How To Look After Hair Extensions

 

Hair extensions are a really easy way to add length and volume to your natural hair. Whether you’ve got naturally long or short hair, the before and after result from using extensions will be remarkable. There are many different options available that blend seamlessly with your real hair such as micro rings, nano bonds, tape in, and weft, just to name a few.

It’s important to make sure you properly look after your hair extensions, there are some simple ways you can ensure that they stay looking their best. Here are some of our top tips:

Brushing

To keep your extensions smooth it’s important to brush them at least twice day – the same as you would with your natural hair – to prevent them from getting tangled, knotted, or matted. Never brush too hard over your roots because this is where the extensions are secured and you could potentially damage them or pull them out.

One of the most important steps in your aftercare routine is to separate the extension bonds daily. Preferably in the morning separate each bond from the roots with your fingers to make sure they are sitting separately and to stop them from matting. This step ensures that the hair extensions can be quickly and easily removed after the recommended months of wear.

If you’ve opted for micro ring extensions, simply separate each extension with your fingers to detangle. It’s also important to be very gentle when applying clip in extensions as the clips get attached to your real hair so its best to be careful to prevent them getting stuck or pulling which could damage your natural hair.

We recommend only using an extension brush designed specifically for brushing hair extensions.

Washing

We suggest not to wash your extensions as often as your own hair as washing too often can dry them out over time. When shampooing try to use a gentle sulphate-free shampoo to keep the bonds intact. Try to tilt your head back and gently massage the shampoo lather down your hair from roots to ends.

Thoroughly rinse out the shampoo before conditioning. Never condition the roots as this might cause the extensions to unravel and break down over time, instead condition the mid-lengths and ends. If wearing clip ins, be sure to take them out when sleeping or showering.

We recommend using a deep hydrating hair mask after shampooing to keep them looking smooth and shiny.

Sleeping

To make brushing your hair easier the next morning we suggest securing your extensions before you go to sleep. This not only make brushing your hair easier but styling it too.

At night when sleeping, a good tip is to plait your hair or put it in a loose ponytail before bed, as this prevents tangling, this is especially recommended if you’ve chosen a weft or single bonded hair extension. It’s important to never go to sleep with your extensions still wet.

We suggest applying a light hair oil to your ends before going to sleep to lock in moisture and prevent them from drying out. You could also try sleeping on a silk or satin pillowcase as this has been known to prevent dryness.

Swimming

If you’re on holiday and you want to go swimming in the pool or in the sea you’ll need to protect your locks. Sea minerals can sometimes cause discolouration so it’s best to limit the exposure to these elements as much as you can.

To prevent your extensions absorbing chlorine or salt which can frazzle them and make them feel brittle, be sure to saturate your hair with clean water then apply a coconut oil or Argan oil. Once you’ve been swimming it’s important to wash your hair straight away and not let it dry naturally as this can cause knots and matting.

Styling

Your real hair gets natural oils from the scalp that help keep it soft and healthy. Extensions don’t have this benefit, therefore, you will need to supply this moisture through an oil based product to keep them looking healthy and fresh.

Using heated tools such as straighteners or curling wands can majorly damage and dry out extensions. Try to skip using heat on your hair or if you do make sure to use a low heat or less frequently.

We recommend plaiting your hair before bed as this not only prevents tangling but also gives you natural looking, heatless waves that look gorgeous and last all day!

Storing

If using clip in extensions it’s important to store them correctly to improve the quality and lifespan of your extensions. Ensure that the clips are closed and completely dry to prevent bacteria from growing.

Make sure to brush them before storing to prevent tangling. Store them in a cool and dry place away from direct sunlight if possible. We suggest using a storage box, or air tight container to keep your extensions safe and completely dry.

If you’re wanting to switch up your style with added length and volume then hair extensions could be the perfect solution. Without proper care, your extensions can become matted and dull. But with a good routine, you can enjoy wearing your hair extensions for many months, with silkier, fuller, thicker, and healthy looking locks!