To look after hair extensions, wash them no more than three times a week with a moisturising shampoo, keep conditioner and oil away from the bonds, brush gently from the ends upwards with a soft-bristle brush, sleep with your hair in a loose plait on a silk pillowcase, and book a maintenance appointment every 6-8 weeks. Each extension type has its own quirks, so here's how to care for yours.
Whether you're looking to add volume, length, or a pop of colour to your natural hair, hair extensions can be a game-changer. However, to ensure they stay as stunning as the day you got them, proper care is essential. Follow this guide about the do’s and don'ts of caring for your extensions.
How to Look After Tape-In Hair Extensions
Tape-in extensions are a popular choice for their seamless blend and easy application. To care for tape-ins, avoid applying heavy conditioners or oils near the tape attachment points, as this can cause them to slip. Avoid using heat on the root area, and always blowdry the roots on a cool setting as this type of extension is attached by using a strip of double sided tape and this could cause the adhesive to deteriorate. Make sure to use a moisturising shampoo to maintain your hair extensions. Brush your hair gently with a soft bristled brush, start by detangling the ends by brushing downwards and gradually moving upwards, minimising stress on the tape bonds; and avoiding causing any pulling on your natural hair between the tapes. We recommend visiting the salon every 6 to 8 weeks for tape maintenance.
How to Look After Nano-Ring Extensions
Nano-ring extensions, although time consuming, offer a discreet and natural look, but proper care is essential to prevent damage. When washing your hair, be gentle around the nano-rings, (avoid scrubbing) using a moisturising shampoo and conditioner. Towel dry/pat dry gently. It’s crucial to avoid applying excessive tension when brushing, as this can cause the tiny rings to loosen. Brush your hair with a soft bristled brush to ensure you’re not tugging on the bonds. Make sure you’re thoroughly detangling the root to avoid matting as these tiny stands of hair can get tangled together. Especially when you’re overdue a salon visit. Regularly check the nano-rings for any signs of slippage, and consult your stylist promptly if adjustments are needed. We recommend visiting the salon every 6 - 8 weeks to push your nano ring bonds up.
How to Care for Weft (Weave or Sew-In) Extensions
Weft extensions, also called weaves or sew-ins, provide versatility and protection for your natural hair. To care for weave extensions, cleanse your scalp regularly to prevent product buildup and maintain a healthy environment for your hair. When detangling, start from the tips and work your way up, being mindful of the beaded base. While brushing your hair, make sure to section and brush under each row to make sure its detangled. Weaves should be tightened or repositioned every 6-8 weeks to prevent excessive tension on the natural hair.
Hair Extension Care Tips for Every Type
Avoid Excessive Heat
While many extensions can withstand moderate heat styling, it's wise to limit the use of hot tools to prevent damage. If heat styling is necessary, use a heat protection spray to shield both your natural hair and the extensions.
How to Look After Hair Extensions at Night
Protect your extensions while you sleep by securing them in a loose braid or ponytail, and a snag free scrunchie or bobble. Use a silk or satin pillowcase to reduce friction and minimise the risk of tangling.
Regular Maintenance
Schedule routine move-ups with your stylist to ensure the extensions are secure and in good condition. Trims and adjustments can be made as needed, keeping your hairstyle fresh and healthy.
Quality Products
Extensions aren’t cheap and you’ll want to take care of them by using products that are recommended by your stylist. Your stylist will advise tried and tested products that they know work for what you need. Take their advice and protect your investment; your extensions will thank you.
Don't Wash Excessively
Avoid washing your hair more than 3 times a week. This is to avoid stress on the extensions and avoid over styling and matting. For a quick freshen up - section off of the top section of your natural hair, and do gently shampoo over your bath or sink to save time and protect the condition of your extensions.
Don't Wash for 48 Hours After Your Extensions Are Fitted
As the adhesive/bonds are settling in your hair, it's best to avoid shampooing 2 days after your extensions have been applied - to avoid them slipping.
Be Gentle
The less you do the better. When washing, avoid scrubbing your scalp, gentle massaging motions are much better, this helps to avoid tangling and will help when brushing your hair when wet. Your hair is in its weakest state while wet, so the less tugging you can do, the better it will be for your hair. When towel drying, gently pat dry and squeeze out any excess water, rough rubbing motions on the ends of your hair and scalp will roughen up the cuticles of your hair and your hair will tangle and loose its shine.
Best Products for Hair Extension Care
Heat protector - Sebastian Trilliant, Wella EIMI Thermal Image
Oil - Wella Oil Reflections, Sebastian Dark Oil. Use this sparingly on the ends.
Shampoo and conditioner - Wella Fusion Shampoo and Conditioner. Use the matching mask once a week. Sebastian Dark Oil Shampoo, Conditioner and Mask.
Detangling brush - Wet Brush Original brush, Head Jog Straw brush
Shine spray - Wella EIMI Glam Mist
Hair Extension Aftercare: Your Questions Answered
Are hair extensions hard to maintain?
Not hard, but they do need a routine. Gentle washing, brushing from the ends up and a plait at night take a few extra minutes a day. The rest is a maintenance appointment every 6-8 weeks to keep the bonds secure.
How often should you wash hair extensions?
No more than three times a week. Washing more often puts stress on the bonds and makes matting more likely. For a quick refresh between washes, shampoo just the top section of your natural hair over the sink.
How long after getting extensions can you wash your hair?
Wait 48 hours. The bonds and adhesive are still settling, and washing too soon can make them slip.
How do you make hair extensions last longer?
Keep heat low and always use a heat protector, keep oils and conditioner away from the bonds, sleep on silk or satin with your hair plaited, use the products your stylist recommends, and never skip your 6-8 week move-up.
How often do hair extensions need maintenance?
Every 6-8 weeks for tape-in, nano-ring and weft extensions. Your stylist moves the bonds back up, tightens or replaces tapes, and trims so the blend stays seamless.
So with the right care routine, your tape, nano, or weave extensions can maintain their beauty and vitality, seamlessly blending with your natural hair. By understanding the unique needs of each method, you'll be well-equipped to enjoy stunning, long-lasting results.