If you’ve invested in hair extensions, then you know how they can transform your look in an instant. But, like your natural hair, extensions need care and attention to maintain their quality and ensure their longevity. In this article, we’ll share some tips on how to take care of your hair extensions and keep them looking fabulous.
Table of Contents
Brush Your Hair Extensions Regularly
Brushing your hair extensions is an essential step in maintaining their quality. Use a soft-bristled brush or a wide-tooth comb to gently detangle your extensions, starting from the bottom and working your way up. Be sure to brush your extensions every day to avoid tangles and matting.
Wash Your Hair Extensions with Care
When it comes to washing your hair extensions, you want to be gentle. Use a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner that is specifically formulated for hair extensions. Avoid using hot water as it can damage the hair fibers and cause tangling. Instead, wash your extensions in lukewarm water and use a gentle, circular motion to clean them.
Deep Condition Your Hair Extensions
Deep conditioning your hair extensions once a week can help to restore their moisture and keep them looking healthy. Apply a deep conditioner to your extensions and let it sit for at least 15 minutes. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water to avoid any residue build-up.
Avoid Heat Styling Your Hair Extensions
Heat styling tools like straighteners and curling irons can damage your hair extensions and cause them to become dry and brittle. If you must use heat styling tools, be sure to use a heat protectant spray and avoid using high temperatures. Opt for low to medium heat settings and limit your use of heat styling tools to once or twice a week.
Store Your Hair Extensions Properly
Storing your hair extensions properly can help to maintain their quality and prevent tangling. After washing and drying your extensions, store them in a dry, cool place, preferably in a box or a bag that is specifically designed for hair extensions. This will prevent dust and dirt from accumulating on your extensions and keep them looking fresh.
Don’t Sleep with Wet Hair Extensions
Sleeping with wet hair extensions can cause tangling and matting, so it’s best to avoid it altogether. Before going to bed, make sure your extensions are completely dry. You can use a hair dryer on a low setting to speed up the drying process. Once dry, tie your hair extensions in a loose braid or ponytail to prevent tangling while you sleep.
Be Gentle with Your Hair Extensions
It’s essential to be gentle with your hair extensions to avoid damaging them. Avoid pulling or tugging at your wings; don’t use excessive force when brushing or styling them. When washing your extensions, use a gentle, circular motion to avoid tangling and matting.
Avoid Chlorine and Saltwater
Chlorine and saltwater can be damaging to hair extensions, causing them to become dry and brittle. If you plan to swim, protect your extensions by wearing a swim cap or braiding your hair. After swimming, rinse your hair thoroughly with fresh water to remove any chlorine or saltwater residue.
Use Leave-in Conditioner
Using a leave-in conditioner can help to keep your hair extensions hydrated and prevent tangling. Apply a small amount of leave-in conditioner to the mid-lengths and ends of your extensions, avoiding the roots. Use a wide-tooth comb to distribute the conditioner evenly throughout your hair.
Avoid Using Oily Products
Oily hair products, such as serums and hair sprays, can weigh down your hair extensions and cause them to become greasy. Avoid using these products on your extensions, and opt for lightweight products instead. If you do use oily products, make sure to wash your extensions regularly to avoid build-up.
Trim Your Extensions
Just like your natural hair, hair extensions can become damaged and split over time. To prevent this, trim your extensions every six to eight weeks to remove any split ends. This will help to keep your extensions looking healthy and prevent further damage.
Choose High-Quality Extensions
Investing in high-quality hair extensions can make a big difference in their lifespan and overall appearance. Look for extensions made from 100% human hair, as these will blend seamlessly with your natural hair and be more durable. Cheap synthetic extensions may look good at first, but they won’t last as long or be as versatile as human hair extensions.
Don’t Wear Your Extensions for Too Long
Wearing your hair extensions for too long can cause them to become tangled and damaged. As a general rule, it’s best to wear your extensions for no longer than six to eight weeks at a time. After this, remove them and give your natural hair a break before reapplying them.
Protect Your Extensions When Sleeping
When you sleep, your hair extensions can become tangled and damaged. To prevent this, wrap your hair in a silk scarf or use a silk pillowcase. Silk is gentle on hair and helps to prevent tangling and breakage.
Read also: Best Hair Extensions to Get a Catchy Look
Summary
By following these additional tips, you can keep your hair extensions looking their best for longer. Remember to avoid chlorine and saltwater, use a leave-in conditioner, avoid oily products, trim your extensions, choose high-quality extensions, don’t wear your extensions for too long, and protect your extensions when sleeping.
In conclusion, taking care of your hair extensions requires a little extra effort, but the results are worth it. By following the tips outlined in this article, you can keep your hair extensions looking fabulous for months to come. Remember to be gentle with your extensions, avoid heat-styling tools, and store them properly to ensure their longevity. With a bit of care and attention, your hair extensions can transform your look and boost your confidence.