is pre-done and stays consistent the entire time you’re wearing them, giving you the full dimensional finish from the moment you put them in. Clip-Ins These are the natural starting point if you’ve never worn extensions before. Simply put them in and take them out without the need for adhesives. Whether you go for balayage or ombré clip-in extensions, both come pre-coloured and ready to wear straight out of the box. With proper care, a good set lasts one to two years. Tape-Ins These sit flat against the scalp and are virtually undetectable, making them a popular choice for those with fine or thin hair. A stylist applies them in rows using a medical-grade adhesive, usually taking under an hour, and they're moved up every six to eight weeks as your hair grows. Wefts These wefts of hair are sewn or bonded onto a row of small beads by a stylist. They're brilliant for adding serious volume and work especially well for thicker hair types.  Nano Rings and Tips As the most discreet semi-permanent options, individual strands are attached one by one using either a tiny metal ring (nano rings) or a keratin bond (nano tips), which means the extensions move and blend exactly like your own hair.  Nano rings and tips are the longest-wearing method and the most versatile for styling, but they do take longer to apply. Not sure which method is right for you? That's exactly what our Auckland consultations are for, or you can browse the full balayage hair extension range online and filter by method.   Reasons to get Balayage Coloured Extensions: You Get the Colour Without the Commitment Getting balayage done at a salon means toner, processing time, and a bill to match. Balayage extensions give you the same result without any of that touching your own hair. It doesn't fade or change the way chemically treated hair does. Just remember to get your extensions maintained every 6-8 weeks for the best results! They're Made for Summer  There's a reason balayage has always been the go-to look heading into the warmer months. If you're heading into spring and want your hair to reflect it, balayage will add a natural glow and lighter tone to your hair, giving off the idea that you’ve been soaking up that hot summer sun for weeks!  It Adds Serious Dimension to Curls and Waves If you are looking for a hair technique that amplifies the long, loose curl or glamorous beach look, then balayage hair colour will certainly glam up your style. With your favourite look and balayage combined, you’ll be able to see the colour variations spiralling smoothly through to the ends of your hair.  They Work With Your Natural Hair, Not Against It Balayage extensions don't need your hair to be a specific colour to blend well. Because the darker root of the extension mirrors your natural base and the lighter ends fade away from it, they integrate cleanly whether your hair is dark brown, light brown, or somewhere in between.    How to Match Balayage Extensions to Your Hair There are a few things worth knowing about before you order. Get these right and your extensions will blend like they grew out of your head. Get them wrong and you’ll definitely be able to tell. Match to Your Mid-Lengths and Ends Balayage hair colour sits away from the roots, which is why you should hold the extension against your mid-lengths and ends, not your scalp. Match to your roots and the extensions will sit too dark through the ends, causing the blend to fall apart. Consider Your Undertone A warm brunette in cool ash extensions is going to look off no matter how close the depth is. Two shades can look almost identical on a swatch and completely different once they're in your hair.  Warm hair leans golden, caramel, or honey, while cool hair leans ash, beige, or silvery. Check yours in natural light to determine your undertone.  Create a Noticeable Contrast Balayage only looks like balayage when the lighter ends are actually lighter. Aim for at least two to three shades of difference between the darker root and the lighter ends of the extension. Too close together and you lose the whole dimensional effect. Go for the Lighter of Two Shades Lighter blends more forgivingly than darker. An extension that's slightly lighter than expected will still blend, while a darker one tends to sit heavy and obvious through the ends.   Frequently Asked Questions Do balayage hair extensions work on dark hair? Yes, as long as you choose the right shade. A chocolate brown balayage extension, for example, pairs a deep brown base with lighter caramel or honey ends. The darkest tone in the extension should be close to your natural base colour, with the lighter ends sitting two to three shades above it. The contrast is what creates the balayage effect. Can I heat style balayage extensions? Yes. Our extensions are 100% human hair, so they can be curled, straightened, and blow-dried just like your own hair. Always use a heat protectant first, and keep the temperature reasonable to protect the colour. I’m a stylist. Can I stock balayage extensions through Superior Hair? Absolutely. Superior Hair supplies salons and independent stylists with trade accounts, wholesale pricing, and the option to white-label products under your own brand. With products stocked across thousands of salons worldwide and a factory-direct supply chain, get in touch with us to discuss what works for your business. Ready to Try Balayage Hair Extensions? Now you know the difference between balayage, ombré, and highlights. And more importantly, you know exactly what to look for when it comes to finding the right extensions for your hair. The rest is pretty straightforward. Superior Hair's balayage extension range comes in 45+ shades, uses 100% human hair, and ships fast across New Zealand and beyond. Whether you're after a clip-in set to try the look for summer, a semi-permanent method for something longer lasting, or a ponytail extension for a touch of flair, it's all there. Not sure where to start with shade matching? Book a consultation to come in and see us. Our Auckland salon on Symonds Street does colour consultations in person. We'll match you up properly and make sure you leave with exactly the right shade, length, and method for your hair.

Learn more