Professional Tips and Tricks for Hair Extensions
How to Care for Your Hair Extensions
Hair extensions are a fantastic way to enhance your hairstyle by adding length, volume, and even color. However, to ensure they look great and last long, proper care is essential. Below are professional tips and tricks to help you maintain the longevity and quality of your hair extensions.
Brushing Regularly:
Proper brushing is crucial to prevent tangles and keep your extensions looking their best. Use a soft bristle brush or a wide-tooth comb designed specifically for extensions. Start at the ends of your hair and gently work your way up toward the roots. This method minimizes tension on the wefts and prevents pulling, which can lead to breakage or loosening of the extensions. It’s especially important to brush your hair before and after washing, as this helps to maintain smoothness and prevent knots. Additionally, brushing your extensions before going to bed can prevent tangling while you sleep, keeping your extensions looking fresh.
Washing with Care:
Washing your extensions properly is key to maintaining their texture and sheen. Unlike natural hair, extensions don’t receive natural oils from your scalp, so they don’t need to be washed as frequently. Typically, washing them every 20-30 wears or when product build-up becomes noticeable is sufficient. Use lukewarm water to avoid stripping the hair of its natural moisture, and opt for a sulfate-free, gentle shampoo to prevent drying out the extensions. When applying shampoo, be gentle—smooth it down the length of the hair from the weft/base to the ends, rather than rubbing it in. This technique helps prevent tangling and ensures that the extensions remain smooth and manageable.
Conditioning Thoroughly:
Conditioning is vital for keeping your extensions soft, hydrated, and free of frizz. After shampooing, apply a rich, moisturizing conditioner, focusing on the mid-lengths and ends of the hair where it’s needed most. Allow the conditioner to sit for a few minutes to deeply penetrate the hair fibers, providing necessary hydration and protection. Rinse thoroughly with cold water to seal the cuticle, which locks in moisture and adds shine. If your extensions are prone to dryness, consider using a leave-in conditioner or a hydrating mask once a week to provide extra nourishment.
Drying with Caution:
Drying your extensions carefully is important to avoid damage. After washing, gently squeeze out excess water and pat the hair dry with a towel. Avoid rubbing the hair, as this can cause friction and lead to tangling. The best way to dry extensions is to let them air dry naturally, which preserves their texture and prevents heat damage. However, if you need to use a hairdryer, set it to the lowest heat setting and keep it at least 6 inches away from the hair to minimize the risk of overheating. A diffuser attachment can help evenly distribute the heat, reducing the chances of damage.
Applying Heat Protectant:
Heat styling tools like straighteners and curling irons can cause significant damage to your extensions if used without proper protection. Always apply a heat protectant spray before using any heat tools. This creates a barrier between the hair and the heat, reducing the risk of split ends and dryness. When styling, keep the temperature as low as possible—ideally under 180°C (350°F)—to prevent overheating the hair. Remember, even with heat protectant, frequent use of heat styling tools can shorten the lifespan of your extensions, so try to limit the use of these tools when possible.
Styling Appropriately:
When styling your extensions, it’s important to use the right products. Avoid heavy styling products like gels and hairsprays, as they can cause build-up and make the hair difficult to manage. Instead, opt for lighter products, such as serums or sprays specifically designed for extensions, which add shine and smoothness without weighing the hair down. If you need extra hold, choose a light, flexible hairspray that won’t leave residue. Additionally, when curling or straightening your extensions, always follow the natural direction of the hair to avoid causing unnecessary strain or damage.
Sleeping Smart:
How you care for your extensions while you sleep is just as important as how you treat them during the day. Never go to bed with wet hair extensions, as this can lead to matting and tangling. Before bed, loosely braid your hair or tie it in a soft ponytail to keep it contained and reduce friction. Consider using a silk or satin pillowcase, which is gentler on the hair and helps reduce frizz and breakage. These materials create less friction compared to cotton, allowing your hair to glide smoothly while you sleep, keeping your extensions looking smooth and shiny.
Avoiding Chemical Treatments:
Chemical treatments like coloring, perming, or relaxing can weaken the hair extensions, leading to dryness, breakage, or even shedding. Extensions do not have the same resilience as natural hair, so it’s best to avoid subjecting them to harsh chemicals. If you want to change the color or texture of your extensions, consult a professional stylist who has experience working with extensions. They can recommend safer alternatives or perform the treatment in a way that minimizes damage. Always remember that preserving the integrity of the extensions will ensure they look beautiful and last longer.
Storing Properly:
Proper storage is essential for maintaining the quality of your clip-in hair extensions when they’re not in use. Always store them in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight or humidity, which can cause the hair to dry out or become brittle. Hanging the extensions or laying them flat in a storage box or silk/satin bag is ideal for preserving their shape and preventing tangling. If you’re traveling, consider using a protective travel case designed for extensions to keep them secure and in good condition. Regularly checking on your stored extensions ensures they remain in top shape for your next use.
