You just got your gorgeous new hair extensions, and your hair looks absolutely stunning! Or you’re considering getting extensions and want to know how to care for them before you take the plunge. Either way, you’re in the right place!
Now that you’ve invested in high-quality extensions, keeping them looking fabulous for as long as possible is essential. That’s where this care guide comes in. With years of experience working with hair extensions, I’ve gathered all the tips and tricks to help you maintain your extensions and keep them in perfect condition.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know — the dos and don’ts that will help your extensions last longer and keep your natural hair healthy.
1. Protect Extensions While Sleeping
Your nighttime routine dramatically affects how long your extensions will last. It’s best to sleep on a silk or satin pillowcase to prevent tangling and breakage. Cotton pillowcases can cause friction, leading to frizz and tangling. Braid your hair loosely or tie it into a low bun before bed to further protect your extensions. These small habits can significantly extend the lifespan of your extensions.
2. Brush Your Extensions Daily
One of the simplest but most effective things you can do is brush your extensions regularly. Use a soft-bristle brush or a wide-tooth comb to prevent tangling and matting:
- Start brushing from the ends and work your way up to the roots.
- Hold the base of the weft or bonds to avoid tugging and damaging the attachments.
Daily brushing keeps your extensions smooth and distributes oils from your scalp, helping nourish the hair.
3. Install Hair Extensions Correctly
No matter how well you care for your extensions, they will only last if installed correctly. Always have your extensions installed by a professional who understands your specific method, whether it’s tape-ins, wefts, or fusion bonds. Poor installation can lead to excessive shedding, tangling, and even damage to your natural hair.
4. Limit Heat Styling
Using too much heat can severely damage your extensions. While you can curl or straighten them, it’s important to minimize the use of hot tools. When you do use heat, apply a heat protectant spray to shield your extensions from damage and keep the heat setting as low as possible
5. Wash Extensions Properly
Washing your extensions the right way is critical to keeping them clean and fresh without causing damage. Here are some quick tips:
- Wash 1-2 times per week using sulfate-free shampoo to prevent drying out the hair
- Focus on the scalp, allowing the shampoo to run through the extensions without scrubbing them aggressively
- Rinse thoroughly, avoiding hot water, which can weaken the bonds or adhesives
6. Deep Condition Weekly
To keep your extensions soft and hydrated, apply a deep conditioning treatment at least once a week. However, avoid applying conditioner near the bonds or roots to prevent them from loosening. Focus on the mid-lengths and ends to keep the extensions nourished and looking smooth.
7. Separate the Bonds Daily
This tip is specifically for wearers of bonded extensions like fusion or micro-links. Extensions that are bonded to your hair can start to tangle at the roots, so it’s essential to separate the bonds every day. Gently run your fingers through your hair, especially near the roots, to keep the bonds tangle-free
8. Store Temporary Extensions Properly
If you wear clip-in extensions or other temporary types, how you store them is just as important as how you wear them. Between uses, store your extensions in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. Use a storage box or hang them on a hair extension hanger to keep them tangle-free and in good condition.
9. Avoid Sleeping with Wet Hair
One of the biggest mistakes you can make is going to bed with wet extensions. Wet hair is more prone to tangling and matting, which can be difficult to fix in the morning. Always ensure your extensions are completely dry before going to bed. If you must use a blow dryer, use a low heat setting.
10. Monitor for Wear and Tear
Even with proper care, extensions can show signs of wear over time. Keep an eye on the bonds or tapes to ensure they aren’t loosening. If your extensions start looking dull, frizzy, or dry, it might be time for a touch-up or replacement. Regularly monitoring your extensions can help you catch these issues before they cause bigger problems.
11. Replace Extensions Regularly
No matter how well you care for your extensions, they won’t last forever. Depending on the type and quality of hair, extensions can last anywhere from 6 months to a year with proper care. Over time, they may start to lose their shine, tangle more easily, or show signs of wear. When this happens, it’s best to replace them to keep your look fresh and natural.
Final Thoughts
Taking care of hair extensions doesn’t have to be complicated, but it does require consistency. From brushing daily to proper storage and limiting heat, following these tips will help you enjoy your extensions for months. A little care goes a long way in ensuring your extensions remain soft, shiny, and tangle-free, keeping you looking your best!
