How To Care For Your Hair Extensions: Tips And Tricks
Hair extensions are a great way to add length, volume, and style to your natural hair. They come in various styles and colors, making it easy to achieve the look you desire. However, just like your natural hair, hair extensions require proper care and maintenance to keep them looking their best.
With the right tips and tricks, you can ensure that your hair extensions last longer and continue to look flawless. In this guide, we will discuss how to properly care for your hair extensions so that you can enjoy beautiful locks without any damage or hassle.
Understanding Hair Extensions
Hair extensions are artificial hair strands that are attached to your natural hair to add length and volume. They can be made from synthetic or human hair, with the latter being more popular for its natural look and feel. There are various types of hair extensions available, including clip-ins, tape-ins, sew-ins, and fusion extensions.
Before getting any type of hair extension, it is essential to understand the method of attachment and how it will affect your natural hair. For example, clip-in extensions can be easily removed at home, while sew-in or fusion extensions require professional installation and removal. Additionally, different types of extension methods may have different care instructions.
It's also crucial to consider the quality of the hair extensions. Human hair extensions tend to be more expensive but offer a higher quality and longevity compared to synthetic ones. Regardless of the type or method of attachment, all hair extensions require proper care to maintain their appearance and prevent any damage to your natural hair.
Tips And Tricks For Hair Extension Care
Now you understand what hair extensions are and the importance of choosing high-quality ones, let's dive into some tips and tricks for caring for your hair extensions.
Brush Gently and Regularly
Brushing your hair extensions is crucial for maintaining their appearance and preventing tangles. Use a wide-toothed comb or a soft-bristle brush specifically designed for extensions to ensure you don’t cause any damage.
Start from the ends of the hair and work your way up to the roots, gently detangling as you go. This technique helps to minimize breakage and preserves the integrity of the extensions. It's best to brush your extensions when they are dry; wet hair is more susceptible to damage.
Make it a habit to brush your extensions at least once a day, or before styling. Regular brushing not only keeps them looking smooth and sleek but also distributes natural oils, which helps in maintaining their luster and softness.
Wash with Care
Washing your hair extensions is essential to keep them clean and free from product buildup. However, it's crucial to do it with care to prevent any damage or loosening of the attachments.
Start by detangling your hair gently with a wide-toothed comb before washing. Avoid using hot water as it can loosen the bonds or make clip-ins lose their shape. Only use sulfate-free and alcohol-free shampoos and conditioners specifically designed for hair extensions.
When washing, focus on the roots, where dirt and oil tend to accumulate. Be gentle when massaging shampoo into the roots to avoid tangling. Rinse thoroughly, making sure no product remains on the extensions. Avoid rubbing or twisting the hair, and instead, gently squeeze out excess water.
Moisturize Frequently
Hair extensions, especially human hair ones, require moisture to keep them looking soft and shiny. If you notice that your extensions are starting to feel dry or brittle, it's time to give them some extra TLC.
Invest in a good leave-in conditioner or hair oil specifically designed for extensions. These products can help revive and protect the hair from damage caused by styling tools, weather conditions, or product buildup. Apply the moisturizing product evenly throughout the hair, focusing on the ends.
Avoid applying any products directly onto the bonds of fusion or sew-in extensions, as this can cause them to loosen over time. For clip-in extensions, make sure to apply products away from the clips to prevent them from slipping out.
Avoid Heat Styling
Just like your natural hair, heat styling can cause damage and dryness to your extensions. It's best to avoid using hot tools such as flat irons, curling wands, or blow dryers on a high heat setting. If you must use heat, make sure to apply a heat protectant product beforehand and use the lowest possible temperature.
Additionally, be mindful of the type of extensions you have and how they may react to heat. For example, synthetic extensions are not heat-resistant and can melt or become damaged when exposed to high temperatures.
Sleep with Care
How you sleep can also affect the appearance and longevity of your hair extensions. When sleeping, make sure to tie your hair up in a loose ponytail or braid to prevent any tangles. You can also wrap your hair in a silk scarf or use a silk pillowcase to reduce friction and keep the extensions looking smooth.
Avoid going to bed with wet hair as this can cause tangling and potentially loosen attachments. If necessary, blow dry your extensions on a low heat setting before going to sleep.
Protect from Chlorine and Saltwater
If you plan on swimming while wearing hair extensions, it's essential to take some precautions to protect them. Chlorine and saltwater can dry out the hair and cause tangles or discoloration.
Before swimming, wet your extensions with clean water to prevent them from absorbing too much chlorine or saltwater. You can also apply a leave-in conditioner or hair oil for extra protection. After swimming, make sure to wash your hair thoroughly with clean water and a sulfate-free shampoo to remove any harsh chemicals.
Store Properly When Not in Use
When not wearing your hair extensions, it's crucial to store them properly to prevent any tangling or damage. For clip-in extensions, make sure to remove them and gently brush out any tangles before storing in a dry place.
For fusion or sew-in extensions, place them in a satin-lined bag and avoid folding or bunching up the hair. If possible, hang them on a coat hanger or lay them flat in a drawer to maintain their shape.
Proper storage also applies when traveling with your extensions. Invest in a travel-friendly case specifically designed for hair extensions to keep them safe and secure during transit.
So these are some tips on how to care for your hair extensions with care. Remember, the better you take care of them, the longer they will last and look beautiful. With proper maintenance, you can enjoy your extensions and keep them looking flawless for a long time. Keep these tips in mind and show your hair extensions some love!
Does Aloe Vera Help Hair Growth?
Aloe vera is a popular ingredient in many hair care products, claiming to promote hair growth and prevent hair loss. But does it really work?
There isn't enough scientific evidence to support the claim that aloe vera can directly stimulate hair growth. However, it does have several properties that can benefit the overall health of your scalp and hair.
Firstly, aloe vera has anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe an irritated scalp and reduce dandruff. This creates a healthier environment for hair growth to occur.
Additionally, aloe vera contains vitamins A, C, and E - all essential for healthy hair growth. These vitamins help nourish and strengthen the hair, potentially reducing breakage and promoting growth.
Using aloe vera as a pre-shampoo treatment or incorporating it into your shampoo and conditioner routine can also add moisture to dry hair. This can prevent brittleness and damage that may hinder hair growth.
Can I Color or Bleach Hair Extensions?
Yes, you can color or bleach hair extensions, but it's essential to do so with caution. It's always best to consult with a professional stylist who is experienced in working with hair extensions to ensure that the process is done correctly and safely.
When coloring or bleaching extensions, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, remember that most hair extensions have already been chemically processed before being sold, so they may not react the same way as your natural hair.
It's also important to use products specifically designed for colored or bleached hair. Sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners are highly recommended as they are gentler and won't strip the color or damage the extensions.
If you're planning to bleach your extensions, it's crucial to be careful and not leave the product on for too long. Bleaching can weaken the hair if done incorrectly, so it's best to do a strand test first before applying it to all of your extensions.
Mistakes That Can Ruin Hair Extensions
While hair extensions can be a great way to add length and volume to your natural hair, they also require proper maintenance. Here are some common mistakes that can ruin your extensions:
Neglecting proper care: Just like your natural hair, extensions need regular washing, conditioning, and detangling. Neglecting these steps can lead to tangling, matting, and shortened lifespan of the extensions.
Using harsh products: Sulfates, alcohol, and other harsh chemicals can strip the extensions of their natural oils and cause damage. Opt for gentle, sulfate-free products specifically designed for hair extensions.
Heat styling without protection: As mentioned earlier, heat can damage hair extensions just like it can damage your natural hair. Always use a heat protectant product before using hot tools and try to limit heat styling as much as possible.
Not brushing gently: Extensions are more prone to tangling than natural hair, so it's important to brush them gently with a wide-toothed comb or a special extension brush. Avoid tugging or pulling on the extensions to prevent breakage.
Sleeping with wet hair: Going to bed with wet extensions can cause tangling and weaken the attachment points. Make sure to dry your extensions thoroughly before going to sleep.
By avoiding these mistakes and following proper care tips, you can ensure that your hair extensions stay looking beautiful for as long as possible. So be mindful of how you treat your extensions and give them the love they deserve!
FAQs
How should I care for my hair extensions to prevent tangling?
To prevent tangling, it's important to regularly brush your hair extensions and own hair using a gentle, wide-tooth comb. Additionally, avoid rubbing your hair when it’s wet, and consider using a cool blow dryer to gently dry hair extensions without causing damage to the hair shaft.
Can I use a blow dryer on my hair extensions?
Yes, you can use a blow dryer on your hair extensions, but it's recommended to use a cool blow dryer setting to avoid damaging both the extension hair and your own hair. This helps to maintain the quality and longevity of the extensions.
What should I include in my hair care routine for longer hair extensions?
Your hair care routine for longer hair extensions should include regular gentle washing, conditioning, and avoiding excessive heat. Make sure to dry hair extensions thoroughly with a blow dryer on a cool setting to maintain the extension hair and prevent damage to the hair shaft.
How can hair extension clients keep their extensions looking like real hair?
Hair extension clients can keep their extensions looking like real hair by taking proper care of your hair and extensions. This includes using a hair care routine tailored to the specific hair extension type, preventing tangling by brushing regularly, and avoiding sleeping with hair wet.
Conclusion
Hair extensions can be a fun and versatile way to change up your look, but they also require some extra care and attention. By following the tips in this guide, you can ensure that your hair extensions stay looking beautiful and last for as long as possible.
Remember to handle them gently, use quality products, and always consult with a professional stylist if you have any concerns or questions. With proper maintenance, you can rock your hair extensions confidently and enjoy the endless possibilities they offer! So go ahead and show off those luscious locks!
Filomena Salon Coquitlam is an award-winning hair salon located on Schoolhouse Street in Coquitlam. We are specialists in hair extensions, hair colour and other professional hair services.
If you are considering a new colour or style for your hair, contact us. We’ll walk you through all the options to ensure your choice of colour reflects your personality and complexion.
Call today for a free consultation with one of our stylists. We have the best hairdressers and the best hair colourists in Vancouver.
Call now at 604-777-9300 or email us at info@filomenasalonspa.com.